Greenville County Plans School Boundary Changes to Support New Elementary School
Greenville, South Carolina – Greenville County Schools (GCS) is moving forward with a proposal to adjust student assignment boundaries across the district in preparation for the new Reedy Laurel Elementary School. This initiative includes a total of 24 boundary changes affecting elementary, middle, and high schools, specifically targeting approximately 900 students in these adjustments.
According to district officials, approximately 600 students will be reassigned to the new elementary school once it opens in August 2025. The changes come as a response to the growing student population in the area, necessitating the creation of additional educational facilities.
Boundary Changes Overview
The proposed boundary revisions will impact students from Mauldin Elementary, Pelham Road Elementary, and Sara Collins Elementary, who will be reassigned to Reedy Laurel Elementary. The new school, located at 61 Isbell Lane, will initially accommodate students in grades K5 through second. The district intends to gradually expand the school by adding one grade each academic year until it serves grades K5 through fifth by the 2028-29 school year.
Furthermore, students at Reedy Laurel will transition to either Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle, Beck International Academy, J.L. Mann High Academy, or Southside High School as they progress in their education, as outlined in the district’s recommended assignment plan.
Rationale Behind Changes
Tim Waller, the director of media relations for GCS, emphasized that attendance areas are evaluated periodically. Modifications are typically warranted in cases such as the establishment of a new school, like Reedy Laurel Elementary, or when existing facilities are expanded. The current proposal also seeks to rectify 18 “attendance islands”, or areas affiliated with schools that are not connected to their primary attendance zones, a situation that affects a number of students currently.
The adjustments are designed to enhance building capacity and reduce transportation distances, ensuring all students have fair access to educational resources. Notably, some proposed changes involve areas with zero GCS students at present, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to optimizing school assignments throughout the district.
Special Education and Community Involvement
For students with disabilities, the GCS Special Education Department will continue to tailor individual assignments, ensuring those students receive the necessary support. District officials have assured families that they will be notified directly regarding how these boundary changes will affect their children.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to reach out with questions or concerns via email at planning@greenville.k12.sc.us by September 24. Additionally, GCS plans to host public meetings related to the boundary changes, where families can offer their input and gain further clarity on the proposed plans.
Next Steps in the Process
GCS administration is set to gather community feedback to refine the initial plan further. The final recommendations are due to be presented to the Committee of the Whole on October 8, with the district’s Board of Trustees expected to conduct a review of the changes on October 22.
As Greenville County Schools prepares for this significant transition in student assignment boundaries, the community is reminded of the importance of involvement in shaping the educational landscape for future generations.
