About Us

Our History

The TWO Academies began in August of 2004 with 6th Grade. In 2005 it added the 7th grade.  Eighth grade was added in 2006-2007.  The TWO Academies is currently located in the "D" Hallway at Dent Middle School. The lead teacher's office is also located on this hallway. 

What is TWO Academies?

TWO Academies is a magnet program that focuses on the needs of the whole child and reduces typical middle school adolescent pressures within a single-gender environment. In separate core classes, boys and girls experience a rich, rigorous education in which maximizing the potential of each child is the goal. Parents, teachers, and community members work in partnership to deliver the best middle school experience. We use brain-based gender research to support our instructional strategies, learning activities, classroom management as well as to support the whole child. Teachers in our program are trained in gender research and strategies to provide environments where each student can thrive. 

Why Choose TWO Academies?

We help each child become the best version of themselves.  We accomplish this by helping students build their confidence in their academic abilities, giving them a sense of belonging to a community, and helping to provide them with opportunities to use their new skills to reach out and make a difference in their community and their world.  By providing rigorous, honors-level, carefully designed curricula that meet the specific social and emotional needs of boys or girls, our program fosters increased engagement and participation. Students often feel more at ease expressing themselves, taking academic risks, and contributing to class discussions without the distractions commonly found in a co-ed environment. In addition, students who meet academic requirements also have the opportunity to take honors and accelerated math courses within the TLC environment, allowing them to challenge themselves while receiving targeted support. Our program creates a family atmosphere so students feel they have a place to belong and are supported. Through TWO Academies, our students build strong support networks and meaningful friendships, encouraging collaboration and focused learning. Overall, Two Academies empowers students to thrive both academically and socially, helping them develop a strong sense of identity, purpose, and potential.

Who Can Apply?

Any 5th, 6th, or 7th-grade student who resides in Richland District Two who meets the criteria to be a part of the program, which includes an interview and collaboration activity, a writing sample, grades, teacher recommendations, and test scores. The interview portion of the evaluation is based on a student’s interests and commitment to scholastic excellence.  Academic ability is evaluated by a combination of information about grades, test scores, teacher recommendations, and a writing sample. Scores of Met Expectations are recommended on the SCPASS tests and SC Ready or equivalent MAP Scores. Parents must also be able to provide transportation for the student if he or she is not zoned for Dent.