Sanford is home to three high schools: Lee County High School, Lee Early College on CCCC's campus, and Southern Lee High School. Lee County High School, home of the yellow jackets, is also locally known as Lee Senior. Southern Lee High School, home of the Cavaliers, opened its doors during the 2005–2006 school year. Lee Early College also opened for the first time during the 2005–2006 school year. In the program, students attend classes at the Lee County campus of Central Carolina Community College, and within a 4 to 5 year time frame earn not only a high school diploma, but an associate degree as well. Attending Lee Early College requires an application process.