Greenville County Schools Announces New Student Assignment Changes
Greenville, South Carolina – In a significant move to address its growing student population, Greenville County Schools (GCS) is planning to implement changes to student assignment boundaries. This update comes as part of the preparations for the upcoming Reedy Laurel Elementary School, which is set to open its doors in August 2025.
Who Is Affected
The proposed changes will impact roughly 900 students across various schools. Out of these, approximately 600 students are expected to be assigned to Reedy Laurel Elementary. The district’s recommendations outline 24 boundary changes spanning elementary, middle, and high school levels.
What Are the Changes
As part of the plan, students from Mauldin Elementary, Pelham Road Elementary, and Sara Collins Elementary will be reassigned to the new school. The objective is to create a better distribution of students among schools, considering current capacities and transportation distances. Some students may be reassigned from areas that do not connect to a school’s main attendance area, termed as “attendance islands”.
Where Will the Changes Occur
The changes will specifically affect assignments at Reedy Laurel Elementary, located at 61 Isbell Lane. Once it opens, the school will initially serve grades K5 through second grade, gradually expanding to include all six grades through fifth by the 2028-29 academic year. Additionally, students at Reedy Laurel Elementary will transition to Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle, Beck International Academy, J.L. Mann High Academy, and Southside High.
When Will These Changes Take Effect
The plan for modifying the assignment boundaries is still in progress. Families of affected students will receive direct notifications from the district. Public meetings to discuss the proposed changes are scheduled, providing a forum for community input. GCS administration plans to submit a final plan to the Committee of the Whole on October 8, with the district’s Board of Trustees expected to review the plan on October 22.
Why Are the Changes Necessary
Tim Waller, director of media relations for GCS, stated that attendance areas are reviewed on an as-needed basis. Factors affecting these decisions include the creation of new schools and expansions of existing facilities. The establishment of Reedy Laurel Elementary aims to alleviate overcrowding in current schools and ensure more balanced student populations across the district.
Individual Considerations
The Special Education Department within GCS will continue to evaluate individual assignments for students with disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate educational placements. Parents and guardians with questions regarding the changes can reach out via email to planning@greenville.k12.sc.us by September 24.
Conclusion
As Greenville County Schools prepares for these changes, community engagement and parental feedback will play crucial roles in shaping the final boundaries. This restructuring illustrates the district’s commitment to accommodating its growing student population while maintaining quality education and access to facilities.
