Hard hats on and smiles all around! Relive the excitement of our Jesse Boyd Elementary groundbreaking with this 30-second recap—fresh, fun, and full of promise!

A New Chapter Takes Root

Gratitude filled the air as District 7 leaders, families, students, educators, and community partners gathered beneath pale blue skies on Webber Road to celebrate a milestone years in the making. On November 24, 2025, we officially broke ground on a future-forward JBE campus that will also be home to the district’s second Little Vikings Employee Childcare Center.

The turning of the soil signified far more than upcoming construction – it reflected a promise to our community being fulfilled.

A Season of Thanks, A Vision Realized

Board Chair Clay Mahaffey noted how fitting it was to celebrate during a season of thanksgiving. “This is a day of gratitude as we take an important step forward for education in Spartanburg,” he shared—reminding us that this project is built on community trust as much as concrete and steel.

Superintendent Jeff Stevens echoed that sense of shared purpose. “Today is a proud and historic moment for District 7,” he said. “As our shovels turn this earth, District 7 turns the page to an exciting new chapter.” His message was clear: this achievement belongs to everyone who believed in the vision. “You are ensuring the next generation will learn and grow in a space designed for innovation, safety, and opportunity.”

Honoring the Past, Building the Future

The day was rich with meaningful connections. Among our honored guests were Boyd Scott, grandson of the school’s namesake, and his wife Nancy, who traveled from Columbia carrying memories of the original Jesse Boyd Elementary that opened in 1965. The couple is pictured with JBE students and D7 administrators above. Former principals Meredith Rose, Margaret Peach, and Bob Grant joined the celebration as well—leaders whose dedication helped shape the school’s legacy and spirit.

A School Is Its People

For Principal Jonathan Duvall, the moment was deeply personal. “Our school is a jewel,” he said, “and soon it will shine even brighter in a beautiful new home designed to support modern-day teaching and learning.” Reflecting on more than 60 years of history, he added, “It’s the people who make a building feel like home—and that family spirit will move with us into our new home in 2027.”

That spirit was also reflected by PTO President Kinsey Blackwell, whose children represent the third generation of her family to attend Jesse Boyd. Student body president Ben Hoyle also shared his excitement for what lies ahead.

Designed for What’s Next

Project partners William Gray of McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture and David Wise of Harper General Contractors unveiled renderings of the new school, highlighting thoughtfully designed spaces that encourage collaboration, creativity, and performance — inside and out.

A Song for the Future

In one of the day’s most moving moments, music teacher Rachel Odom led the fifth-grade choir in the debut of Jesse Boyd’s new alma mater. Created through a collaborative, school-wide process last year, the song floated across the construction site, creating an unforgettable reminder that this school is, and always will be, about its students.

Breaking Ground — Together

As the ceremony concluded, the District 7 Board of Trustees, Superintendent Stevens, district leaders, and members of the Jesse Boyd family came together to ceremonially break ground.“Here’s to a school that will nurture minds, strengthen community, and inspire generations to come,” Superintendent Stevens said. “Your love for District 7’s children and dedication to their education is abundantly clear.”

And with that, a new chapter officially took root.

🔗 Read the story, see additional photos and watch the full celebration here:

• Jesse Boyd Groundbreaking

🔗 Learn More About D7 Construction Projects:

• Mary H. Wright Elementary Employee Childcare Center Project
• Jesse Boyd Elementary Construction Project
• Transportation Facility Project

Each holiday season, the McCracken Middle School orchestra shares music and joy beyond the classroom, welcoming travelers at the Greenville Spartanburg International Airport with live performances near baggage claim. It’s a beloved tradition that reflects the spirit of the season and the talent of our students.

This year, that tradition led to an unforgettable moment. As Time For Three, a Grammy- and Emmy-winning ensemble, arrived at GSP on their way to perform at the Peace Center, they happened upon the McCracken orchestra. The encounter quickly turned into something special as the artists unpacked their instruments and jumped in to join our students in making music. They also took time to share encouragement, insight, and inspiration.

Moments like this highlight the power of the arts and the meaningful connections they create, reminding us how music can bring people together in the most unexpected places. Enjoy this heartwarming experience in the video above.

Above: Video credit to GSP Airport.

“At Cleveland, success is the expectation — not the exception.”

Those were the words South Carolina State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver used to describe Cleveland Academy of Leadership during her recent visit to Spartanburg School District 7, and they capture exactly what she experienced inside the building.

Superintendent Weaver spent time with Cleveland students, teachers, and staff, engaging in meaningful conversations about learning, leadership, and the power of strong school-community partnerships. She was welcomed by students, school and district leaders including Superintendent Jeff Stevens, and Cleveland alumni who are members of D7’s Viking Early College – earning both a Spartanburg High School diploma and an associate’s degree from Spartanburg Community College.

Principal Dr. Marquice Clark, the South Carolina Association of School Administrators' 2024–2025 Elementary Principal of the Year, shared the school’s journey as a South Carolina “Beating the Odds” school — one that takes a bold, community-centered approach to removing barriers and unlocking student potential. Throughout the visit, Superintendent Weaver toured spaces that reflect that philosophy in action, including Cleveland’s math lab, on-site dental clinic, and the “Loads of Love” laundry facility. Each resource exists through intentional community partnerships designed to support students academically, physically, and emotionally.

Visits to Teacher of the Year Tristan Hunt’s fourth-grade class and multilingual learner teacher Gow Lo’s classroom highlighted engaged instruction and joyful learning, while conversations centered on how schools across South Carolina can continue to innovate in ways that best serve students. The visit concluded in Bethany Massingill’s first-grade classroom, where Superintendent Weaver joined students on the carpet to read one of her favorite books, If You Give a Dog a Donut. Students eagerly shared stories about their pets and lives beyond the classroom, a simple but powerful reminder of the connections that make learning meaningful.

“At Cleveland, high expectations are paired with high support,” Superintendent Weaver reflected. “Through strong partnerships with families and the community, this school is proving what’s possible for students. The future leaders being shaped here are on a powerful path forward.”

Cleveland Academy of Leadership reflects the very best of Spartanburg School District 7 — a school grounded in belief, driven by purpose, and powered by partnership. We are incredibly proud of the students, staff, and families of Cleveland, whose daily work demonstrates what it means to shine through resilience, innovation, and love. Their story is a powerful example of how District 7 lives its commitment to ensuring every student is seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.

7SHINES in Action:

Team7 Surpasses United Way Goal

“Show Up for Spartanburg” was the theme for this year’s D7 Employee United Way of the Piedmont campaign, with an exciting lineup of performances from some of the very best arts organizations in our community as incentives for a few lucky campaign participants. Thanks to the generosity of the Spartanburg Philharmonic, Chapman Cultural Center, Ballet Spartanburg, and Spartanburg Little Theatre, faculty and staff had the opportunity to enjoy incredible local shows while supporting an even greater cause. We are deeply grateful to these partners for donating tickets and helping make this year’s campaign both fun and special.

District 7 faculty and staff truly showed up through their participation —demonstrating how 7Shines through generosity, service, and community. Not only did Team7 meet the challenge, we surpassed our goal, raising over $40,000 to support students and families across Spartanburg.

District 7 is proud to support United Way’s Community Impact Agenda, which works to remove barriers that stand in the way of students thriving—addressing poverty, self-sufficiency, education, and employment. Thank you, Team7, for showing up—and for proving once again that when 7Shines, Spartanburg shines.

What an incredible run at Pine Street as our students brought the house down with four sold-out performances of Annie Jr. — each overflowing with heart, energy, and extraordinary talent.

As an arts-infused school, Pine Street continues to show what creative learning looks like in action. From the stage to behind the scenes, their young performers, alongside dedicated staff and volunteers, delivered a production that highlighted not only impressive artistic skill, but also the confidence, collaboration, and joy that the arts inspire.

Congratulations to Pine and to everyone who helped make it such a success. But the excitement doesn’t stop here — momentum will continue into the spring as other schools across the district bring their own productions to the stage. And the District’s production of The Wizard of Oz will cap off our year at the Fine Arts Center April 23–26!

Re:Degree recently celebrated the first Wofford–Converse Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) cohort at District 7’s administrative offices. The celebration recognized three graduates who will walk across the stage this May—an exciting milestone as they prepare to begin their careers as educators.

This achievement follows the April 16, 2024 announcement of a new 4+1 partnership between Converse University, Wofford College, OneSpartanburg, and Spartanburg School Districts 3 and 7. The partnership creates a seamless pathway for Wofford students to earn their MAT from Converse, strengthening the local educator pipeline and opening doors for future teachers.

One of the MAT graduates is Margaret Chandler, who will soon bring her talents directly into our classrooms. She will officially join E.P. Todd School on January 20, serving on the 5th grade team as a Science and Social Studies teacher. Principal Victoria Bradley shared that Ms. Chandler brings a strong commitment to children. "Thanks to District 7’s partnership with Wofford College and Converse University, the district is able to welcome a fully certified teacher prepared through a high-quality program. We are excited to see the positive impact Ms. Chandler will make on her students and our school family. Her passion for education and dedication to student success make her an outstanding addition to the E.P. Todd school community."

Re:Degree is a community-wide initiative designed to help adults return to college and complete their degrees. In just a short time, 160 Spartanburg County residents have committed to restarting their journey toward degree completion. Open to anyone with some college experience but no degree, Re:Degree provides personalized support and guidance—no matter why an educational journey was paused—helping individuals finish what they started.

District 7 is proud to support innovative partnerships like the 4+1 MAT program and Re:Degree that expand opportunities for learners of all ages and strengthen the future of education in our community.

To learn more about Re:Degree or to get started, visit redegreespartanburg.com.

Spartanburg School District 7 has finalized its 2026–2027 academic calendar, which aims to support student success while prioritizing the well-being of both students and staff.

New to the upcoming school year are two additional breaks—one in the fall and one midwinter—intentionally placed to give students and teachers time to recharge and return to the classroom ready to learn and grow. Research and experience continue to show that well-timed breaks help sustain engagement, reduce burnout, and support steady academic progress throughout the year.

The calendar was developed in collaboration with all Spartanburg County school districts, reflecting a shared commitment to consistency, thoughtful planning, and what’s best for students and families across our community.

District 7’s calendar also continues to include staff development days, providing dedicated time for teachers and staff to collaborate, continue their own professional learning, and strengthen instruction—work that directly benefits students in the classroom.

As we look ahead to the 2026–2027 school year, District 7 remains committed to creating a balanced, supportive learning environment where students can thrive and teachers feel empowered to do their best work.

Spartanburg High School students have published the fourth editions of this year’s Norse News and Viking News TV! Through thoughtful reporting, creativity, and a clear sense of purpose, student journalists continue to elevate the stories, perspectives, and conversations that matter most to their school community. Their work reflects the excellence of the Viking community and serves as a powerful reminder that the future of journalism is bright.

Together, these student-led publications offer an authentic window into life at SHS, showcasing voices that are informed, engaged, and ready to lead. The latest episode and issue feature meaningful stories, school highlights, and upcoming events—brought to life through countless hours of student collaboration and including on-the-go interviews, a student-produced mini documentary, community spotlights, sports features, and conversations that help prepare students for life beyond graduation.

We encourage families, alumni, and community members to follow along and support these outstanding student storytellers.

📖 Read the Latest Norse News

🎥 Watch the New Episode of Viking News TV

When students share their voices, 7Shines.

Caught smiling in the hallway again! Mr. Stevens loves celebrating our schools – the places where our students and staff truly shine!

This November in District 7, our focus has been on gratitude in action. Through food drives and acts of service across our schools, students, staff, and families stepped up in meaningful ways to support neighbors in need. These collective efforts remind us that giving thanks isn’t just about words, but about showing up, lending a hand, and caring for one another.

Moments like these reflect the heart of District 7. When we come together with purpose and compassion, 7Shines.

Big things are happening at Daniel Morgan Technology Center!

From exciting new courses and certifications to expanded partnerships and well-deserved recognition, DMTC continues to raise the bar in career preparation across a wide range of fields. Under the leadership of Dr. Nikki Honeycutt, the momentum is real and the vision is clear.

Congratulations to Dr. Honeycutt on being named SC Health Sciences Educators’ Administrator of the Year by the SC Association of Career and Technical Educators. We love seeing the DMTC community shine!

So proud to see our District 7 Teacher of the Year, Alicia Fulmer of Pine Street Elementary, sharing her expertise with education students at Converse University! There’s nothing better than watching outstanding educators mentor the next generation of teachers. Mrs. Fulmer truly embodies what it means to let 7Shines through leadership, service, and a heart for teaching.

Students from Spartanburg High School are celebrating an outstanding achievement by the SHS Viking Battalion Drill Team, which earned a 2nd-place finish in Unarmed Regulation Drill at the 2025 Freedom High School Drill Meet.

Led by Cadet Amariah Robinson, the team demonstrated exceptional precision, discipline, and teamwork—hallmarks of the Viking Battalion and the strong leadership development fostered at SHS. Their performance reflected countless hours of practice and a deep commitment to excellence.

Congratulations to Cadet Robinson and every member of the Viking Battalion Drill Team on this impressive accomplishment. Their hard work and dedication continue to make us proud.

The holiday spirit is alive at Drayton Mills Elementary School! From festive performances by third-grade students during the December Lights program to special appearances by the SHS Corporation, DMES has been filled with music, celebration, and the joy of the season as students and staff come together to celebrate the holidays.

Students at E.P. Todd School recently stepped back in time thanks to an immersive learning experience led by Mrs. Weathers’ and Ms. Lee’s Upper Elementary Montessori classes.

Students put their learning into action by dipping candles, writing and sealing letters with wax, and discussing the patience and craftsmanship required during the Revolutionary War era. Their classroom experience was further enriched by a visit from Revolutionary War re-enactor Mr. Massingill, who shared historical artifacts and firsthand knowledge of life during that time. Students even participated in games played during the period.

Experiences like this reflect how District 7 teachers consistently go the extra mile to bring learning to life—creating meaningful, memorable moments that inspire curiosity and deepen understanding.

Mary H. Wright Elementary was filled with holiday cheer as kindergarten students and their families came together for a festive gingerbread house–building celebration.

Parents were invited to work alongside their children—designing, building, and decorating gingerbread houses while sharing meaningful moments together. Laughter, creativity, and teamwork filled the room as students showed off their designs and families experienced the classroom environment in a joyful, hands-on way.

Moments like these strengthen and grow the partnership between home and school at Mary H. Wright. By opening classroom doors and creating opportunities for families to engage in learning, teachers are building connections that support students and lay the foundation for a strong, supportive school community—especially during the holiday season.

Carver Middle School recently celebrated academic excellence by recognizing seven students who earned the distinction of Junior Scholar. These students achieved qualifying scores on the PSAT—550 or higher in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing or 530 or higher in Mathematics—a reflection of their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to learning. Their achievement was honored during a school pep rally, made even more memorable with special appearances by Cocky and the Clemson Tiger Cub, who joined in celebrating their success.

This recognition highlights the high expectations and strong academic culture at Carver Middle School. Congratulations to these seven students for setting a powerful example of excellence and achievement.

The Franklin School recently hosted its inaugural Evening of Discovery Gala, marking the beginning of a new tradition that celebrates the school’s mission and the bright futures being built for students.

The evening brought together families, supporters, and community partners in a shared commitment to learning, innovation, and student success. The Franklin School extends heartfelt thanks to everyone whose incredible support helped make this event such a meaningful and memorable success.

Special recognition goes to Director Shawna Bynum. Her leadership, vision, and dedication, along with the hard work of the Franklin School team and community volunteers, laid the foundation for a tradition that will continue to grow.

As our community enjoys a few days of rest and time together this holiday season, the team at McCarthy Teszler School wants everyone to know how truly grateful they are for the students, families, and supporters who make their school community so special.

We’re excited to share photos from Ernie’s Thanksgiving Break Parade—a joyful new celebration filled with creativity, school spirit, and smiles. Watch out, Macy’s… Ernie’s Parade may be giving you a run for your money!

This year, Spartanburg High School is honored to again host the Shrine Bowl, welcoming the top high school players from North Carolina and South Carolina to our campus. The game will be played at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, at Spartanburg High School.

The Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas recognizes the very best high school football players in the Carolinas. Each year, elite athletes — many of whom were once competitors — come together as teammates, sharing skills and competing on a highly visible stage in support of the Shriners’ mission.

Players arrived in Spartanburg and at Spartanburg High School on Monday to begin practicing together as teams. The event draws news media, college scouts, and fans, with coverage from major media outlets across both states.

We are incredibly proud of Will Love and honored that Spartanburg High School is hosting this premier event.

For more information and tickets, visit:

https://www.shrinebowlofthecarolinas.com

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Student Half Day

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Students Return