News Summary
Students in Spartanburg returned to Mary H. Wright Elementary, McCracken Middle, and Dorman High Schools, embracing a new school year with energy and excitement. Teachers facilitated activities to promote a welcoming environment. Families engaged in positive interactions with staff and public safety officials during the morning drop-off. Schools focused on helping students acclimate to their surroundings, with particular support for those transitioning from other regions. Educators highlighted community partnerships and commitment to fostering a nurturing atmosphere for learning as the new academic year begins.
Spartanburg kicked off the 2023-2024 school year with enthusiasm as students returned to Mary H. Wright Elementary, McCracken Middle, and Dorman High Schools. Children donned new clothes and backpacks, while teachers facilitated get-to-know-each-other activities to promote a welcoming school environment.
At Mary H. Wright Elementary, first-grader Braeden Black expressed his eagerness to begin the school year through his shirt that read, “I’m ready for school, but is school ready for me?” Principal Tammy Jordan highlighted the significance of helping students acclimate to school routines and procedures, emphasizing the school’s tradition of robust community partnerships and support.
As families arrived at the school at 7 a.m., City of Spartanburg Fire Chief Pierre Brewton greeted them, fostering positive interactions between children and public safety officials. Art teacher Jaron Sanders played a key role in assisting families navigate the school, ensuring a smooth transition for returning students.
Meanwhile, at McCracken Middle School, eighth-grader Leo McCall faced the challenges of adapting to his new environment after moving from Georgia. The larger school proved daunting as he managed class changes. Assistant Principal Rebecca Miller remarked on the extensive planning undertaken in July to ensure a well-organized first day, which involved coordination with maintenance and custodial staff to prepare the school’s facilities for student arrival.
At both McCracken Middle and Dorman High, teachers engaged students through ice-breaker activities and personal introductions, promoting a comfortable atmosphere for learning. Sixth-grade concert choir students at McCracken Middle started their day on a melodious note with their teachers leading roll call, creating an inviting musical environment to welcome everyone back.
At Dorman High School, which ranks among the largest in South Carolina, the first day presented its own unique challenges, as many students sought assistance in locating their classrooms. Senior class president Karis Burgess shared the excitement felt by students returning to a familiar, family-like atmosphere at the school. English Language Arts teacher Jessica Guy put extra effort into making new students feel safe and welcomed, advocating for a class motto centered around spreading positivity and support.
Principal Bryant Roberson, who boasts 28 years of educational experience, expressed that he still feels a thrill on the first day of school, describing the atmosphere as infectious among both staff and students. He, along with other educators, remains committed to nurturing a supportive and engaging learning environment for all students.
As the summer break in South Carolina comes to a close, families are adapting to the new school year. Some school districts commenced the academic year as early as July, prompting parents to purchase school supplies and adjust work schedules for timely drop-offs and pick-ups. Educational institutions across the region are poised to embrace another year of learning, community engagement, and academic growth.
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Additional Resources
- Goupstate: Teachers and Principals Welcome Students Back
- Wikipedia: Spartanburg
- Greenville Online: SC Students Back to School Schedule
- Google Search: South Carolina back to school 2025
- WSPA: Spartanburg District 3 Starts School Year
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Fox Carolina: Spartanburg Co School Board Approves Referendum
- Google News: Spartanburg School Year 2025
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
