Greenville County Schools Proposes Boundary Changes for New Elementary School
In Greenville County, the School District has announced plans to change student assignment boundaries in order to accommodate the anticipated opening of the new Reedy Laurel Elementary School. This proposal, which includes 24 changes across elementary, middle, and high school levels, is expected to impact around 900 students. Of these, about 600 students will be assigned to the new elementary school, located at 61 Isbell Lane.
Key Details of the Proposed Changes
As the district’s director of media relations, Tim Waller, explained, the adjustments to school boundaries are undertaken as needed, typically in response to factors such as the opening of new facilities or expansions of existing schools. The impending Reedy Laurel Elementary School aims to alleviate overcrowding and accommodate the growing student population in the district.
The recommended changes will involve reallocating students from three current schools: Mauldin Elementary, Pelham Road Elementary, and Sara Collins Elementary. When Reedy Laurel is set to open in August 2025, it will initially serve students from grades K5 through second.
Future Grade Assignments
Progressively, the school plans to introduce an additional grade each academic year until it is fully populated with students from K5 to fifth grade by the 2028-29 school year. Upon entering the fourth and fifth grades, students at Reedy Laurel Elementary will further transition to either Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School, Beck International Academy, J.L. Mann High Academy, or Southside High School, as outlined in the recommended assignment plan.
Addressing Attendance Islands
The proposed changes also aim to eliminate 18 “attendance islands” – specific geographic areas that are not connected to any school’s main attendance area. Beyond reassignment, the district is looking to manage building capacity and reduce transportation distances for students commuting to their schools.
Impact on Special Education Students
The Special Education Department of GCS will continue to make individual assignments for students with disabilities, ensuring that their needs are met amid the boundary changes. It is also noted that some changes may involve areas currently housing zero GCS students.
Communication with Affected Families
Families whose students will be impacted by the proposed school boundary changes will receive direct notifications from the district. Parents and guardians are encouraged to reach out to GCS with questions by emailing planning@greenville.k12.sc.us before September 24.
Public Engagement and Final Approval
To address community concerns and gather public opinion, Greenville County Schools will be hosting a series of meetings about these assignment changes. Input from these sessions will be crucial in crafting the final boundary plan, which will be presented to the Committee of the Whole on October 8. Following this, the district’s Board of Trustees is expected to conduct a review on October 22.
For further updates and details, families are advised to keep an eye on GCS communications.
