Pine Street Elementary principal Dennis Regnier stands alongside members of the cast Ed Helms and Rhiannon Giddens during filming for An Ode to Mary Jo, which brought a full feature-film production to his campus November 3–4. The project offered staff a behind-the-scenes look at the movie industry while shining a spotlight on Spartanburg and District 7 on a national stage.

Roll Cameras! Pine Street Steps Into the Spotlight for Feature Film

Last fall, a quiet stretch of Boyd Street outside Pine Street Elementary suddenly transformed into something straight out of Hollywood. Production trucks rolled in. Crew members moved lighting rigs and cameras across campus. And yes — rumors began swirling online that actor Ed Helms had been spotted on school grounds.

District 7 families started buzzing on Facebook.

But we had to keep a secret.

In November, Pine Street Elementary became the filming location for scenes in An Ode to Mary Jo, an upcoming independent feature film starring Ed Helms (The Office, The Hangover), Rhiannon Giddens and Jason Isbell — three acclaimed performers whose careers span film, television and Grammy-winning music.

It marked the first time a feature-length film had ever been shot inside a District 7 school.

While Spartanburg High School once served as the backdrop for BMW’s iconic 2011 Super Bowl commercial promoting the locally-built X3, this production brought an entirely new level of scale — and excitement — to our community.

And now, at last, we can finally talk about it.

A Story Rooted in the Working Class

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Justin Liberman, An Ode to Mary Jo follows a single mother navigating the most pivotal day of her life — juggling birthday plans for her nine-year-old daughter, growing tension with her teenage son and the mystery of a missing ex-husband while searching for a better future.

Liberman says Spartanburg proved to be the perfect backdrop. “We were looking for a real-life Anytown, USA feel,” he explained. “Something that felt authentic — a town with history, a strong working-class identity and people who really care about where they live.”

Originally written for New York’s Hudson Valley, the script shifted south after producers scouted locations across South Carolina and fell in love with the Upstate. Their search led them to Spartanburg — and eventually, to Pine Street Elementary, with its striking architecture and authentic school setting. Spartanburg offered exactly what the filmmakers were seeking: a community with history, character and heart — and a campus whose beautiful design helped bring the story to life on screen.

Filming Comes to Pine Street

Liberman’s team contacted District 7 in early October 2025 to see if Pine Street could serve as the setting for a pivotal scene in which Mary Jo interviews for a job.

Principal Dennis Regnier’s office became the filming location, along with outdoor shots along Boyd Street.

Over two full days — November 3 and 4 — a crew of more than 30 people worked across campus, supported by production vans, trucks and equipment vehicles. Set-up began on the Friday evening before.

And in true District 7 fashion, Pine Street even gained a movie extra.

Principal Regnier himself appears in the film.

Behind the scenes in Pine Street Elementary’s front entrance, where film crews transformed a familiar hallway into a movie set during November’s on-campus shoot for An Ode to Mary Jo.

A look inside Principal Dennis Regnier’s office — temporarily reimagined for the film — where careful set design added layers of detail while keeping the space recognizable to those who know Pine Street best.

A Win for Students, Schools and the Upstate

The film’s presence in Spartanburg created ripple effects far beyond the camera lens. Through partnerships with the South Carolina Film Commission and the Urban League of the Upstate’s Studio 9.22 Workforce Development Initiative, the production intentionally hired local talent and provided paid opportunities for students and community members.

Those roles included: production assistants gaining film credits, high school, college and career-center interns, CDL drivers transporting equipment, an elementary teacher providing on-set tutoring, medical professionals ensuring crew safety, local restaurants providing meals and hotels and Airbnbs housing cast and crew.

Justin Liberman also praised Wofford College for lending a home base for production offices and the University of South Carolina’s film school for supplying talented graduates. “We were very fortunate with the crew we had,” he said. “It confirmed for us that South Carolina is full of incredible filmmakers.”

A Proud Moment for District 7

District 7 is proud that Pine Street Elementary and our staff could play a small but meaningful role in such a powerful project — one that celebrates resilience, opportunity and the strength of everyday communities.

Hosting a major film production gave students and staff a behind-the-scenes look at an industry many had never experienced firsthand, while also showcasing Spartanburg — and our schools — on a national stage.

It was a true example of what we call 7Shines — when collaboration, creativity and community partnerships come together to create something extraordinary for students and families.

We wish Justin Liberman and the entire cast and crew continued success and can’t wait to see Pine Street Elementary on the big screen.

From classrooms to camera crews — it was a moment we’ll never forget.

Award-winning filmmaker Justin Liberman and Grammy-winning artist Rhiannon Giddens confer outside Pine Street's Boyd St. entrance during filming — a moment that turned our familiar Spartanburg landmark into a movie set. 

🔗 Learn More About the Film:

• Rhiannon Giddens & Ed Helms To Topline Justin Liberman Drama ‘An Ode To Mary Jo’
• Why a feature film starring Ed Helms, Rhiannon Giddens and Jason Isbell was shot in Spartanburg, SC

At Spartanburg High School, classrooms are becoming clinics, labs, and launchpads for future careers — and students are thriving in the process.

This year’s new blended block schedule is helping make that possible. With longer class periods built for deeper engagement — along with a flexible “mini” or skinny block that allows students to add another course or career-focused experience — SHS students now have more time to immerse themselves in learning that mirrors the real world. Instead of rushing from bell to bell, they can focus, collaborate, practice, problem-solve, and refine skills that employers and colleges value.

That structure came to life recently in Health Science classes, where students took part in two powerful hands-on medical learning experiences.

In one event (pictured above), students participated in a mini medical simulation hosted by the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, rotating through interactive stations that introduced them to a wide range of healthcare careers. They practiced intubation techniques, laparoscopic simulations, ultrasounds, impaired-driving scenarios, and manual blood-pressure and heart-rate checks — gaining exposure to both the technical skills and decision-making required in medical fields.

In another immersive experience (pictured below), students transformed their classroom into an operating room — performing “surgery” on a potato patient. After constructing anatomy models, students followed case instructions and carried out procedures such as leg amputation and spleen removal, applying anatomical knowledge while strengthening teamwork, precision, communication, and critical thinking.

Together, these experiences showcase what learning looks like at Spartanburg High: active, engaging, and rooted in real-world application. The extended blocks give students time to explore complex concepts in depth, while the blended schedule opens doors for career training alongside strong academics.

It’s more than science class.

It’s preparation for life after graduation.

At SHS, students aren’t just learning about careers — they’re practicing them. And every simulation, project, and hands-on challenge is helping shape confident, capable graduates who are college ready, career ready, and ready for whatever comes next. 

Last Fall, Cleveland Academy hosted a heartwarming evening honoring its Multilingual Learners and their families (pictured below). Students who met their English Language Proficiency (ELP) goals were recognized with certificates and custom t-shirts. Families enjoyed a delicious meal, played BINGO for prizes, and learned more about the Multilingual Learner program and its impact on student success. It was a joyful celebration of achievement, community and learning.

Most recently at Drayton Mills Elementary School (above), the gym buzzed with excitement as families gathered around tables and students proudly accepted awards recognizing months of hard work.

The school recently hosted its first-ever Multilingual Learner (ML) Night, welcoming nearly 100 family members for an evening of celebration, connection and community. Students were honored for their growth on the 2025 WIDA ACCESS assessment, followed by a shared meal that allowed families to connect with teachers and one another.

It was a joyful milestone for Drayton Mills — and a perfect snapshot of what’s happening across Spartanburg District 7.

Because behind every award… is a strong instructional program, dedicated educators and a districtwide commitment to helping every child thrive.

Why This Matters

On the South Carolina School Report Card, the Multilingual Learners Progress Indicator measures how well students are advancing toward English language proficiency, with the goal of reaching proficiency within five years of enrollment.

This indicator is based on student performance on the WIDA ACCESS 2.0 assessment, which evaluates growth in listening, speaking, reading and writing. Each student receives personalized growth targets based on their starting English proficiency levels — making progress, year after year, the key measure of success.

And District 7 is delivering.

Recent state data from 2024–2025 shows ML proficiency rates statewide ranging from roughly the mid-20 percent range to the high-30s, depending on grade level and cohort.

District 7 exceeded those averages — and posted notable year-over-year growth — reflecting the strength of our curriculum, instructional supports and classroom practices across schools.

A Districtwide Commitment — Powered by Teachers

From Cleveland Academy to Drayton Mills and campuses across D7, Multilingual Learner teachers and support staff are doing extraordinary work every day — building language skills, nurturing confidence and opening doors for students and families.

ML Nights offered families a chance to see that commitment in action: teachers celebrating student success, answering questions, sharing resources and building relationships that extend far beyond the classroom.

These moments — when families, educators and students come together — are where learning truly comes alive.

From One School Night to Systemwide Impact

What happened at Drayton Mills and Cleveland Academy reflects a much bigger story.It’s the story of a district investing in strong curriculum, using data to guide instruction, and believing deeply in the potential of every learner.

It’s the story of students. And it’s the story of the teachers who walk beside them every day.

We are proud of our Multilingual Learner educators across District 7 — and grateful for the expertise, heart and dedication they bring to classrooms and families throughout our community.

Building for the Future: District 7 Launches Little Vikings Employee Childcare

In 2024, Spartanburg District 7 residents made a bold and inspiring statement about their commitment to children, educators and the future of public education.

With overwhelming approval of a community referendum, the District was empowered to move forward with transformative capital projects designed to strengthen schools, support employees and elevate learning opportunities across Spartanburg.

Two cornerstone projects now underway include the construction of a brand-new Jesse Boyd Elementary School — which will feature a dedicated employee childcare center — and a new addition at Mary H. Wright Elementary, also designed to include classroom space for employee childcare.

These centers represent an important investment in attracting and retaining outstanding teachers and staff while supporting working families within our district. The Little Vikings D7 Employee Childcare Center at Mary H. Wright Elementary is set to open this fall, while the Jesse Boyd location will open in fall 2027.

Together, these facilities reflect District 7’s long-term commitment to building a stronger, brighter future for students, educators and the entire community.

Little Vikings Applications Are Open

District 7 recently shared additional details with employees about the operations and application timeline for the new Little Vikings D7 Employee Childcare Center.

Over the past several months, the District’s early learning programs team has worked alongside an advisory committee of local childcare experts to incorporate best practices and design an exceptional experience for employees and their children.

To support both current staff and prospective hires, the District’s communications team launched a new webpage outlining center operations, enrollment details and key dates.

Applications for the Little Vikings D7 Employee Childcare Center are open for employees on our website.

Investing in Our Workforce — and Our Future

By expanding school facilities and providing on-site childcare options, District 7 continues to demonstrate innovative, family-focused solutions that strengthen recruitment efforts and help retain the exceptional professionals who serve our students every day.

These projects are another example of forward-thinking investments made possible through community partnership — and a reflection of our shared belief in the power of public education.

To learn more about the Little Vikings D7 Employee Childcare Center, visit spartanburg7.org/LittleVikings.

Spartanburg students are stepping into the future — and the possibilities just got even bigger. New community-driven partnerships are creating exciting, real-world career opportunities for high school students across our county, giving them hands-on experience, professional connections and a head start on life after graduation. Two major initiatives were recently announced, bringing together education leaders, local businesses and workforce organizations with one powerful goal: preparing students for success.

In partnership with OneSpartanburg, area businesses and all seven Spartanburg County school districts, a new countywide effort will soon open the door for high school juniors and seniors to apply for approximately 600 paid summer internships across a wide range of industries — all located right here in our community.

From business and manufacturing to healthcare, technology and beyond, students will gain valuable workplace experience while exploring careers that match their interests and ambitions.

A second new initiative, led by the Institute for Youth Justice in collaboration with OneSpartanburg, will give students a front-row seat to careers in law, civic leadership and the judicial system.

Through up to 50 new work-based learning opportunities, students will learn directly from professionals in the field, develop practical career skills and discover pathways into public service that could shape their futures. Both programs were unveiled alongside Spartanburg County school district superintendents and community leaders — a powerful reminder that when our community comes together, incredible things happen for students.

District 7 is proud to be part of this collaborative network working to create opportunities that stretch beyond the classroom and into the workforce.

Our students’ futures are bright — and with partners like these, the sky truly is the limit.

While District 7 schools and offices were closed in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the spirit of learning and service was very much alive across our community. Many members of the D7 Family chose to make it a “day on” rather than a day off — stepping forward to serve neighbors, strengthen connections and live out Dr. King’s timeless reminder:

“Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education.”

Across District 7, students engaged in meaningful experiences that honored Dr. King’s legacy through dialogue, service and leadership.

At Viking Early College, students commemorated Dr. King’s life and work through a powerful academic discussion centered on his 1963 Letter from Birmingham Jail. The conversation was moderated by Dr. John Simpkins — Harvard Law graduate, constitutional scholar, attorney and former general counsel for the Obama Administration — and enriched by guidance from distinguished community and education leaders, including SAM CEO Dr. Russell Booker; Spartanburg Mayor Jerome Rice; former Spartanburg Mayor and education philanthropist Bill Barnet; D7 Superintendent Jeff Stevens; USC Upstate Chancellor Dr. Bennie Harris; and Wofford College Assistant Dean of Student Success and College Access Dr. James Stukes.

VEC students shared thoughtful, insightful reflections that highlighted the continued relevance of Dr. King’s vision and their own strong desire to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

From hands-on service projects to moments of student recognition, the day reflected the very best of District 7.

Carver Middle Fills a Truck — and Hearts

One standout effort unfolded at Carver Middle School, where students rallied together to fill an entire truck with toiletries, clothing and canned goods destined for local shelters, nursing homes and community kitchens.

The initiative — led by Carver’s Student Council and Beta Club — was supported by parents, service organizations and community partners, creating a true team effort that showcased compassion in action.

Honoring Excellence at the Mayor’s Unity Breakfast

D7 also proudly participated in Spartanburg’s annual Mayor’s Unity Breakfast, where Spartanburg High School senior Sydney Josey was named one of only two recipients countywide of the prestigious Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration Scholarship.

A drum major for the Viking Marching Band, Sydney plans to attend Converse College and major in Data Science. Her award-winning essay — which captured both heart and purpose — highlighted her commitment to community, leadership and unity, values central to Dr. King’s legacy and the citywide Unity Week celebration.

Following her selection, Sydney was invited to attend the Mayor’s Unity Breakfast, hosted by Mayor Jerome Rice, which brought together local leaders, organizations and residents for reflection, fellowship and honoring Dr. King’s life and work. At the event, she met community leaders including Amy Woods and Alexander (Bernie) Smalls and was joined by fellow Spartanburg High Student Council member Tradd Hodge, who previously received the Junior Humanitarian Award in January 2025.

Another powerful student voice took the stage as well.

Tradd — now a freshman — spoke about the nonprofit philanthropic organization he founded, inspiring attendees with his commitment to service and leadership at such a young age.

Together, their presence underscored the impact students across District 7 are making far beyond classroom walls.

A proud moment for Spartanburg High at the Mayor’s Unity Breakfast. Sydney Josey and Tradd Hodge represented District 7 beautifully and connected with community leaders including Amy Woods and Bernie Smalls during a celebration honoring Dr. King’s legacy of service and unity.

Living the Legacy

From Viking Early College students engaging in courageous conversations, to middle schoolers loading trucks with donations, to high school leaders earning citywide recognition, District 7 students embodied Dr. King’s legacy through action.

These moments remind us that our classrooms are shaping more than scholars — they are cultivating compassionate leaders ready to make a difference. They also reflect the heart of 7Shines, when service, character, community partnership and student leadership come together to illuminate what’s possible for our schools and our city.

We are proud of our D7 Family for turning a day of remembrance into a day of purpose.

Carrying forward the spirit of MLK Jr. Day, District 7 schools across the district are marking the centennial of Black History Month with a month-long series of programs, activities, and special events honoring history, culture, and contributions.

Just a few examples:

At Pine, the theme Threads of Legacy will be a touchstone for exploring how individual stories of courage, creativity, and resilience weave together to shape our shared American story. Students will study the art of quilting and how it has long held significance in African American culture—as art, family history, community expression, and, according to oral tradition, sometimes as coded guides on the path toward freedom. This year’s project is inspired by the narrative quilts of Faith Ringgold, known for bold colors, symbolic borders, and storytelling designs, with classes creating individual story squares to be joined together in forming a quilt.

At E.P. Todd, the Black History Club from Spartanburg High School will teach lessons to Todd's students on various topics ranging from Jackie Robinson to Chadwick Boseman to Mae Jemison to Kitty Black Perkins, among others. Todd's students will be featured in their school-wide program presenting spoken word poetry, performing music, sharing their artwork, and enjoying performances by the Spartanburg High School dance team, Carver step team, South Pointe High dance team, and more.

At Drayton Mills, the theme centers around Black Leaders from South Carolina. Students will be introduced to a new historical figure each day and participate in reflections through artwork and writing.

At the middle and high school levels, student-led events and activities take the forefront, with robust calendars including everything from themed dress-up days to learning about influential figures a student talent show. SHS's Black History Club even created a shirt (back shown below) celebrating Black excellence, with Spartanburg's influential individuals and moments listed to celebrate the centennial.

Through it all, we see many cross-collaborations among our schools – a great reflection of how D7 SHINES – along with a great deal of creativity and much meaningful learning and reflection for our students and staff alike. Follow along with our schools' social media pages as BHM unfolds!

Spartanburg High School’s student journalists are back with a new edition of Norse News — and they continue to raise the bar for storytelling across the Viking community.

Driven by curiosity, creativity and a commitment to meaningful reporting, these students shine a spotlight on the people, moments and issues shaping life at SHS. Their work reflects the strength of the school’s journalism program and offers a powerful glimpse into the future of media and communications.

Produced entirely by students, Norse News captures the authentic voice of campus life through in-depth features, school highlights and timely event coverage. The latest edition brings stories to life through collaborative reporting, on-the-go interviews, a student-produced mini documentary, community spotlights, sports coverage and conversations designed to prepare students for life beyond graduation.

The January edition of SHS’s award-winning newspaper is now live at www.shsnorsenews.org. Readers can explore coverage of Viking basketball, the district’s MLK Day of Service, the upcoming Sadie Hawkins dance and Turn Up the Norse.

Families, alumni and community members are encouraged to follow along and support these talented student storytellers.

Another hallway smile from Superintendent Stevens — because our schools are where students and staff shine every day.

Looking 100 Days Smarter: Students Celebrate a Milestone in Style

Across District 7, students showed up to school on January 22 looking a little… wiser. To celebrate 100 days of learning, classrooms were filled with “young centurions” sporting gray hair, canes, robes, fuzzy slippers and creative accessories — all in good fun and with plenty of smiles. From imaginative outfits to classroom activities marking the milestone, the day highlighted just how much learning has happened since the first bell of the school year.

When snowflakes fall, the D7 Family shows up — and this winter proved it twice over. After fresh snow blanketed our community on January 25 and 31, we invited families on Facebook to share their snow-day adventures… and they absolutely delivered. More than 800 photos poured into the comments — from sledding runs and snowmen masterpieces to backyard laughter and cozy moments at home.

These snapshots captured exactly what makes District 7 so special: teachers, staff, students, and families sharing joy beyond the classroom. The response was nothing short of incredible. With 68K and 38K views, those posts became our highest-performing social media moments of the past year — proof that a little snow (and a lot of school spirit) goes a very long way.



Because at heart… we’re all still kids. 

We’re proud to recognize Viking Early College (VEC) senior Amare Surratt, who has been selected to serve as a Junior Counselor for Palmetto Boys State! Palmetto Boys State is a prestigious leadership program where high school students explore government, citizenship, and public service through hands-on experiences.

In his new role, Amare will mentor fellow students, help lead activities and support program staff — all while sharpening his leadership and teamwork skills.

Way to shine, Amare—we’re proud of you and your VEC leadership!

D7 is proud to celebrate Abbey Ray Pruitt, a special education teacher at Spartanburg High School, who has been named Ingles’ Amazing Teacher of the Month for her dedication to students and innovative real-world learning.

Nominated by Jennifer Ray, Pruitt was recognized for creating meaningful classroom experiences — including launching a student-run business called Sip Squad, which allows students to earn work-based learning hours while building skills in teamwork, professionalism and customer service.

At Spartanburg High, Pruitt serves as the Employability and Social Development teacher for students on the South Carolina Credential Track, helping students develop essential life and career skills through hands-on learning.

She credits her passion for education to her mother and says her students inspire her daily. “For many of my students, school is where they feel safe, supported and empowered to succeed,” Pruitt said.

District 7 is grateful for educators like Abbey Ray Pruitt, whose compassion, creativity and commitment reflect the very best of public education.

Vikings take on Disney! A combined group of District 7 chorus and orchestra students recently traveled to Disney, where they celebrated the arts while blending performance, learning and unforgettable experiences. From rehearsals and workshops to exploring the parks together, the trip highlighted the talent, dedication and creative spirit that define fine arts across D7.

The Carver Middle School Wildcats proudly presented a $5,000 check to Hope Center for Children after a semester-long fundraising effort led by students and staff through a spirited Clemson–Carolina rivalry.

The fall campaign united the school community around a shared purpose — supporting Hope Center for Children, an organization that directly serves families in the Carver community.

This meaningful initiative reflects the dedication of Carver’s leadership team and teachers, who consistently model service, generosity and community pride while empowering students to make a real impact.

Way to go, Wildcats, for proving that giving back is something to cheer for! 

During National School Counseling Week, D7 paused to shine a well-deserved spotlight on the professionals who quietly—and powerfully—shape student success every single day.

Across our district, school counselors and career advisors are often the first to listen, the first to encourage, and the first to step in when a student needs guidance. They nurture hearts and minds, build confidence, support students through challenges and transitions, open doors to opportunity, and help every learner uncover their strengths and imagine what’s possible for the future.

Their work happens in offices and hallways, during scheduled meetings and unexpected moments, in conversations that restore confidence and plans that set new paths forward. They create safe spaces. They advocate fiercely. And they believe deeply in every student’s potential.

We are grateful for the incredible counseling teams who serve our schools:

Early College Programs: Ava Long

Jesse Boyd: Tricia Pressley

Cleveland Academy: Karen Meadow-Rogers

Drayton Mills: Bettina Johnson, Courtney Huffman

Mary H. Wright: Kenneth Smith, Le’Jeta Proctor

Pine Street: Natalie Mullen, Jodi Stepp

E.P. Todd: Brandon Jones, Stephanye Zimmermann

Carver: Ebony Smith-Salters, Andrea Little, Erica Smith

McCracken: Daniel O’Brien, Naila Ray, Anthony Brothers

Spartanburg High: Erin Lyerly, Terri Roberson, Shara Jones, O’Shay Davenport, Denise Foster, Gina Dachenhausen, Lauren Hicklin, Piper Holmes, Addie Jones

Daniel Morgan: Teleisha Fields, Delilah Goode

Whitlock Flexible Learning: Alison Wight, Fred Ford

McCarthy-Teszler: Tamala Robinson

Thank you for being champions for students, trusted guides for families, and essential partners in our schools. Your impact reaches far beyond classrooms—shaping futures and strengthening our entire community.

Second semester is in full swing — and before you know it, we’ll be gearing up for the 2026–2027 school year! Now is the perfect time for parents and guardians to log into FinalForms and make sure contact information and student records are up to date.

👉 https://spartanburgseven-sc.finalforms.com/parents/login

A few minutes now can save a lot of hassle later. FinalForms is our one-stop shop for keeping student information accurate and making life easier for families.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

✔️ Auto-Fill Magic — Information from last year rolls over, so you don’t have to start from scratch.

✔️ One & Done — Have multiple students? Shared details update across all their forms.

✔️ Stay in the Know — Make sure schools and transportation can reach you by confirming your phone number, email address and emergency contacts.

Pro Tip: If your home address changes, be sure to notify both the school and the transportation office — especially for bus riders.

Need help? Visit this link for step-by-step instructions on logging in and making updates.

A few clicks today mean a smoother start to next school year. Thanks for being part of our D7 family!

As we gear up for the 2026-2027 school year, we want to make sure all D7 families are fully informed of the key enrollment dates and processes. Here's what you need to know to help guide families through this exciting time:

New 3K, 4K, and 5K Student Enrollment (2025-2026): Opening Friday, February 13

Enrollment for new 3K, 4K, and 5K students opens Friday, February 14! Note: This enrollment period is only for new 3K, 4K, and 5K students and current D7 3K students. Current D7 4K students will wait to register for 5K until returning student registration begins after Spring Break.

Visit D7 Kindergarten Enrollment to find all the necessary information.

Please help spread the word—we're thrilled to welcome new families and students to D7!

3K Program Details

Need-based 3K classes are offered at Cleveland Academy of Leadership (these are housed across the street at The Franklin School) and Mary H. Wright Elementary. These programs are supported by a Full-Service Community Schools grant, in partnership with Spartanburg Academic Movement and District 7. Acceptance Criteria: Based on financial and/or developmental need, with priority for students residing within the schools' attendance zones. Three-year-olds are also eligible to apply for the Montessori Program at E.P. Todd School and tuition is charged much like non-public school programs.  The Montessori program at E.P. Todd is a half-day program. To learn more, call the school at (864) 594-4475.

4K Program Details

All D7 elementary schools offer need-based 4K programs! Acceptance follows similar criteria to 3K, prioritizing financial and developmental need through a formal application and assessment process.

Important Note for Current District 7 3K and 4K Students:

Families of students currently in District 7's 3K program should apply for 4K now. Families of students currently in District 7's 4K program will wait until the returning student enrollment period begins after Spring Break (they do not need to complete new student registration).

5K Program Details

Children who will be five years old on or before September 1 of this year must enroll in a public or private 5K program, unless the parent or legal guardian signs a waiver. If a 5K waiver is signed, state law requires the child to enroll in first grade the following year at age 6. Free 5K programs are available at all District 7 schools.

Enrollment Timeline & Process

Beginning, February 13, D7 elementary schools will begin accepting:

• 3K applications
• 4K applications
• NEW 5K student enrollment forms

What Families Need:

Parents can access the required forms online and must bring them, along with the required documentation, to their zoned elementary school to complete the process.

5K–12th Grade Returning Student Enrollment (2026-2027): Opening After Spring Break

Returning student enrollment for rising 5K - 12th grades will start after Spring Break. Parents/guardians will receive an email prompting them to complete the online enrollment process by logging into their FinalForms account.

Annual Required Residency Verification:

Each year, families must verify their current home address to ensure students are attending the correct schools for their attendance zones. Schools will provide more information on how and when to submit this verification as we approach the end of the school year.

In-District School Choice & Out-of-District Tuition Applications for NEW STUDENTS (2026-2027): Open During March for Rising 1st–12th Grades, Open During July for Rising 5K

The application window for NEW 1st–12th GRADE STUDENTS requesting In-District School Choice or Out-of-District Tuition enrollment will be open from March 1-31, 2026.

• No need to reapply: Students currently enrolled under School Choice or Out-of-District Tuition do not apply again. These students will participate in returning student enrollment after Spring Break.
• Middle School progression: School Choice and Out-of-District students will automatically progress from their D7 elementary school into its zoned middle school.
• Application Window: Applications for rising 1st–12th grade students are accepted from March 1-31. All submissions during this window are considered equally (they are NOT first come, first served).
• Space Availability: A list of available spaces for the 2026-2027 school year will be published by March 1.

The application window for NEW 5K STUDENTS is July 1–15, 2026. Availability for Kindergarten (5K) will be released at that time.

Month Long Celebration

Black History Month

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Progress Reports