Greenville, S.C. – Closing of Greenville Early College
In an impactful decision, Greenville County Schools announced that the Greenville Early College will close at the end of this school year. This initiative, which opened in 2015, was dedicated to helping first-generation college students achieve success in their education. However, school officials cited a significant decline in enrollment as the main reason for the closure, leaving many parents and students concerned about the future.
Enrollment Decline
The school currently has only 107 students enrolled, and the district acknowledges that the number has been steadily decreasing over the past few years. Parents, like Shenetta Brewster, expressed their frustration, questioning why they weren’t given a chance to be part of the conversation leading to this decision. Brewster voiced her concerns, saying, “We are paying tax dollars to see our schools improve, to see us have the schools that we want.” Many parents feel their children are at risk of being underserved in larger public school environments.
Future Opportunities
While Greenville Early College is set to close, the district assures that the programs it offered will still be available. A spokesperson for the district, Tim Waller, stated that the program is relocating to three high schools: Berea High, Southside High, and Carolina High. This move aims to give more students access to the programs that were previously exclusive to Greenville Early College. Waller emphasized that the new arrangement will include the same courses but will also offer “more opportunities,” such as related arts, athletics, and after-school clubs that students didn’t have before.
Support for Students
Current parents are hopeful that their children will continue to receive personalized attention. One parent praised the thorough support provided by the teachers, especially in assisting students with learning disabilities. Brewster expressed concern that transitioning to larger schools could lead to challenges like bullying or inadequate support for her child. However, the district reassured families that small class sizes and personalized support will remain a priority.
Conclusion
As Greenville Early College prepares to close its doors at the end of this school year, the emphasis remains on providing students with the tools they need to succeed in their educational journey. The upcoming changes aim to foster a balanced environment while expanding opportunities for a broader range of students in the district.
