What are our favorite memories? What made us proud? What did we learn?

Hear personal stories from students, teachers, administrators, and staff about what made their year SHINE!

As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close, we have so much to celebrate — and even more to look forward to.

This year, District 7 truly reflected our annual theme of 7Shines. From record-setting iReady scores to state and national recognition for our schools, students, teachers, artists, athletes, and teams, this has been a year marked by achievement, growth, resilience, and community pride.

Among the many highlights of the year was an historic day for Spartanburg High School athletics, as both the Vikings boys tennis team and the Lady Vikings lacrosse team earned SCHSL Class 5A Division I State Championships on the same day — the first time in school history that two state titles have been captured in one day. The girls lacrosse championship also marked the first state title in program history.

We also saw incredible progress across our district as major construction projects took shape. Construction of the new Jesse Boyd Elementary School is well underway, our new Little Vikings early childhood center at Mary H. Wright is nearing completion and will welcome children this fall, and our transportation department addition and renovations are now complete (along with some shiny new Viking buses to transport our students in stye!). These investments represent our ongoing commitment to creating spaces where students and staff can thrive for generations to come.

As we reflect on this remarkable school year and look to all that’s ahead, I’m reminded that the strength of District 7 has always been found in its people — students, staff, families, and community members who continue to show up for one another with heart, purpose, and pride.

Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey. Thank you for supporting our students, encouraging our staff, and believing in the power of public education. I hope this summer brings time to rest, recharge, and celebrate all we’ve accomplished together.

As we prepare for a new school year, lets continue to let 7Shine brightly in all we do.

With appreciation,

Superintendent Jeff Stevens

Our seniors finished strong! On Wednesday evening, May 20, a proud crowd of families, friends, educators, and community members gathered in Viking Stadium as the Spartanburg High School Class of 2026 crossed the stage and officially became graduates.

Senior Class President Callie Crocker opened the evening with a heartfelt and personal reflection on perseverance, growth, and embracing the journey ahead. “Before we all start thinking too far ahead about what’s next, just take a second… and live in this moment,” she shared with her classmates. “It wasn’t always perfect, and it definitely wasn’t easy, but we made it to this day. And if there’s one thing this class has proven, it’s that we know how to keep going.”

Principal Dr. Andrew McMillan echoed that pride and admiration while recognizing the accomplishments and character of the Class of 2026. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with this group of students, and I love them dearly,” he shared during the ceremony. “I have enjoyed watching them navigate their senior year, and I know this group will do great things, as they all have been excellent ambassadors for Spartanburg High School.”

The evening celebrated not only the conferring of diplomas, but also the incredible accomplishments of the Class of 2026. Together, the senior class earned more than $19 million in merit scholarships (with 70% of the class earning awards). The class included 34 Palmetto Fellows, 295 Life Scholars, 22 South Carolina Academic Honor Award recipients, and 50 AP Scholars. Twenty-one students also earned associate's degrees through our Viking Early College and the Spartanburg County Early College High School, in addition to their high school diplomas.

Congratulations to the Spartanburg High School Class of 2026! Your future is bright, and you will always be a Viking!

Visit the CLASS OF 2026 CELEBRATION PAGE for additional photos, ceremony information, and ways to honor and celebrate your favorite graduate.

Watch highlights from the SENIOR WALKS IN OUR ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS and view the FULL COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY video below.

Our special two-page tribute tribute to the Class of 2026 will be featured in the Spartanburg Herald-Journal on Sunday, May 24 and Wednesday, May 27. This special keepsake is worth saving! Our senior salute ad celebrates the many achievements, milestones, and bright futures of our incredible seniors. Complimentary copies are available for every senior to pick up in the front office at SHS beginning Tuesday, May 26.

Spartanburg High School made history May 8th, capturing two South Carolina High School League Class 5A Division I State Championships in the same day for the first time in school history.

The Vikings boys tennis team claimed the SCHSL Class 5A Division I State Championship with a thrilling 4-3 victory over Wando, while the Lady Vikings lacrosse team defeated Lexington High School 8-4 to earn the SCHSL Class 5A Division I State Championship — the first girls lacrosse state title in program history.

The historic day also marked Spartanburg High School’s first team state championships since 2019, adding even more significance to an unforgettable weekend for Viking athletics and the entire District 7 community.

From championship courts to championship fields, Viking student-athletes delivered performances that reflected months — and in many cases, years — of dedication, discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. The championships represented not only victories on the scoreboard, but the culmination of countless hours of preparation, sacrifice, and belief.

The boys tennis title continued the proud tradition of one of South Carolina’s premier tennis programs. Throughout the season, the Vikings demonstrated consistency, focus, and depth, ultimately finishing their championship run with a thrilling state title victory over one of the state’s most respected tennis programs.

Facing a 1-3 deficit and elimination, the comeback began with senior Thomas Cheek, who delivered a clutch straight-set win to keep Spartanburg alive. Senior Wade Neely followed with a dominant performance to even the match and force a decisive doubles showdown. With the championship hanging in the balance, senior Hudson Chung and Cheek rose to the moment, sealing the state title with a commanding 6-2, 6-1 doubles victory.

In his first season leading the program, Head Coach Steven Larkin guided Spartanburg through a remarkable postseason run built on resilience, competitive fire, and belief in one another. “This was truly an honor to win a state championship in my first year as part of the Spartanburg High School Tennis Program,” Larkin said. “Our team worked hard and stayed dedicated to the end goal. Every guy on our team held an important role, and I’m proud of how they grew together as a team this season.”

At the same time, the Lady Vikings lacrosse team completed a remarkable redemption journey one year after falling short in the state championship game. Determined to finish what they started, the team entered the season motivated by the heartbreak of last year’s loss and united around a shared goal.

Friday night’s championship matchup remained tightly contested through three quarters before Spartanburg surged ahead in the fourth quarter, showcasing the grit, composure, and determination that defined the team all season long. The Lady Vikings finished the year by checking off nearly every goal imaginable, winning the region championship, setting program milestones, and ultimately bringing home the first state title in program history.

The victory was also fueled by a dominant defensive effort. Lexington entered the championship averaging 18 goals per game this season, but Spartanburg’s defense held the Wildcats to just four goals, including an incredible 21-minute scoreless stretch. The defensive unit was anchored by senior goalie Abby Hampton and senior midfielder Saffy Evans, whose leadership and composure helped set the tone throughout the night.

Senior attacker Addie Usry led the Vikings with three goals, while senior midfielder Virginia Delaney added two. Senior attacker Evers Morris also found the back of the net in the championship victory.

For the Lady Vikings, the championship represented more than a single victory. It was the culmination of years of hard work, resilience, and unwavering trust in one another. Many of the players on this year’s roster have grown up together through youth and travel lacrosse, building friendships and chemistry long before stepping onto the varsity field.

Together, the two championships marked a milestone moment for Spartanburg High School athletics and a powerful reminder of the excellence, tradition, and pride that continue to define Viking Nation. It was a historic day for Spartanburg High School — one that players, coaches, families, and fans will remember for years to come — and another reminder that when our students compete with passion, resilience, and pride, 7Shines brighter than ever.

District 7 extends a warm invitation to families in Spartanburg to participate in our summer meal program for 2026.

We're providing free individual meals served at various community sites and as part of summer school and other structured programs at our school sites. Please note that meals must be enjoyed on-site, per Federal program regulations.

While our school sites are exclusively serving enrolled summer school students, some community sites are open to anyone aged 18 and under. This initiative is made possible thanks to the United States Department of Agriculture's Summer Meals Program.

Find out more and check the schedule on our website: [https://www.spartanburg7.org/summermeals].

Whether you're looking to earn your diploma, learn English, or gain new skills, Spartanburg County Adult Education is here to help you take the next step. With flexible classes offered during the day and evening at locations across the county—including a summer schedule—there’s always an opportunity to start (or restart) your journey.

The impact of this program reaches far beyond the classroom, changing lives and strengthening our entire Spartanburg community. Our team is ready to help you explore what’s possible. Learn more here.

Enrollment is now open for all NEW students entering 3K–12th grade for the 2026–2027 school year!

District 7 supports kindergarten readiness with 4K classrooms at every elementary school. All 3K and 4K programs require a kindergarten readiness assessment for admission.

📚 Children turning 5 by September 1, 2026, must enroll in a 5K program.

🏫 Enrollment is available at all District 7 elementary schools.

🔗 Visit D7 Kindergarten Enrollment for everything you need to get started.

Families should bring the required documents to their zoned elementary school to complete enrollment Monday–Thursday during the summer beginning in June.

Know a family with a future Viking? Help us spread the word and invite them to start their D7 journey today!

New and returning student enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is in full swing!

INSTRUCTIONS FOR RETURNING STUDENTS

Preparing for the new school year is a two-step process:

1. Review and update your student's FinalForms information (OPEN NOW)
2. Submit your annual required proof of residency (your school will communicate dates and instructions for this over the summer)

The process is easy – all you need to do is follow simple steps found here.

FinalForms is our one-stop shop for keeping your student’s records accurate and making life easier for families. You can log in any time during the year to make updates.

ANNUAL REQUIRED RESIDENCY VERIFICATION



Spartanburg School District 7 requires proof of residency for all students each school year. Your child's school will communicate summertime document drop-off dates AFTER JULY 1, during which time you should bring this in along with any other needed items. 

• If you have not moved since registering last year, only one current utility bill is required.
• If you have moved, two proofs of residency are required and must include ONE of the following: A recent tax document for primary residence, current signed rental/lease agreement with legally notarized documentation from landlord verifying current address, AND ONE current utility bill (i.e. electric, gas, water, cable).

Now is the perfect time to check one important item off your back-to-school list: vaccinations! As August gets closer, appointment availability becomes more limited, so we encourage families to schedule early.

The Spartanburg County Health Department currently has immunization appointments available. To schedule, call 1-855-472-3432. Monthly specialty immunization clinics will also be offered throughout the summer to help families prepare for the new school year.

You can review the 2026–2027 vaccination requirements and find additional information through the South Carolina Department of Public Health here:

https://dph.sc.gov/health-wellness/child-teen-health/vaccine-requirements-info

District 7 was proud to celebrate our newest educators during this year’s Induction Teacher Celebration!

From day one, these first-year teachers have brought energy, heart, and a deep commitment to students and learning. This year’s induction class included 38 educators, with many already planning to continue their journey in education right here in D7.

As part of the celebration, each teacher received a framed copy of the purpose statement they wrote at the beginning of the school year — a reminder of the passion and purpose that brought them to the classroom. Teachers also received classroom library books tailored to their grade level and content area as a symbol of our continued support.

Congratulations to our induction class on a fantastic first year. The future is bright, and 7Shines because of educators like you!

Cheers to the MANY years of dedicated service given by our 2026 District 7 retirees!

We had the honor of celebrating an extraordinary group of educators and staff members whose impact on District 7 will be felt for generations to come. Together with family, friends, and colleagues, we gathered for our annual retiree's dinner to reflect on careers filled with purpose, compassion, leadership, and love for students.

From classrooms to counseling offices, from nursing stations to school leadership, and from special services to district operations, these individuals helped shape the heart of D7 and opened doors of opportunity for countless students along the way. We are so proud they chose to make District 7 their home.

Special thanks to our talented student musicians from Spartanburg High School, whose music made the evening even more meaningful and provided the perfect soundtrack for such a special celebration.

Our retirees include:

EP Todd School — Alice Scoggins, Kindergarten Teacher; Clay Erps, Fifth Grade Teacher; Monica Hunter, Social Worker; Lynn Miller, Montessori Teacher Assistant; Vanessa Norman, Assistant Principal; and Cheryl Peterson, 5K Teacher Assistant

Mary H. Wright Elementary — Cindy Haggerty, Media Specialist

McCracken Middle — Janet Kuntz, Band Director

Spartanburg High School — Deloris Culbertson, PE Teacher; Lisa Donnahoo, Math Teacher; Jeff Kuntz, Orchestra Director; and Julia Potter, ELA Teacher

McCarthy Teszler — Kay Bracey, Special Services Teacher; Stella Brown, Special

Services Aide; and Tami Gilbert, Nurse

Special Services — Sandra Nabow, Special Services Aide

District Office — Donna Wiggs, Procurement

During the evening, Superintendent Jeff Stevens shared: “7Shines because of people like you. Through your dedication, compassion, and commitment to students, you’ve helped shape the culture and spirit of this district in ways that will continue long after retirement. Your impact lives on in the lives you changed, the colleagues you inspired, and the community you helped strengthen every single day.”

Congratulations and heartfelt thanks to our retirees. Your impact will always be part of District 7, and D7 will always be home.

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School Choice 5K Window

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First Day of School

Viking Athletics is bringing the HEAT this summer with a lineup of exciting sports camps at Spartanburg High School! Whether your child wants to spike, shoot, cheer, or swing for the fences, there’s a camp for every young athlete.

Baseball Camp | June 1–3

Lady Vikings Sports Camp | June 8–11

Viking Cheer Kiddie Camp | June 8–11

Soccer Camp | June 8–11

Wrestling Camp | June 8 -11

Locations include the Viking Arena, Viking Athletic Fields, Viking Wrestling Facilities and Duncan Park. Spots will fill fast—get more info and register now at: www.hubcitylocker.com/vikings

Come train with the best, make memories, and stay active all summer long!

GO VIKINGS!

Stay connected to everything happening in District 7 — right from your phone! 📱✨

The Spartanburg District 7 app puts important information at your fingertips, making it easier than ever to stay in the know. From school news and event calendars to lunch menus, staff directories, and real-time notifications, the app is your one-stop connection to D7.

Simply search “Spartanburg District 7” in the App Store or Google Play to download the app, then personalize your experience by following your child’s school(s) and turning on notifications so you never miss an update.

Download the new D7 app now to start exploring:

• App Store link
• Google Play link

Want to make the most of the app? Watch the quick video above for tips on customizing your settings and exploring all the features available to you.

And don’t forget to connect with us on social media for even more District 7 news and celebrations:

• Facebook: SpartanburgD7
• Instagram: @spartanburgd7
• YouTube: @SpartanburgSchoolDistrict7