News Summary
Pinecrest Elementary School in Greenwood has been honored as a 2024 National ESEA Distinguished School for exceptional student performance and academic growth. The school advanced from an average rating to excellent, scoring 79 within a year, reflecting the hard work of students, teachers, and families. Amid celebrations, the Greenwood County School District is also seeking a new superintendent due to Dr. Steve Glenn’s upcoming retirement. Furthermore, zoning changes for Mathews Elementary School and financial challenges pose considerations for the district’s future.
Exciting Times in Greenwood as Pinecrest Elementary Shines Bright
Greenwood, a charming community known for its schools, celebrated a proud moment recently as Pinecrest Elementary School was recognized at the National ESEA Conference in Austin, Texas. Pinecrest earned the prestigious title of 2024 National ESEA Distinguished School for its outstanding academic achievements. This accolade is particularly special as it showcases the school’s remarkable progress, moving up in rating from Average to an impressive Excellent with a score of 79 in just one year. That’s no small feat!
Honors and Recognition
The school was honored specifically under Category 1: Schools Exhibiting Exceptional Student Performance and Academic Growth. Representatives from Pinecrest were ecstatic to accept the award at the conference, reinforcing the excellence that is being fostered within their walls. The recognition is not just a victory for the school, but for students, teachers, and families who contribute daily to such a vibrant learning environment.
Leadership Transition on the Horizon
175 people participated in focus groups, and an impressive 782 filled out the online survey. The feedback showed a strong preference for a transparent and visible leader who values the contributions of teachers and brings classroom experience to the table. The board aims to have a new superintendent selected by late May, with hopes of a start date in July. If the right candidate isn’t found, they may appoint an interim superintendent to guide the way.
Community Changes Ahead
In another matter, the board is currently reviewing a proposal from Ryan Homes, a developer aiming to adjust zoning for students on both sides of Highway 178 to Mathews Elementary School. This change could open up new opportunities for families, as Mathews Elementary has the capacity to accommodate more students if the zoning shifts receive approval.
Financial Matters on the Table
Changes in Gifted and Talented Programs
With these developments, Greenwood’s educational community aims to embrace both its triumphs and challenges. It’s a time of change, but also a moment to shine as the district continues to prioritize student success and uphold educational excellence. The future looks bright for Pinecrest Elementary and the entire Greenwood County School District.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Superintendent Retirement Announcement
- Index Journal: Superintendent Search Plans
- WYFF: District 50 Superintendent Retirement
- News Leader: David Geurin Lead Announcement
- Index Journal: Superintendent Search Begins
- Wikipedia: Greenwood County, South Carolina
- Google Search: Greenwood School District 50
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American Education
- Google News: Greenwood Education
- Google Scholar: Educational Leadership
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood 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 Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
