November 2024

Dear D7 Families and Community,


From the moment students and staff filled our hallways and classrooms in August, this year has been a remarkable journey. Our theme is “Going for Great.” It reflects our aspirations and commitment to creating an environment where every student can discover their unique gifts and find their place to shine. It reflects our belief in the strength of our community and the importance of collaboration. We want our families to feel this spirit and to be an integral part of our journey.

This year began with good news:


  • The percentage of our students scoring as proficient in ELA and math on SC Ready has consistently and dramatically increased over the last five years, which is one of our key long-range goals for academic achievement. D7 students scoring “meets or exceeds” grade-level proficiency grew 15.4 percentage points in ELA and 8.8 percentage points in math during this timeframe. This means our teachers are helping many of our students grow MORE than a typical year's worth of growth each school year.


  • Furthermore, we are proud of 14 students from Cleveland Academy, Drayton Mills, Pine Street, and McCracken who earned the maximum possible math score on SC Ready, of our 128 AP Scholars, of our 7 National Merit Scholarship program honorees, and of our 5 College Board National Recognition program honorees.  District 7 is proud to be home to the greatest number of National Merit semifinalists and AP Scholars in Spartanburg County!


  • We also made history by reaching a milestone our Board of Trustees, our district and school leaders, and our faculty and staff have strived towards together for more than two decades: With the release of the 2024 South Carolina School Report Cards in October, every D7 school received a rating of at least “average” or higher for the first time under the current report card system (since 2001). We are especially proud of our Cleveland Academy of Leadership for earning an "excellent" rating for the second year in a row (you may remember Cleveland made history last year with its first-time rating of "excellent"). For our schools with high rates of student transience – where many students are moving in and out frequently and teachers have less opportunity to help them excel academically – this progress is particularly meaningful.


  • Our students' kindergarten readiness has also increased from 30% in 2022 to 37.6% in 2024. Our goal is to reach 45% readiness by 2027. Efforts contributing to this goal include incorporating 4K classes within our elementary schools, increasing need-based 4k participation, aligning our 4K and 5K curriculum and creating teacher collaboration across these grade levels, and continued teacher training on our curriculum. Our partnership with Spartanburg Academic Movement (SAM) to bring 3K classrooms to our highest need schools will also play an important role in this effort going forward.


These gains result in large part from the consistent focus of our teachers and staff on key priority efforts district-wide over the last five years – from individualized, data-drive learning via iReady to implementation of our new D7 instructional framework to our focus on literacy. They also result from community partnerships that surround our students and families with critical supports and resources, which are continuing to expand thanks to the cradle-to-career efforts of SAM. While there is much work to be done, I hope you will join me in celebrating this moment. Let’s continue to set our sights high and stop at nothing to achieve our goals. I am so very proud of our students, teachers, and families for “Going For Great”! 


As we embrace this theme, I also want to acknowledge the challenges we've faced together, particularly during Hurricane Helene. When our schools shut down, we rallied as a community to feed families in need, ensuring that no one went hungry. While school is back to normal now, we recognize some families may still be struggling. It’s a reminder of how important it is that we support one another, especially in tough times.


Each of us plays a vital role in this journey. Together, we share a greater purpose. I look forward to wonderful experiences for everyone as we continue this school year—students, staff, parents, guardians, and community partners alike. We have so much good news to share, and I hope this issue of 7Headlines makes you proud to be part of our community!


With gratitude,


Jeff Stevens

Superintendent

Exciting News: New District and School Websites are LIVE!

ALSO: Download D7's First App – now available from the App Store or Google Play!

Have you seen our new district and school websites? Check them out at spartanburg7.org!


In our commitment to enhancing communication and engagement, we’ve launched not only new websites full of new features, information, and functionality; but also D7's first mobile app (available in the App Store and Google Play - see the QR code and link below).


What’s New?

  • Live Feed: A stream of updates and info (with notifications right to your phone for app users)
  • Let's Talk: A link that "floats" on each website homepage to keep the opportunity to get your questions answered or share feedback with our schools right at your fingertips
  • Integrated school calendars: Stay on top of all district and school events, now fully populated thanks to integration with our school's master calendars!
  • User-friendly design and structure: Access vital information quickly and easily
  • New Mobile App: Download our NEW app for news, events, rosters, staff directories, notifications, lunch menus and more! Search “Spartanburg District 7” in the app store or Google Play. Customize the app to populate your specific D7 schools and turn on notifications within the app to be sure you never miss new info.


Powered by Apptegy, a leader in K-12 communications, our new platform supports numerous languages and features enhanced digital accessibility. This means that everyone in our community can stay informed and engaged with what’s happening in D7!


Download the new D7 App Here:


Stay Connected on Social!



Don’t forget to follow us on social media for the latest announcements and offerings:


Thank you for your continued support of D7 and our schools! We can’t wait for you to explore our new online home!

Saluting Our Stars: Time to Honor District 7's Best

Viking Stadium cheered on the remarkable educators and support staff from District 7 during halftime at Spartanburg High School's October 25th football game! Each year, we recognize one outstanding support staff member and one exceptional educator from every school for their unwavering commitment to excellence. Our 2024 honorees' dedication and hard work make a lasting impact on our students, families, and staff. It was a joy to celebrate these outstanding individuals as their families proudly looked on from the sideline, showcasing the Viking spirit and community support that makes our district truly special!

Our Teachers of the Year reflect what it means to be “Going for Great” in Spartanburg School District 7! Congratulations to:


  • Dori Helms, Jesse Boyd Elementary
  • Macy Glisson Williams, Cleveland Academy
  • Christina Honeycutt, Drayton Mills Elementary
  • Lauren Hampton, E.P. Todd School
  • Aeriel Condra-Bogan, Mary H. Wright Elementary
  • Kevin Maloney, Carver Middle School
  • Tracy Kennendy, McCracken Middle School
  • Paul Karban, Spartanburg High School
  • Stacie Howell, Whitlock Flexible Learning Center
  • Lisa Garcia, McCarthy Teszler School


Our District 7 Teacher of the Year is from Pine Street Elementary School: Zonya Johnson! Ms. Johnson, a first-grade teacher, will represent District 7 as our nominee for the State Teacher of the Year program.

District 7’s Support Staff Members of the Year are dedicated professionals who positively impact our students, parents, and colleagues. Congratulations to:


  • Heather Carson, Jesse Boyd Elementary
  • Monica Beyer, Cleveland Academy of Leadership
  • Lakeisha Walker, Drayton Mills Elementary
  • Cole Quinn, E.P. Todd School
  • Patty Watson, Mary H. Wright Elementary
  • Melissa Craig, Pine Street Elementary
  • Jay Free, Carver Middle School
  • Kelly Hronesz, McCracken Middle School
  • Cheryl Means, Spartanburg High School
  • Lasonya Genovese, Whitlock Flexible Learning Center
  • Eric Alvarado and Kimitra Mullins, McCarthy Teszler School
  • Denise Coleman, Sarah Cooney, and Roslyn Allen Holmes, Transportation
  • Jordan Sherbert, District Support and Operations
  • Taliaferro (Mr. T) Woodfork, District Office



Help D7 Find MORE Great Educators!

Know a great educator who may be interested in joining TEAM7?


Please SHARE this information about our recruitment fair on December 7! We want to connect with the very best educators to show them why D7 is a GREAT place to make a positive impact.

CLICK HERE for info and to register

All schools will be present to help roll out the red carpet as we share info about current and future certified positions across the district. Come meet our superintendent and teachers and administrators from each of our schools, speak with Human Resources about benefits and compensation, and apply for jobs on the spot.


Thank you for helping us add to our team of professionals who love and support our students and families!


Hiring for ALL New Certified Positions:


  • Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 9 AM - Noon
  • Viking Arena at Spartanburg High School
  • Qualifications: 4-Year Degree and teaching certificate or plans to pursue an alternative route to certification
  • Bring: Your resume and references
  • Professional Attire


Register here to attend

Celebrating Academic Achievements Across D7

Seven National Merit Honorees Announced

Spartanburg High kicked off the school year with good news for the Class of 2025, as SEVEN Vikings were named National Merit Scholarship Program honorees. This high achievement highlights the exceptional talent and hard work of our students and the dedication of our educators.


To qualify as a National Merit Semifinalist, students must place among the highest scorers in their state on the Preliminary SAT Test (PSAT). Our Semifinalists—Steven Egge, Avery Gilley, Paul Jackson, Cameron Kendrick, and Paul Whisnant—are exemplary models of academic excellence. They join a distinguished group of 234 students across South Carolina’s public, private, and homeschool settings and represent the top 1% of the 1.3 million high school seniors from 21,000 high schools nationwide who competed for the honor.


We are also proud to recognize Jay Blanton and Nalani Manigault as National Merit Commended Students, an honor that places them among the top 3% of students nationally.


Dr. Andrew McMillian, Spartanburg High School principal, said, “We are deeply grateful to our dedicated educators and staff whose unwavering commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a love of learning laid the groundwork for these achievements. The educational foundation built in our elementary and middle schools supports our students throughout their high school career as they reach these remarkable milestones.”



As a point of pride, SHS has the most National Merit honorees in Spartanburg County!

Five Scholars Named by College Board National Recognition Program

Five outstanding SHS seniors have earned prestigious honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs, which includes African American Scholars, Hispanic Scholars, and Rural Scholars! These accolades are not just awards; they create vital connections for talented students from underrepresented backgrounds with colleges and scholarship programs, creating pathways to greater access and opportunity.


These exceptional students were recognized for their stellar performance on the PSAT, AP exams, and their impressive GPA. Join us in giving a huge round of applause to Katie Dogan, Mya Fleifel, Clayton Holmes, Nalani Manigault, and Chariya Moon!

Another Banner Year for Advanced Placement Accolades

Spartanburg High School is leading the way in South Carolina when it comes to AP Scholars. This year, an impressive 128 students earned AP Scholar Awards — the most in Spartanburg County!


A special shoutout goes to the three students who earned the AP Seminar and Research Certificate, the 15 who earned the AP Capstone Diploma, as well as our 57 AP Scholars with Distinction and 19 AP Scholars with Honors. This achievement reflects both the hard work of our students and also the incredible support and guidance from our teachers. All students earning these honors are listed below.

We love to celebrate our youngest Vikings!

Our elementary students take the SC Ready state assessment each year and 14 students from District 7 earned the maximum possible score in math for 2024! Help us cheer for these students from Cleveland Academy of Leadership, Drayton Mills Elementary, Pine Street Elementary, and McCracken Middle!

The incredible success of our students and the entire D7 community. We are truly “Going for Great” as we work together to inspire and empower future leaders! Congratulations to these students, their families and teachers for this extraordinary recognition of their academic abilities. Your hard work and dedication are inspiring, and you are shining examples of what can be achieved with perseverance and passion!

Watch our NEW Student-Created Viking News Broadcast

October 2024 Viking News TV Episode

November 2024 Viking News TV Episode

This year, Spartanburg High School proudly launched the all-new Viking News TV broadcast, and its first two episodes have already received rave reviews. Created by art and photography teacher Crissy Rennie, now in her third year at SHS, the show aims to boost school spirit and equip students with valuable skills for the future.


Inspired by her own experience as editor and executive producer of Tribe Talk at Wando High School, Ms. Rennie recalled the excitement surrounding each episode. “We competed statewide, and I remember how thrilled everyone was when our episodes aired,” she shared. “When I came to SHS and noticed we didn’t have a news show, I brought the idea to Mr. Adam Babcock, and he was immediately supportive.”


The Viking News TV team started with a small group for its debut episode but quickly gained traction. By the time their second episode aired in October, more students had joined the crew. The team meets monthly to plan each episode and gathers stories throughout the month, checking in with Ms. Rennie as they craft each segment. In the October episode, the team highlights SHS students’ reflections on Hispanic Heritage Month, provides sports updates, shares tips on writing professional emails, covers Senior College Day, polls students on their favorite Halloween movies, and introduces the school’s beloved custodial team.


Looking to the future, Ms. Rennie hopes the team will continue developing their skills, with students eventually editing their own stories. She envisions this initiative possibly growing into a Media Technology/Broadcast Journalism course, offering even more opportunities for students interested in the field. For now, the team is dedicated to telling meaningful stories that connect and inspire the Viking community.


Catch the show and celebrate our talented Viking News team!


Fall 2024 Viking News TV Team


News Anchor: Marianna Saad

Sports Anchor: Karsyn Painter

Interviewer: Finley Sloan

Executive Producer: Sam Foster

Camera Crew: Brianna Drummond, Jeremiah Ross, Savannah Ferguson, Crissy Rennie

Editor: Crissy Rennie

It's Audition Time: Shrek The Musical is Coming to D7

It's only Fall, but the stage is already set for Spring Musical Season in District 7! Musicals have been part of the life of our schools for a long time. We are excited to bring everyone's favorite ogre to our Fine Arts Center stage this year. Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure that brings all the film's beloved characters to the stage and proves there's more to the story than meets the ears.


Shrek offers a treasure trove of creative opportunities—think dazzling costumes, whimsical sets, and even a fire-breathing dragon! This irreverently fun show is perfect for the whole family and reminds us all that beauty is truly "in the eye of the ogre".


Whether you’re a singer or a non-singer, there are roles for students of all ages. So, dust off your dancing shoes and join us for a magical journey that’s sure to delight and entertain...Let the countdown to Shrek The Musical begin!


Auditions will be held in December for students in 5K -5th grades and grades 6-12.


Click here for audition information for students in grades 5K-5



Click here for audition information for students in grades 6-12.

FREE Tutoring Assistance for D7 Students

We’re excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership between Spartanburg School District 7 and Varsity Tutors for Schools! This collaboration equips our students with an array of valuable learning resources, including engaging live classes and personalized chat tutoring from algebra to writing to ACT/SAT Prep, free of charge. With these tools at their fingertips, students can enhance their academic experience like never before.


D7 students can now enjoy 24/7, real-time tutoring in a wide range of subjects, provided in either English or Spanish. Whether it’s homework help, test preparation, or even parent coaching, dedicated tutors are just a click away. Private tutoring is also available at a discounted rate for D7 students through Varsity Tutors.


With these exciting resources, we’re committed to ensuring that every student in our district has the support they need to succeed. Explore these opportunities today and watch your child thrive.

Explore Varsity Tutors for D7 Here
Chartwells Turns Lunchtime into a Culinary Adventure!

D7's food service partner, Chartwells K12, is taking school lunches to new heights with their Global Eats program! Recently, students at McCracken Middle School were treated to a delicious Italian feast, offering dishes like Arrabbiata Chicken, Penne Pasta with Parmesan & Parsley, Eggplant Caponata, and Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables. Students embraced the chance to step outside their culinary comfort zones and savor new flavors.


Meanwhile, Spartanburg High School enjoyed a flavorful taste of China, featuring Sticky Soy Ginger Chicken, Steamed Rice, Garlic Green Beans, and Roasted Sesame Carrots. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with students eager to try something new!


Global Eats, crafted by Chartwells chefs and dietitians with input from students, transforms lunchtime into a worldly adventure. This innovative program not only introduces students to diverse cuisines but also fosters camaraderie as they share meals and learn about different cultures together.


We’re thrilled to see the enthusiasm for trying new foods and can’t wait for what’s next in this culinary journey! Check out the photos below capturing the excitement of these events, and be sure to ask YOUR student what part of the world they are exploring as Global Eats comes to their school!

Student Voices from Norse News

From Chalkboards to Chatbots: How AI is Transforming the Classroom Experience

by Andy Ratteree, Norse News Co-Editor-in-Chief


In recent years the expansion and growth of artificial intelligence (AI) has skyrocketed for both economic and commercial use. With the rise of popular AI chatbot, Chat GPT, schools and education systems began to shut down the use of all AI. But now they’re changing their minds.


Read the full story and exolore more student voices here...

D7 In The News

Sophomore Riley Vaughn Shines on the World Stage for Team USA!

Riley Vaughn represents TEAM USA in Bahrain

Riley Vaughn, a sophomore at SHS, has been making waves on the global stage—competing for Team USA in Track and Field in Bahrain! And get this: Riley finished 7th in the WORLD in the Discus Throw and 8th in the WORLD in the Shot Put! What an incredible achievement! Huge shoutout to Riley for representing SHS and Team USA with such determination and talent. We’re so proud of you!

Daniel Morgan Technology Center Hosts Community Career Family Day

Your Carolina recently featured Daniel Morgan Technology Center Director Nikki Honeycutt and Career Development Specialist Delilah Goode to talk about their first "Community Career Family Day" open house, which took place November 7 . The event combined the fun of a school carnival with a focus on career and technical education (CTE), breaking down outdated stereotypes and highlighting the vast opportunities in today's vocational training. Daniel Morgan offers 17 diverse career programs, dual enrollment options, industry certifications, and hands-on learning experiences. With technical skills in high demand, the event drew approximately 1,000 people, included more than 50 local employers and vendors, and gave families an exciting glimpse into hundreds of fulfilling career paths!

Spartanburg High School's Lady Viking Softball Field Named Field of the Year

During our November Board of Trustees meeting, we celebrated an achievement that brings honor to District 7 and elevates the experience for our student-athletes. This year, Spartanburg High School’s Lady Viking Softball Field was named Field of the Year by SportsField Management — a recognition that highlights the very best in athletic field care and management.


This accomplishment was prominently featured in the October issue of SportsField Management magazine, with a cover story and feature article showcasing this outstanding facility.


The honor is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and expertise of our grounds and facilities teams. Led by Stephen Russell, our District Support and Operations Director, and Matt Arms, our Grounds Superintendent, the team’s commitment to excellence is evident in every detail. We extend our gratitude to Matt Arms and his team — Austin Dill, Jesse Bowers, Vern Sims, and Jay Wooten — for their efforts in maintaining the field to an exceptional standard.


Our student-athletes are fortunate to play on one of the finest fields in the country, and this recognition underscores our district’s unwavering commitment to providing the very best for our students. Congratulations to everyone who made this achievement possible!

Scene Around Seven

Super Selfies are BACK

The assignment from D7's Communications Team: "Send some selfies from your Tuesday/Thursday school visits!"


Superintendent Stevens is always excited to connect with our students and be an active part of the school experience! Whether cheering from the sidelines at a game, engaging with students in the classroom, walking the hallways, or attending school events, his presence is a constant reminder of our commitment to supporting every student as we strive for greatness, together.

New Carver/McCracken Tradition Inspires Future Vikings

This fall, a thrilling new tradition kicked off as Carver Middle and McCracken Middle School faced off in the inaugural "Battle for the Brag" football game at Viking Stadium, home of the Spartanburg High School Vikings! This annual event will alternate years, allowing both middle schools to experience the pride of using the Viking football team's locker room.


Playing on their future home field, our Eagles and Wildcats can imagine the greatness that awaits them during their high school years. Fans from both schools united on the home side to cheer on our future Vikings.


Our Carver Wildcats claimed this year's victory, earning the right to see their t-shirt proudly worn by the losing team’s principal throughout the following school day. To capture the spirit of the game, we published the video below, which includes SHS head football coach Mark Hodge sharing his vision for how D7's football program goes beyond the game to develop not only great football players but to also shape well-rounded individuals.



Through the Vikings "Refined" program, our coaches and community volunteers focus on building character and instilling qualities that prepare players for success in all areas of life. This new tradition is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of teamwork, community, and the bright future that lies ahead for all our students!

Celebrating Our Veterans

It was a joy for our schools to recognize the importance of serving our country as D7 celebrated Veteran's Day. A sense of gratefulness filled the air as schools reflected through song, dance and verse on the continuous courage, strength and sacrifice by veterans to maintain our freedom. Many family members, employees, and community guests were honored across the district during our programs. What wonderful mentors for each and every one of us they are.

The Bolden Scholars from Cleveland Academy are in full effect with Landform Models and Reading Exploration! Through reading and hands-on model-building, students investigated how landforms are distributed globally. They learned to recognize patterns in physical features, climates, and biomes, while connecting their reading to real-world geography. Bravo, Tigers!

November 8th was National STEM day and our youngest learners from the Franklin School embraced the spirit of innovation with hands-on activities that sparked creativity and curiosity. These early experiences in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are shaping the innovators and award winners of tomorrow, and could be the start of something amazing! 

This is the spirit of #GoingForGreat in action! E.P. Todd students created heartfelt letters of appreciation, which were delivered to a team of linemen from Louisiana working hard to restore power in the Upstate following Hurricane Helene. These letters surely brightened their day and touched their hearts. Way to spread kindness and gratitude, Todd Tigers! 

We are grateful for our amazing community partners who help inspire and uplift our young learners! Athletes from Wofford College joined in on the fun during Pine Street Elementary's Read-A-Thon, adding extra cheer and excitement to the event. Their enthusiasm and support are helping foster a love for reading and learning in our students.

Huge congratulations to our Carver Middle School Cheerleaders! They brought home 2nd place in their FIRST EVER competition. We couldn’t be prouder of their hard work, dedication, and team spirit. Let’s keep cheering them on—this is just the beginning!

McCracken spirit is always shining, especially when it’s time to show up for important causes and school pride! MMS students rocked themed days like Stand Up to Breast Cancer and showed their competitive fire for the Dorman rivalry. Whether supporting a cause or rallying behind their team, McCracken’s spirit is always front and center.

Fall is here, and so are the Special Olympics at McCarthy Teszler School! A huge round of applause to all the athletes who competed in the recent tennis event — your dedication, talent, and sportsmanship truly inspire us all! A special thank you to the amazing staff members who made this event a reality. Your support and care create an unforgettable experience for these athletes.

What should you be for Halloween at school? Why, a book character, of course...and Jesse Boyd Elementary's Book Character Dress-Up Day was an absolute hit! Students came to school dressed as their favorite characters, bringing stories to life with creativity and flair. The day was packed with imagination, inspiration, and a true love for reading. Way to go, Bulldogs— your creativity is off the charts! 

Congratulations to 25 SHS students and 23 McCracken students who auditioned for and were selected for the 2024 SC Region One Honors Orchestras! Competing against talented musicians from Spartanburg, Laurens, and York counties for a limited number of spots, these students earned their place in the upcoming Honors Orchestra Weekend on November 22-23 at Chesnee High School. This is the largest group from D7 in two decades to be chosen for this prestigious event Way to go!

STeacher Sponsors: Helen Tipton and Jeff Kuntz

  • Maya Abouelenein, violin (11)
  • Jayden Band, cello (12)
  • Madysen Bedenbaugh, cello (9)
  • Molly Bryant, viola (11)
  • Sebastian Cartwright, bass (11)
  • Marissa Correll, violin (12)
  • Anna Crittenden, violin (9)
  • Angelique Farmer, violin (10)
  • Zoe Fowler, cello (10)
  • Ella Hayes, violin (9)
  • Barrett Hawkins, viola (9)
  • Ace Johnson, bass (12), principal
  • Bridge Keller, cello (9)
  • Sophia Keller, viola (9)
  • Lillie Kimbrell, cello (9)
  • Joey Lesley, violin (10)
  • Nalani Manigault, viola (12)
  • Sydney Mullman (11)
  • Wade Neely, viola alternate (11)
  • Zoe O’Brien, violin (9)
  • Ella Padgett, viola (9)
  • Bennett Salley, bass (9)
  • Payten Shell, viola (10)
  • Sam Strickland, violin (9)
  • Graysen Voeller, violin (9)

McCracken Teacher Sponsors: Jennifer Diehn and Allison Key

Save The Date

November

19

Progress Reports

November

27-29

Thanksgiving Holidays

Download The 2024-25 Calendar
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Spartanburg School District 7

610 Dupre Drive

Spartanburg, SC 29307

P: 864.594.4400

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