Allendale-Fairfax High

Allendale-Fairfax High is a small, rural high school in Fairfax, SC, serving 252 students in grades 9-12 within the Allendale 01 school district.

This school faces significant challenges, most notably a chronic absenteeism rate of 45.3%—more than double the state average and far higher than nearby Barnwell High (28.5%) or Hampton County High School (32.0%). This attendance crisis is a major barrier to learning. The graduation rate of 73.3% also trails the state average of 86.7%, and the dropout rate of 5.2% is more than double the state norm. While the school spends a very high $24,197 per student—about 50-60% more than its neighbors—this investment has not translated into better outcomes, with state rankings remaining in the bottom 6-7% for several years.

There are some bright spots worth noting. In English 2, 72.74% of students are proficient, nearly matching the state average and outperforming Barnwell High. However, performance is highly inconsistent across subjects and years—Algebra 1 proficiency swung from 44% to 83% in just three years. There is also a stark gender gap: female students rank in the 28th percentile statewide, while male students rank in the 3rd percentile. For parents, this means the school has pockets of success but struggles with stability and consistency. The nearby Allendale High is actually a correctional facility with only 8 students, so this public school serves virtually all local families. If you're considering this school, it's important to understand that while resources are plentiful, attendance and consistent academic support will be critical factors in your child's success.