St. James High School

10800 South Carolina 707

School District

Horry County Schools
Grade

9-12
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:15
Type

public

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by parent on March 04, 2025

We moved here 4 years ago from upstate NY. As far as academics St James has well exceeded the performance of my sons previous school. Most of his teachers have been good with their communication keeping me apprised of what's going on. However I did have issues with one teacher in particular and when I made my displeasure known it was like it fell on deaf ears.I am also having a lot of trouble with bullying and the administration doesn't seem to care! Instead when my son has finally had enough and starts telling the bullies where to go he gets suspended for swearing! Nothing is done to the bully! Are you kidding me?! Maybe he wouldn't have lost his $h!t if something was being done!I just sent another email to one of the assistant principals today so we'll see what happens. If they don't address this situation I will be looking to escalate ny complaint.I wouldn't discount St James if your looking for a school however you will need to be diligent as a parent.
Submitted by parent on August 10, 2024

St James have amazing teachers, children are engaged and their athletic program is outstanding.
Submitted by parent on June 04, 2024

This school is horrible. A lot of the teachers are passive aggressive towards the kids. The staff does absolutely nothing about bullying. The students emotional and psychological well being is of no importance whatsoever. The racism and support of it is beyond disappointing and disgusting.They do have great teams and education opportunities I must say. But, that's it.
Submitted by other on June 05, 2023

As a concerned parent, I feel compelled to share my deeply frustrating and disheartening experience with St. James High School. Despite its reputation as an institution of learning, I have encountered an alarming lack of communication and limited teacher accountability that has left me deeply disappointed and concerned for my child's education.One of the most glaring issues I have encountered at St. James High School is the abysmal level of communication between the school and parents. It is as if the administration operates within its own bubble, oblivious to the concerns and inquiries of the families entrusting their children's education to their care. Phone calls and emails often go unanswered for days, if not weeks, leaving parents in a constant state of uncertainty and frustration.When attempting to address issues with individual teachers, the lack of accountability becomes even more apparent. My attempts to have meaningful conversations with teachers about my child's progress, academic challenges, or even simple questions about assignments have been met with apathy and indifference. It seems that teachers at St. James High School are reluctant to engage in constructive dialogue with parents, failing to understand that collaboration between home and school is essential for a student's success.Moreover, the limited teacher accountability at St. James High School is disconcerting. When problems arise, teachers often deflect responsibility or are quick to dismiss legitimate concerns. It is as if they are immune to any form of critique, and any attempts to hold them accountable are met with defensiveness and resistance. This lack of accountability not only hampers the growth and development of our children but also fosters an environment of mediocrity, where excellence and improvement take a back seat.Furthermore, the school's lackluster response to addressing these issues is deeply concerning. Despite numerous complaints from parents and an apparent awareness of the communication and accountability problems, the administration seems content with maintaining the status quo. Their failure to take decisive action and implement necessary changes demonstrates a lack of dedication to the well-being and academic success of the students.
Submitted by student on March 08, 2022

i’ve been a student here since fourth grade and now i’m graduating high-school soon and the staff here is rude
Submitted by parent on February 02, 2020

I said what I said in the 2 question, I could put the same statement for each question.
Submitted by parent on December 13, 2019

Have 4 kids that have gone through St James HS and by far the best choice we could of made for our kids. Principle is one the best and does what he can to make every student feel important. Attends as much extra curricular activities as he can. Teachers will do what it takes to help the students succeed after they leave the school. Sports programs are getting better each year. Best school system in Horry County from start to finish
Submitted by parent on December 05, 2017

Worst experience ever. Assistant principal told me my daughter didn't need college prep classes because she would never go.
Submitted by parent on September 15, 2017

Unless you are connected to the administration in some way, you had better steer clear of those who are. Unfortunately for the ones who are connected, they will go out into the real world completely unprepared. Life outside the "bubble of political protection" will be harsh. Teachers are kept in fear of doing what's right, by the iron hand of the district. Most teachers seem to have no passion. Just punching the clock until retirement. Emphasis is heavy on the sports teams, which are terrible. Sexual harassment is commonplace for the female students to experience. Sexual promiscuity is high, teenage pregnancy is common. Drug and alcohol use is overlooked, if the parents are in the right groups. Student body statistics are manipulated to give the appearance of excellence. If you are looking for the high school experience that you feel you child is entitled to... due to who you are and who you know... this is the place for you.
Submitted by student on August 18, 2015

The teachers and staff really care about the students and you learn a lot! Our school spirit is also fantastic!
Submitted by student on May 28, 2015

Everthing about this school is terrible, the food is bad, the teachers are bad, i went to 5 different high schools in SC and this one was by far the worst out of all of them, not a single staff member cared when i started to lose interest in school and even less cared when i dropped out
Submitted by parent on July 08, 2013

I can't say enough about this high school. The staff and teachers are wonderful - all lead by Mr Vann Pennell. So many of them go above and beyond to ensure these students emulate their shark mascot - sharks always move forward never back.