History of RWA

Richard Winn Academy was founded in 1966 as an independent, co-educational day school.  Accredited by the South Carolina Independent School Association, the school began classes in the Cathcart and Flenniken Houses on North Congress Street in downtown Winnsboro and in 1970 moved to the present location on Old Chester Road. 

However, in March of 1984, a tornado ravaged parts of Fairfield County, including the academy campus. Although the tornado did much destruction to the physical structure, the Spirit of RWA thrived. Classes had to be held temporarily at White Oak’s Camp LaVida, Winnsboro’s Old Armory, and Washington Street Baptist Church’s Fellowship Building. Meanwhile, thanks to our loyal Richard Winn “family” and dedicated board members, spearheaded by Chairman Bob Westbrook, a much nicer facility was being rebuilt at the Old Chester Road location.

Today the 26 acre campus contains 35 classrooms; 2 computer labs and the Ally Douglas Computer Resource Room equipped with Smart Board technology; a library (The Dorothy Bailey Beach Memorial Library); a cafeteria; an art room; a fine arts room (The Ellen Nicholson Fine Arts Room); a gymnasium and stage; a well-equipped weight room; 2 state-of-the-art science classrooms and laboratories (The Charlie Beach Science Building); football, baseball, softball, and soccer fields; and a fenced in playground area. All classrooms are equipped with internet access and phone intercoms for daily announcements and emergencies.

The student body has grown from 118 students (1966-67) to over 460 students in grades K-3 through 12. In recent years, however, the enrollment has hovered around the 340 mark. For over four decades, this institution has provided excellence for the citizens of this region.

The academy offers students a broad comprehensive education with emphasis on preparation for college. A well-rounded sports program is provided and competition with other schools in SCISA is enjoyed.