Families across the Upstate braved Monday morning’s stormy weather to kick off a new year of learning. Greenville County Schools and Spartanburg Districts 1-7 had their first day of classes on Aug. 11.
Between the Greenville County School System and Spartanburg District 5, thousands of students in Greer, from kindergarten to twelve grade, made their way to class.
“There’s nothing quite like seeing those first smiles and hearing the buzz of conversation as they walk in, reconnect with friends and meet their teachers,” said David Langston, Principal of Crestview Elementary. “... It reminds all of us why we do what we do.”
Many students could be seen throughout the halls doing exactly that — reconnecting with each other and enjoying the familiar environment of their schools. It’s not all familiar, though, with many schools in the area experiencing enrollment increases and various construction projects.
Langston has been the principal at Crestview for over 15 years. In his time at the school, it has seen not only greater enrollment numbers, but also greater academic growth. According to Langston, Crestview students’ performance on state standardized tests has more than doubled over the last period.
“Each school year brings new opportunities to strengthen both our academic programs and our sense of community,” Langston said. “This year, I hope to see our school continue to grow as a place where every child feels known, supported and challenged.”
Students and family walk into Fountain Inn Elementary on Monday, Aug. 11 for their first day back.
Other elementary schools in the area have also been looking into how to improve academics for their students. This year, Fountain Inn Elementary is emphasizing its commitment to deep learning opportunities. Their mission statement for the year is “Positive Climate. Deep Learning. High Achievement.”
“Our teachers focus on creating opportunities for students to make connections and apply knowledge in meaningful ways,” Jessica Preisig, Principal at Fountain Inn Elementary, said. “When students engage in deep learning, they think critically, solve problems and explore ideas from multiple perspectives. They’re not just learning what something is, but why it matters and how it relates to the world around them.”
Middle and high school students in the area started back on Monday, as well. Many of Greer High School’s students walked through the doors for the very first time, prepared to start their high school journey. They weren’t fully alone, either — Andrew Baker, Principal at Greer High, embarked on his first year in the new role.
“I’m proud to step into a school with such a strong foundation of success,” Baker said. “In recent years, Greer High has seen remarkable academic growth. Our graduation rate is the highest it has ever been, and our students are leaving us prepared for both college and careers.”
Greer High School seniors pose in the cafeteria in their hand-painted jeans.
He continued: “... My goal is for our students to come to school each day knowing they belong, discovering their purpose and building the skills and confidence they need for the future.”
Baker’s goal is personal, too, being an alumnus of Greer High, himself.
Blue Ridge High School’s principal, Ashley Wardlaw, is also an alumnus of her school. She, her husband and her father are all graduates of Blue Ridge — making the mission of the school that much more important to her.
“Blue Ridge High is truly a special place,” Wardlaw said. “Our school is reaching new heights academically, athletically and artistically.”
She continued: “We hope to continue on our path to excellence. We plan to continue to break barriers and provide the best possible environment for all of our students and staff.”
Over in Spartanburg District Five, Byrnes High School students were greeted by a school buzzing with activity. Byrnes is currently undergoing “phase three” of its construction — adding more instructional and multipurpose spaces to the school.
Thomas Barber, the 2025 Byrnes High School teacher of the year, stands at the front of his Spanish class on the first day of school.
Construction has been a theme of the district, which recently announced a $200 million bond referendum for construction and expansion projects. The school also opened a new football stadium, set to hold its first game next Friday, Aug. 22.
“We’re excited to get started and to welcome our students and faculty back into the building,” Erin Greenway, Principal of Byrnes High, said. “We have a lot of excitement this year with the opening of the new stadium and the continuation of our construction project, and are just ready to make this the best year ever.”
To stay up to date on the happenings in Greenville County Schools and Spartanburg District Five, visit their websites.
Follow Breanna Laws on X @GreerByBreanna
