COUNTY — The School District of Pickens County’s website was recently recognized by the Sunshine Review for a 2013 Sunny Award for government transparency.

The SDPC was the only school district in South Carolina to receive a perfect “A+” rating.

The Sunshine Review is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to government transparency, and the award, which honors the most transparent government websites in the nation, went to 250 government entities nationwide.

“We’re very proud of this award,” said Dr. Kelly Pew, district superintendent. “Our staff puts a high priority on making information open to the public, and it’s an honor for our website to be recognized. We’re constantly looking for ways to make sure our district is as transparent as possible.”

For the 2013 awards, Editors at Sunshine Review analyzed more than 1,000 qualifying government websites and graded each on a 10-point transparency checklist. Editors looked at content available on government websites against what should be provided. They sought information on items such as budgets, meetings, lobbying, financial audits, contracts, academic performance, public records and taxes. The winners of the Sunny Award all received an “A” grade during the extensive grading process.

“The Sunny Awards recognize governments that make transparency a priority. The winners of the Sunny Awards are cities, counties and school districts that proactively share the public information that empowers citizens and keeps government accountable to the people,” said Michael Barnhart, President of Sunshine Review. “We would like to congratulate the School District of Pickens County for being a champion for transparency and serving as a leader to every state and local government around the nation.”