Dorchester School District Four (DD4), located in the heart of St. George, South Carolina, proudly serves approximately 2,200 students across six schools, including three elementary schools, one middle school, one high school, and one alternative education center. With a mission of "Empowering Minds, Shaping Futures,” DD4 is dedicated to academic excellence, strong character development, and meaningful community partnerships.

Our county seat, St. George, is celebrated as “the town of friendly people.”

Dorchester School District 4 is small, but powerful.

Woodland High School - Home of the Wolverines, Woodland is DD4's only High School, serves students from the 9th through the 12th grades. WHS is located in the town of Dorchester, SC.

Woodland Middle School - Home of the Wolves, Woodland Middle School is a brand new school as of 2024. WMS is the first new school built in DD4 in 23 years. Woodland Middle School serves students from grades 6th - 8th and is DD4's only Middle School. WMS is located in the town of Dorchester, SC.

Williams Memorial Elementary School - Home of the Tigers, WMES is DD4's largest elementary school and serves students from Pre-K through 5th Grade. WMES is located in the town of St. George, SC.

Harleyville Elementary School - Home of the Dolphins, HES is another thriving elementary school in DD4 serving students from Pre-K through 5th grade. HES is located in Harleyville, SC.

Clay Hill Elementary School - Home of the Eagles, CHES is DD4's smallest elementary school and serves students from Pre-K through 5th Grade. CHES is located in Ridgeville, SC.

Odyssey Education Center - Home of the Owls, OEC is DD4's alternative school and serves students from 6th grade through 12th grade. OEC is located in Harleyville, SC.

At every level, DD4 is working to equip students with the World Class Skills outlined in the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate, emphasizing high-quality instruction, enhanced STEM opportunities, and expanded career and technical education.

STEM education is a district-wide priority. Elementary students explore science and technology through scheduled activities and clubs, while middle and high school students engage in robotics, Project Lead the Way, and a one-to-one digital learning initiative. High school students may also attend the Dorchester County Career School to explore a range of career paths. DD4 also utilizes VirtualSC, a rigorous, state-backed platform offering initial credit, credit recovery, and test preparation courses for ACT/SAT success. DD4 boasts an 86.1% graduation rate which exceeds the state average.

Athletics and physical development are also central to student life in DD4. The district offers a rich athletic program at both the middle and high school levels, providing opportunities in sports such as football, basketball, track, softball, baseball, volleyball, and more. At the elementary level, students can get active and build foundational teamwork skills through Youth Soccer and Youth Basketball programs, fostering school spirit and physical wellness from an early age.

Beyond academics, DD4 emphasizes strong character. Monthly student recognition and counselor-led classroom sessions reinforce integrity, responsibility, and leadership. At the high school level, students earn Work Ethic Certificates through a program with the Dorchester County Economic Development Organization, helping prepare them for life after graduation.

The district also places a strong emphasis on student attendance, recognizing that being present is essential for learning. DD4 incorporates several attendance initiatives to encourage and reward students who consistently come to school by incorporating special recognition events to motivate students and families alike.

DD4 values and supports its staff just as strongly. The "Everyday Hero" Recognition Program honors employees monthly for outstanding dedication. Aspiring school leaders benefit from the Assistant Principal Academy, and new educators receive monthly in-service training with guidance from experienced professionals.

What truly sets DD4 apart is its deep-rooted connection to the community. Many of its educators, staff, and administrators are proud alumni who have returned “home” to serve the very schools that shaped them. This shared commitment to giving back helps foster a unique culture of pride, unity, and belonging throughout the district. With strong community partnerships, a commitment to innovation, and a focus on nurturing the whole child, Dorchester School District Four continues to build a future where every student has the tools to thrive.

Our Motto

Empowering Minds, Shaping Futures

Mission Statement

The Mission of Dorchester School District Four is to develop life-long learners who  will have a positive impact  on our  global world.

Our Vision

The vision of Dorchester School District Four is to be an exemplary district where all students reach their maximum potential with the support of the district, home, and community.

Our Beliefs

We believe that students learn when…
the district, parents, and community support the education process 
and are committed to continuous improvement;
effective instruction is provided by highly qualified teachers; and 
a nurturing and secure learning environment is maintained.