ORIENTATIONS AND PROCEDURES

Alice Drive Elementary School
Principal: Eric Masaitis
Address: 251 Alice Drive, Sumter, SC 29150
Phone: (803) 775-0857   Fax: (803) 775-7580
School Day: 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
http://ade.sumterschools.net

Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year at ADE! We will #BeeUnited this year! Student Orientation will be held Wednesday, July 30 according to the following schedule:

• PreK, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
• 2nd and 3rd Grade: 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
• 4th and 5th Grade: 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Class rosters will be posted in the hallways and by the classrooms. Students and parents will report to the child’s assigned classroom to meet the teacher. Tables will be set up in the cafeteria to join the PTO, register for after school care, learn how to volunteer, purchase school shirts, or pick up other information. Additional parking will be available at Westminster Presbyterian Church across the street from the school.  

Thursday, July 31 is the first day of school for grades 1-5. Thursday, August 7 is the first full day of school for prekindergarten and kindergarten students. Prekindergarten (CERDEP) teachers will utilize the week of July 31 - August 6 to conduct the academic portions of the GOLD testing with a smaller group of students each day. Kindergarten teachers will also utilize the week of July 31 - August 6 to conduct the academic portions of the KRA testing with a smaller group of students each day. Parents/guardians will be contacted by their children's teachers to schedule an appointment time and date for testing. 

Drop-off/Pick-Up Procedures: The doors open at 7:00 a.m. School begins at 7:30 a.m. All students should be dropped off and picked up at the circular drive on Alice Drive. Parents who wish to drop off or pick up their child on foot may park at Westminster Presbyterian Church and walk to our flagpole. For everyone’s safety, only parents who need to enter the school building should park in our parking lots. Please do not drop off or pick up a child anywhere but the designated circular drive.

Cherryvale Elementary School
Principal:  Mrs. Debra Healey
Address: 1420 Furman Drive, Sumter, SC 29154
Phone:  (803) 494-8200/ Fax: (803) 494-8233
School Day: 7:30 a.m. - 2:15 p.m.
Website: http://ces.sumterschools.net

At Cherryvale Elementary School, we are “United in Purpose, Inspired by Students!”  Our Meet the Teacher/Orientation Event will be held on Wednesday, July 30 from 1:30 - 3:30 PM.  Join us to meet your teacher and other staff members, learn your grade level’s color, order a school t-shirt, verify drop off/pick up procedures, join our School Improvement Council (SIC), sign up to be a volunteer, learn about upcoming Family and Community Engagement (FACE) events and learn everything you need to know for the first day of school! 

Every Cherryvale Elementary School student will receive a backpack with school supplies during the first week of school attendance.  As many of them look alike, please take the time to label your child’s backpack with their name when they bring it home.  Within the first two weeks of school, chromebooks will be distributed to students.

An Open House event will be held on Thursday, August 21 from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. More information for the event will be placed on Cherryvale Elementary School’s website, social media pages, and sent home with students.

Breakfast is served each day from 7:00 until 7:20 a.m. In order to participate, students must arrive before 7:15 a.m. Breakfast and lunch are free for all students.

Drop-off/pick-up procedures for students who are car riders will remain the same when we return for the 2025-2026 school year. During morning hours, parents must drop off car riders at the front entrance of the building.  During afternoon hours, they must pick up students at the back of the building. The school building opens daily at 7:00 a.m. to welcome students.

The administration and the staff of Cherryvale Elementary School are looking forward to building and maintaining relationships with our students and families, so that together we can ensure that all of our Falcons are soaring HIGH and reaching their full potential! 

Crosswell Drive Elementary School
Principal: Dr. Shawn P. Hagerty
Address: 301 Crosswell Drive, Sumter, SC 29150
Phone: (803) 775-0679 Fax: (803) 778-2857
School Day: 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Website: http://cdes.sumterschools.net
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrosswellDriveElementary

The faculty and staff of Crosswell Drive Elementary welcome all students and families to our 2025-2026 school year.  We are committed to academic excellence and continually strive to meet the needs of each individual student.  The instructional day will begin promptly at 7:30 a.m., and we will begin dismissal procedures at 2:00 p.m. daily. Breakfast will be served promptly from 6:50 to 7:20 a.m. each morning. 

All student supplies (except bookbags) will be provided throughout the school year.  For up-to-date information please like our Facebook page or contact the school directly.

Back2School Orientation: Crosswell Drive Elementary will host a Title I Back2School Orientation on Wednesday, July 30 from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Parents are encouraged to receive their child’s schedule and meet their child’s teacher.

NO CELLPHONE POLICY:  Student cellphones are not allowed on campus. Parents must write a note requesting their child have their phone if needed for any after dismissal contact. Any phone brought without written parent permission will be collected and returned at dismissal unless multiple offenses occur.

Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures: Drop-off time for car riders will begin at 6:50 a.m.  Car riders should be dropped off and picked up from designated drop-off and pick-up areas only.  No front entrance drop-offs or pick-ups are allowed during on-time arrival and dismissal procedures.  Please refer to the Parent/Student Handbook for further information. No students will be allowed to exit the building through the main entrance.  There is to be no parent parking in the front of the building near the front entrance, on Bowman Street or walker dismissal doors for the purpose of picking up students at dismissal.  Parents cannot pick children up on Bowman.  Bowman must remain clear of all cars.  All “walkers” will need to leave the campus on foot.  Once students are dismissed they are not allowed to return to campus.

Early Dismissal

Our instructional day ends at 2:00 p.m., and students are engaged in learning activities until the very end of their school day.  Please help us protect each child’s valuable instructional time by refraining from checking your child out early.  We ask that you do not sign your child out for early dismissal after 1 p.m. unless for medical reasons or emergencies. This gives sufficient time for your child to be ready for dismissal . The front office will not hold students after this time to maintain safety.

Dress Code:  (NEW) NO HOODIES Allowed!! Hoodless sweatshirts allowed.

Students will dress and groom in a clean and neat manner which does not distract or interfere with the operation of the school. Student attire should not be immodest or revealing and should comply with requirements for health and safety. Clothing that will cause or is likely to cause disruption of the learning process of others may not be worn.  We will contact you if the administration deems a dress code violation.  Please be accommodating when we contact as we will do everything we can here prior to contacting.

• ‘Pedicure-style’ flip-flops, flip-flops that can easily be torn apart, slides,bubble slides, bubble shoes with or w/o straps, footies, pajamas, house shoes or bedroom slippers (students must wear appropriate footwear at all times; shoes will be worn for safety and health reasons; no person should be barefoot at school; shoes, sneakers, boots, etc., must be laced up and tied; crocs must be worn with the heel strap in the downward position or "sport mode."
• Shorts, short skirts, skorts, etc., must be no shorter than three inches above the knee.
• Shirts may not be knotted or tied off in the front or back using rubber bands. No see through or sheer garments may be worn. Shirts must cover students' entire belly and back.
• Lycra or spandex clothing or any excessively tight clothing (leggings may be worn under shorts or dresses provided that the shorts or dresses meet the length standard of no shorter than three inches above the knee).
• Jeans or pants with holes may be worn only when the holes are not deemed indecent. Holes must be below the pocket and must not be large or near the pockets. No undergarments should be seen through the holes.
• No sagging pants, shorts, skirts, etc. are allowed. These items should be worn above the hip.
• Belts must be kept buckled so pants do not sag and undergarments are showing. Belts are required for pants. Suspenders or overall straps must be hooked and kept on shoulders.
• Any student found to be in violation of the dress code will be required to report to the office to call someone to bring an appropriate change of clothes and/or to receive disciplinary action.
• Any attire deemed by the administration to be unsuitable or disruptive to the educational or cultural climate of the school.

Return to School 

Students in 1st-5th grade  return to school on Thursday, July 31. The first full day of school for prekindergarten and kindergarten students is Thursday, August 7. Prekindergarten (CERDEP) teachers will utilize the week of August 4-8 to conduct the academic portions of the GOLD testing with a smaller group of students each day. Kindergarten teachers will also utilize the week of August 4-8th to conduct the academic portions of the KRA testing with a smaller group of students each day. Parents/guardians will be contacted by their children's teachers to schedule an appointment time and date for testing the week of August 4-8.

High Hills Elementary School
Principal: Mrs. Kathy Lyons
Address: 1705 Frierson Road, Shaw AFB, SC 29152
Phone: (803) 499-3327 Fax: (803) 499-9553
School Day: 7:30 a.m. - 205 p.m.
School Website:  https://hhes.sumterschools.net/ 
School Facebook Page;  https://www.facebook.com/hhesgopanthers 

The faculty and staff of High Hills Elementary School are excited to welcome all new and returning students and their families to the 2025–2026 school year!  The first day of school is Thursday, July 31.  High Hills, proud Home of the Panthers, is a Leader in Me School serving only 4th and 5th grade students. We believe that "Small Paws Make Big Impressions!"

Back-to-School Orientation:
All students and families are invited to attend our Back-to-School Orientation on Wednesday, July 30 from 3:30 to 5:30 PM.  Families should report to the cafeteria upon arrival. From there, students and their families will participate in a fun and informative scavenger hunt around the school. Along the way, they’ll meet teachers, complete important paperwork, and learn about school expectations.  Panther Pride t-shirts will be available for purchase during the event.  Thanks to our Title I funding, classroom supplies and materials have already been purchased; however, teachers may share a small wish list of optional items for those who would like to donate to their class.  We can’t wait to see all of our Panthers and their families!

Arrival/Dismissal Procedures

• Drop-off: 7:00 – 7:30 AM
• Breakfast: 7:00 – 7:25 AM
• Pick-up: 2:15 PM

Students walking or riding bikes from Base Housing may enter through the back gate beginning at 7:00 AM.  Car rider drop-off begins at 7:00 AM when adult supervision is available. For safety reasons, please use only the designated parent drop-off line. Do not park in the lot to drop off students.  Students are considered tardy after 7:30 AM, and parents must walk them into the attendance office to sign them in.

To help with traffic flow and safety:

• Enter the school by making a right turn off Frierson Road into the parking lot.
• Stay to the right and follow the traffic pattern around to the front of the school for drop-off.
• Do not drop students off in the parking lot or along Frierson Road.

Afternoon pick-up will follow the same procedures:

• Parents must remain in the car line to pick up students.
• The office will not call for students to be picked up from the front office.
• Students may not be signed out after 1:45 PM.

This year, we will be using PickUp Patrol to automate our dismissal process. You will receive more information about our new system during Back to School Orientation.

We look forward to a “PAWSOME” year of learning, growth, and leadership!

Kingsbury Elementary School
Principal:  Phillip Jackson
Address:   825 Kingsbury Road, Sumter, SC 29154
Phone: (803) 775-6244 Fax: (803) 775-7021
School Day: 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
http://kbe.sumterschools.net

Kingsbury Elementary School will host a Back to School Orientation program for students and parents on Wednesday, July 30 according to the following schedule: 8:30 a.m. for kindergarten and third grade students; 9:30 a.m. for first and fourth grade students; and 10:30 a.m. for prekindergarten, second, and fifth grade students. Parents and students are asked to come to the commons area upon arrival. Classroom assignments will be posted there.  Then, you will report directly to your child’s classroom.   

Thursday, July 31 is the first day of school for students in grades 1-5. Thursday, August 7 is the first full day of school for prekindergarten and kindergarten students.  Prekindergarten (CERDEP) teachers will utilize the week of July 31-August 6 to conduct the academic portions of the GOLD/DIAL 4 testing with a smaller group of students each day.  Kindergarten teachers will also utilize the week of July 31-August 6 to conduct the academic portions of the KRA testing with smaller groups each day.  Parents/guardians will be contacted by their children’s teachers to schedule an appointment time and date for testing. Additional information will be shared at our Back to School Orientation.

Lemira Elementary School
Principal: Mrs. Stephanie Gregg, Ed.S.
952 Fulton Street
Sumter, SC 29153
(803) 775-0658 / Fax (803) 778-2730
Instructional Day: 7:30 a.m - 2:15 pm ; Office Hours: 6:50 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Lme.sumterschools.net (website) ; https://www.facebook.com/LemiraLionDynasty (Facebook)  @LemiraSchool (Twitter handle)

Orientations:

Lemira Elementary School is excited to open its doors to students for the 2025-2026 school year. To kick off the school year, we will host our back to school bash and grade level orientations Wednesday, July 30. The event will take place from 4-6 p.m. for all grade levels (PreK - 5th). Class rosters will be available and posted. Lemira will be using its Title One funds to purchase students’ school supplies for the 25-26 school school year.

We will also host a Jumpstart camp for all new students Tuesday, July 29 from⋅5:00pm – 6:30 p.m. All registered new students are asked to reserve their spots. Please visit our website for the registration link. 

Instructional Day:

Thursday, July 31 is the first day of school for grades 1-12. Thursday, August 7 is the first full day of school for prekindergarten and kindergarten students.  Prekindergarten (CERDEPP) teachers will utilize the week of July 31 - August 6 to conduct the academic portions of the GOLD testing with a smaller group of students each day. Kindergarten teachers will also utilize the week of July 31 - August 6  to conduct the academic portions of the KRA testing with a smaller group of students each day. Parents/guardians will be contacted by their children's teachers to schedule an appointment time and date for testing. 

Instruction begins daily at 7:30 a.m. for all grade levels. Students should arrive on campus no earlier than 6:50 a.m. and no later than 7:30 a.m. to avoid being tardy. Chromebooks will be used for the 2025-2026 school year. Students are encouraged to bring charged laptops to school on a daily basis. If you are in need of technical assistance, please call the school for technical support.

Dress Code:

Students must follow the Sumter School District dress code.  (Policy AR JICA-R Student Dress Code)

Office Hours:

If you are in need of assistance, office hours are from 6:50 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Drop-off/Pick-Up Procedures:

All students may be dropped off in the morning at the traffic circle in front of the school’s entrance on Fulton Street and exit on the Boulevard Road. Parents are reminded to not drop students off before 6:50 a.m. For student’s safety, parents are reminded not to drop their children off in the grassy area across the street from the school on Fulton Street. During pick-up, all car riders will be dismissed through the gate under the breezeway using their car numbers. Each student will be provided with numbered car tags and book bag tags. Parents arriving without a car tag number will be asked to go into the office to have their credentials verified. Parents will not be allowed to walk up to the car pick up gate to retrieve students, and students will not be permitted to cross Fulton street to walk to their rides, for safety is our number one priority.

Principal: Brandon Wells
Address: 200 West Clark Street, Pinewood
Phone: 803-452-5454
School Day: 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
http://mes.sumterschools.net

Welcome back to the 2025-2026 school year Manchester Panther Families! We would like to announce for the 2025-2026 school year we will continue AVID -Advancement Via Individual Determination schoolwide (Prekindergarten through Grade 5). The goal of AVID is to utilize best practices and systems to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society. An important part of our implementation will be our student led events, school agendas (calendars) and 3-ring binders for all students. 

The first day of school for first through fifth grade students is Thursday, July 31. Prekindergarten and kindergarten students' first day of school is Thursday, August 7. Our Prekindergarten and kindergarten teachers will contact you to schedule appointments to complete early screening and beginning of the year assessments during the week of August 4-8. Registration is open for all students in prekindergarten through Grade 5.

To help prepare for the new school year, we would like to cordially invite all of our families to attend our Back To School Orientation on Wednesday, July 30. Prekindergarten, Kindergarten, First grade and Second grade students and their parents/guardians may drop in anytime between 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. Third through fifth grade students and their parents/guardians may drop in between 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Each classroom teacher will send a postcard to welcome all of our students to their new classrooms. 

We are pleased to announce that once again this year, all necessary school supplies will be purchased through our Title I project. The only thing not provided are student backpacks. Rolling bookbags are not recommended and not needed at the elementary level. 

Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures: Students may be dropped off under the awning in our

parent drop-off/pick-up line after 6:50 a.m. All students will be offered a free, nutritious breakfast beginning at 6:50 a.m. The tardy bell rings at 7:30 a.m. Students arriving after 7:30 a.m. must be signed in at the front office by an adult. Student pick-up begins at the front of the school under the awning at 2:15 p.m. In order to keep all students safe, we ask parents to remain in their cars and use their assigned parent pick-up number when picking up students. Please use 5th Street beside Dollar General to begin the car pick-up line.

 For more information, please call our school. You may also like our Facebook page or go to our school website. We look forward to seeing all of our Manchester Panthers very soon. Panthers Have AVID-TUDE!

Principal: Joshua Campbell
Address: 24 Pinewood Road Sumter, SC 29150
Phone: (803) 775-0648 Fax: (803) 436-2987
School Hours:  7:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Website: http://mwe.sumterschools.net

Millwood Elementary School, where Attendance, Academics, and Behavior are our top priorities, is gearing up for an exciting 2025-2026 school year! We are intentionally providing our students with the best experiences as it relates to teaching and learning, and we are committed to always putting our students first in a safe learning environment.

We are excited to announce that we will begin working with Franklin Covey as a Leader In Me school. Our morning meeting time starts at 7:30 a.m. in each classroom, and in the second half of the school year students will begin to learn and incorporate the 7 Habits of Highly Effective students. The morning meeting time will be an integral part of the process, so please ensure your students are arriving on time each day for this valuable instruction!  

Back to School Orientation/Drop In: Millwood Elementary's Back-to-School Orientation will be held on July 30 from 12–3 p.m. This drop-in event is open to all students.  Kindergarten have an orientation in the cafeteria starting at 12:00 p.m. and then break out to their classes.  All other grades will report directly to the classrooms.    Class rosters will be posted up front and in each grade-level hallway. Free school supplies for all children who attend Millwood will be available in classrooms. This is a drop in time so please plan to stay up to 30 minutes to visit your child’s classroom, meet the teachers, complete transportation and medication forms, and share pertinent information necessary for your child’s success and safety. 

Thursday, July 31 is the first day of school for grades 1-5. Pre-Kindergarten (CERDEP) and Kindergarten begin full days on Thursday, August 7. From August 1-7, Pre-Kindergarten students will complete the academic portion of the GOLD assessment, while Kindergarten students will complete the KRA assessment, both in small groups. Parents/guardians will be contacted by their children's teachers to schedule a testing appointment during the week of July 31st - August 6th. 

Drop-off and Pick-up Procedures: For the safety of our students, please give special attention to the following information regarding arrival and dismissal.

ARRIVAL: The earliest drop off time is 7 a.m. for bus riders, car riders, and walkers. Students who arrive after 7:30 a.m. must be accompanied by an adult to the front office, where they will need to be signed in as tardy. Students are not permitted to sign themselves in; Please park upfront and walk into the front office to complete the sign-in process. 

Students in PreK-1st grades (along with their older siblings) should be dropped off at the Horseshoe Drop Off (which is located across from Food Lion on Wedgefield Road). 

Students in 2nd-5th grades should be dropped off on Mustang Drive. Please utilize the entrance closest to the digital sign to help with the flow of traffic. 

DISMISSAL: Dismissal begins at 2:00 p.m. The latest pickup time is 2:30 pm. No student will have early dismissal after 1:45 p.m. Parents will be issued two dismissal tags; Anyone without the physical pickup tag must go to the main office at 2:30 p.m. to pick up a student. An official ID is required, and the person must be listed on the student’s contact list.

PreK, Kindergarten, and First Grade students will be picked up in the parking lot off Wedgefield Road (across from Food Lion) called the Horseshoe. Older siblings should go to the Horseshoe for pickup if they have a sibling in Pre-K, Kindergarten, or 1st grade.

Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth  Grade students will be picked up on Mustang Drive off of Pinewood Road. Utilize the main parking lot entrance closest to the digital sign to help with the flow of traffic. 

Breakfast and Lunch: All students are eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch daily in the cafeteria. Breakfast is served starting at 7:00 am and ends promptly at 7:35 am. Lunch and recess times vary by teacher.

All students will receive information pertaining to our policies and procedures on their first full day of school.  Please make sure to look it over and return documents that require a parent signature. The entire Millwood Elementary School staff looks forward to another successful year as we are #Leading the Way!

Oakland Primary School
Principal:  Jessica C. Wright, ED.S. 
Address:  5415 Oakland Drive, Sumter, SC 29154
Phone: (803) 499-3366 /Fax: (803) 499-3361
School Day:  7:30 a.m.– 2:15 p.m.
http://ops.sumterschools.net

The school day begins daily at 7:30 a.m. and ends at 2:00 p.m.  Students reporting later than 7:30 a.m. will be marked absent and parents are required to sign students in at the front office so the absence can be changed to tardy. Breakfast is served daily from 6:50 until 7:20 a.m. Note: Students who wish to eat breakfast should be dropped off no later than 7:10 a.m. in order to have time to eat before going to class.  Student drop off begins at 6:50 a.m. 

Jump Camp: Class rosters will be posted Wednesday July 30, the day of our Back-to-School Jump Camp, which is scheduled from 12:00 noon - 3:00 p..m. This is a drop in, so please plan to spend about 30 minutes in the classroom filling out information as well as completing an activity with your child. You will be able to pick up your parent pick-up cards. We will also have booths set up with information regarding bus transportation and day care for before and after school care if needed. Copies of the school supply wish list can be found on the school’s website or Facebook page. Students in 1^st grade return to school on Thursday July 31st.

The first full day of school for prekindergarten and kindergarten students is Thursday, August 7th. Kindergarten and prekindergarten teachers will utilize the week of July 31st- August 6th to conduct the academic portions of the KRA and GOLD testing with a smaller group of students each day. Parents/guardians will be contacted by their children's teachers to schedule an appointment time and date for testing. Independence day at OPS will take place on August 11th. Everyone is asked to wear red, white and blue to celebrate the students' new independence. After this date we respectfully require that all parents allow students to walk to class independently. We will designate a hug and kiss zone for parents to say their goodbyes for the day.  

Parents are asked to pin a small piece of paper on their child the first day of school with the child’s name, telephone number, and bus numbers if applicable.  If the child will be picked up daily, please indicate parent pick up or the name of the daycare that will pick the child up.

Drop Off/Pick Up Procedures: For drop off, stay in the right-hand lane and pull up as far as you can to a staff member if you are only dropping off.  If you wish to park and walk your child to the door, please stay in the left-hand lane and park in the parent parking lot and cross to the sidewalk at either end of the parking lot.  You may then walk to the hug and kiss zone to drop off your child.  An OPS staff member will be available for assistance.

For parent pick up, you will be issued two cards with a number specific to your child.  These can be made for you at our Jump Camp on the 30^st of July.  Please make sure to have your card daily to pick up your child. If you do not have the card, you will be asked to go to the main office to pick up your child with a valid ID.  You may either wait in the line that forms from the right lane, or walk up to pick your child up from a classroom located near the drop-off/pick-up location. We will not sign students out between 1:45 PM and 2:15 PM due to safety and accountability for all students. Our children require a great deal of supervision and monitoring to ensure they get to their next destination safely. 

On the first day of school, the students will receive a packet of information to share with parents.  Please complete all requested forms and return them to the school the following day, especially concerning emergency contact/allergies information.  Please check the school’s website (ops.sumterschools.net) or the Oakland Primary School Facebook page for the supply lists and other pertinent information as we get closer to the start of the 2025-2026 school year. We are looking forward to an exciting and rewarding school year as we continue to educate the whole child!

Pocalla Springs Elementary
Principal:  Michelle Curry-McBride
Address:   2060 Bethel Church Road, Sumter, SC 29154  
Phone:  803-481-5800     Fax:  803-481-5813
School Day:  7:30 AM - 2:15 PM
http://pses.sumterschools.net

Welcome to Pocalla Springs Elementary! We are anticipating an amazing 2025-2026 school year filled with excitement and learning. Our mascot is Corey the Croc and our school colors are green, yellow and white. 

Registration Information:

It is important to register new students, prekindergarten, and kindergarten students early.  Registration can take place online on Pocalla’s website http://pses.sumterschools.net or at the main office. All registrations require the student’s birth certificate, immunization record, picture ID of parent/guardian and two proofs of address (utility bill or lease agreement, for example). 

Orientation:

Orientation in grades PreK-5 will be held on Wednesday, July 30 according to the following schedule: Orientation will begin at 1 PM for grades PreK-2nd. Orientation for grades 3rd-5th will begin at 3 PM. Students and parents will meet teachers, view bus schedules, locate classrooms and receive other information.  Post cards will be sent home prior to orientation with the teacher’s name of your child. Staff members will be available to assist students with finding their homerooms. PreK- 2^nd grades (Gate 2) will enter through the main entrance. 3rd-5th grades (Gate 1), will enter through the Palmetto Room. Directional signs will be posted. 

Instructional Day:

The first day of school for students in grades 1st-5th is Thursday, July 31. Prekindergarten and kindergarten students will test during the week of July 31-August 6. There will be a staggered schedule for prekindergarten and kindergarten students who will only come to school during their appointment time for testing. August 7 will be the first day of school for all prekindergarten and kindergarten students. The school day is from 7:30 a.m. - 2:15 p.m. 

The main office will not be open until 7:30 a.m. and closes at 3:30 p.m.

Drop-off/pick-up procedures:  To drop off students, enter (Gate 2) nearest the marquee and continue straight and follow the drop-off signs.  Drop-off time for car riders begins at 6:50 a.m. for students who wish to eat breakfast. Students are tardy after 7:30 a.m. After 7:30 a.m, parents will need to go to the main entrance and walk their child to the Attendance Office. Dismissal is at 2:15 p.m.  Car riders in prekindergarten through first grade and their siblings are picked up at the colored fences (drop-off area).  Car riders in second through fifth grade (Gate 1) are picked up at the covered area behind the cafeteria. 

Pocalla Springs is a Title I school. School supplies and a clear book bag will be furnished by the school throughout the year. Take-home school supplies will be given to parents during Orientation on July 30. Open House will be held on Thursday, September 4.  Please visit our Website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram often for the most up-to-date information.

Rafting Creek Elementary School
Principal:  Anita L. Hunter
Address:  4100 Highway 261 North, Rembert, SC 29128
Phone:  (803) 432-2994 Fax:  (803) 425-7386
School Day:  7:30 a.m.–2:15 p.m.
http://rces.sumterschools.net

Welcome to the  2025-2026 School Year! Orientation will be held Wednesday, July 30 from 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm.  Students and parents/guardians will have an opportunity to meet their child(ren) teacher(s).   Rafting Creek is a Title I school and school supplies will be furnished by the school throughout the year.  Supplies include but are limited to a bookbag, paper, pencils, crayons, markers, folders, and notebooks. 

Thursday, July 31 is the first school day for students in grades 1-5. Thursday, August 7 is the first full day of school for prekindergarten and kindergarten students.  Prekindergarten (CERDEP) teachers will utilize July 31 - August 6 to conduct the academic portions of the GOLD/DIAL 4 testing with a smaller group of students each day.  Kindergarten teachers will also utilize the week of August 1-7 to conduct the academic portions of the KRA testing with smaller groups each day.  Parents/guardians will be contacted by their children’s teachers to schedule an appointment time and date for testing. Additional information will be shared at Orientation on July 30. 

Open House and Fall Title I meeting will be held on August 14 from 6:00  - 7:00 p.m.

Breakfast and Lunch:

All students are eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch daily. Breakfast will begin at 7 a.m. and ends at 7:30 a.m. 

Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures:  Parents transporting their children to school must follow the signs to the rear drop-off point.  The student drop-off starts at  6:50 a.m. when adult supervision is available.   Car riders being dropped off after 7:25 a.m. must use the front entry.  Breakfast is served between 7:00 a.m. - 7:25 a.m.  Students are tardy after 7:30 a.m. and must be signed in at the attendance office by an adult.  Dismissal is at 2:15 p.m.  Car rider pick up is in the same location as car rider drop off.  We ask all car riders to be picked up by 2:25 p.m.  

Principal: Maria Dantzler
Address:   345 Eastern School Road, Sumter, SC  29153
Phone: 803-495-3247 Fax:  803-495-3211
School Day:  7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. 
Website: https://redcpa.sumterschools.net/
Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/REDavisCPA/ 

Vikings! Anchored in Learning, Driven to Lead!

Welcome Back for the 2025-2026 school year! We are excited to start a new year of learning at R.E. Davis College Preparatory Academy, where we are armed with our S.W.O.R.D. (Seeking excellence, Working hard, Observing rules and procedures, Respecting ourselves and others and Doing the right thing). Our school day will begin promptly at 7:30 a.m. and dismissal begins at 2:15 p.m. The first day of school for grades 1-8 is Thursday, July 31st. Students in prekindergarten and kindergarten will start on Thursday, August 8.

We will continue AVID -Advancement Via Individual Determination schoolwide. An important part of our implementation will be our student led events, school agendas (calendars) and 3-ring binders for all students. We are excited to announce that we will begin working with Franklin Covey as a Leader In Me School. Through Leader in Me we will foster a leadership-based culture that empowers students, strengthens academics and increases engagement.   

Back to School Orientation: For all preschool to 8th grade students, orientaion will be held Wednesday, July 30 from 12 - 3 p.m. Parents/guardians and students are asked to join the administration team in the cafeteria for the welcome address at noon. Students and parents/guardians will then have an opportunity to meet with the teacher, participate in classroom tours, get class schedules, important forms, transportation information and visit various school and community resource tables.  

School Supplies: Parents/guardians are asked to provide their child with a bookbag.  All other school supplies will be provided using our federal funds project.  It is recommended that your child have a water bottle. 

Uniforms: We do not have a mandatory uniform, but students are asked to adhere to the Sumter School District Dress Code. 

Drop-Off/Pick-Up Procedures: Morning drop-off time for car riders will begin from 7 - 7:30 a.m. at the main entrance. All students arriving after 7:30 a.m. should be signed in by a parent/guardian in the main office. The afternoon pickup location is at the front entrance near the gym. Each student/family will receive a car tag. Parents must have their tags visible at all times and should line up in two rows facing East. Students will only be permitted to load the car from the side closest to the building. We ask all car riders to be picked up by 2:35 p.m. 

 Join us for our Title 1 Fall Meeting and Open House, Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 5 p.m.

Principal: Mrs. Jennifer Barrett
Address: 1495 Frierson Road, Shaw AFB, SC 29152-1427
Phone:  (803) 666-2335/Fax:  (803) 666-3719
School Day:  7:30 a.m. - 2:15 p.m.  
http://shes.sumterschools.net

The school day begins at 7:30 a.m., and the tardy bell rings at 7:40 a.m. Car riders and walkers should arrive between  6:55 and 7:15 a.m. if they would like to eat breakfast as breakfast closes at 7:30 a.m. Class rosters will be posted the afternoon of July 30, 2025, the day of our back to school drop-in. Copies of the school supply wish list can be found on the school’s website or Facebook page, as well as in the front office. The back to school  drop-in will be held on Wednesday, July 30 from 1:30-3:30 p.m.  Parents may come to the school during this time to meet their child’s teacher, visit the classroom, join the PTO, sign up for a parent pick-up card, and purchase a school t-shirt. The cost for youth shirts is $10, and adult shirts cost $15. ACE water bottles/Koozies can be purchased for $3 while supplies last.  Fees owed previously will be accepted at this time as well. If your child still has library books please return them before the beginning of the school year so fees can be lifted. You can still get last years’ yearbook if you missed it.

Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures: Drop-off time for car riders will begin at 6:55 a.m. when adult supervision is provided. Car riders should be dropped off and picked up at the designated area to the left of the school in front of the cafeteria. Students should not be dropped off or picked up in front of the school; this area is designated for buses only.

Wilder Elementary
Principal:  Mr. Michael Riggins
Address:   975 South Main Street, Sumter, SC  29150
Phone: 803-773-5723   Fax: 803-778-2918
School Day: 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
1st Bell: 7:30 a.m.
Tardy Bell: 7:35 a.m.
http://wld.sumterschools.net

“Together We Grow, Together We Shine”

At Wilder Elementary School, students always come first. The staff is dedicated to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and supported. By celebrating each student's accomplishments—big or small—Wilder fosters a sense of pride and confidence in every learner. With a strong focus on care, encouragement, and recognition, Wilder Elementary helps every student thrive both academically and personally. 

Wilder Elementary School will host a “Jump Start” Back to School orientation for all students and parents Wednesday, July 30. Prekindergarten through 2nd grade will begin at 8:30 a.m. followed by 3rd through 5th grade at 9:30 a.m. Classroom assignments will be posted in several locations throughout the school. Parents and students will be invited to go directly to the classrooms.

The first day of school for 1st through 5th grades is Thursday, July 31, 2025.  The first day for prekindergarten and kindergarten students is Thursday, August 7, 2025.  Prekindergarten (CERDEP) teachers will utilize the week of July 31 - August 6 to conduct the academic portions of the GOLD testing with a smaller group of students each day.  Kindergarten teachers will also utilize the week of July 31 - August 6 to conduct the academic portions of the KRA testing with a smaller group of students each day.  Parents/Guardians will be contacted by their child’s teacher to schedule an appointment time and date for testing.

Breakfast is served for bus students as they arrive and for car riders from 7 until 7:35 a.m.  The tardy bell rings at 7:35 a.m.  Office hours are from 7:15 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures:  The horseshoe on S. Main Street is the only drop-off and pick-up area for car riders. Drop-off is no earlier than 7 a.m. in the front of the school. Parking spaces are provided for parents who must walk students to class or pick them up in the afternoon. If a parent has a conference, they should park in the parking spaces provided in the front of the school. All parents must report to the main office for a visitor pass.

All walkers will enter and exit through the two gates located on South Main. (Gates are located on the picnic shelter side of South Main and at the corner of South Main and Newberry.) The student’s address will determine which gate he or she will use in the afternoon. Parents should not park along the fence or in the church parking lot.  Parents should not walk through the exit to receive children.

All daycare and bus riders report to the bus port at the end of the 100 Building on Floral Avenue.  All Exceptional Ed. bus riders will report to the bus port on Floral Avenue (back of the school).

We can’t wait to see you!

Willow Drive Elementary School 
Principal: Jackqueline Thomas 
Address: 26 Willow Drive, Sumter, SC 29150 
Phone: (803) 773-5796 Fax: (803) 778-2847
School Day:  7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. 
http://wde.sumterschools.net 

Willow Drive Elementary School, home of the Soaring Eagles, will host a back to school orientation for all students and their parents in Preschool and 1st through 5^th grades on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.   A “Jump Start Camp” will be held for our Kindergarten students and their parents on July 30, 2025 from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.  Parents of Kindergarten students are encouraged to attend our “Jump Start Camp” to  meet the classroom teacher, receive bus schedule information, register for a car pick- up decal, and have an opportunity to join the PTO.  

The first day of school for 1st through 5th grades is Thursday, July 31, 2025.  The first day for Prekindergarten and Kindergarten students is Thursday, August 7, 2025.  PreKindergarten (CERDEP) teachers will utilize the week of July 31st - August 6th to conduct the academic portions of the GOLD testing with a smaller group of students each day.  Kindergarten teachers will also utilize the week of July 31 - August 6 to conduct the academic portions of the KRA testing with a smaller group of students each day.  Parents/Guardians will be contacted by their child’s teacher to schedule an appointment time and date for testing.

Breakfast will be served each morning from 6:50 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. beginning July 31, 2025.  Students should not report to school before 6:50 a.m., as there will not be supervision available until that time. We highly emphasize students being on time for school each day.  Students are encouraged to be at school by 7:15 a.m.  Students are considered tardy at 7:30 a.m. and must be brought into the front office by an adult to be signed in when tardy.  

The main office hours are 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

Drop Off/Pick Up Procedures:  There are two areas available for students to be dropped off in the mornings and picked up if they are car riders.  The front drive-thru area is for students in grades first, second, and third.  The side drive-thru area (near big playground) is for students in kindergarten, fourth, and fifth grades. If your student has a sibling, then all can be dropped off or picked up at the drive-thru of the youngest sibling.  In the interest of safety, students should not be dropped off at the front door of the school building.  Afternoon pickup will be in the same location where students are dropped off in the mornings. Students will be dismissed by 2:15 p.m.  Car riders should be picked up no later than 2:35 p.m. 

Alice Drive Middle School 
Principal:  Jeannie M. Pressley
Address:   40 Miller Road, Sumter, SC 29150
Phone: (803) 775-0821 Fax: (803) 778-2929
School Day: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
http://adm.sumterschools.net

Alice Drive Middle School, a nationally accredited STEM school, is ready to RISE in the 2025-2026 school year! There will be a Hawk Meet-n-Greet for 6th graders and their parents on Wednesday, July 30. All 6th graders/new students and parents are welcome to drop by the Nest between 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. Students will meet their homeroom teacher, tour the building, and receive information  to help make a smooth transition to middle school.

Thursday, July 31st is the official first day of school for all students. Thursday/Friday, July 31- August 1 will be designated as our “RISE” Camp. All students will receive their schedules, take ID pictures, review school-wide behavior expectations/procedures, tour the building, update Chromebooks, and explore STEM through a variety of problem-based learning activities. School pictures will be taken on Friday, August 1.  Information will be sent home with dates for Open House! 

Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures: Parents who bring children to school should enter campus using gate one off of University Drive by making a right turn only. The earliest students may be dropped off in the mornings is 7:15 a.m. To avoid congestion, parents are asked to make a left-turn only when exiting campus out of gate two. Walkers should enter the designated entrance in the gym foyer. In the interest of student safety, please do not drop students off on University Drive, at the front of the school, or in the bus loading/unloading area.

Bates Middle School  
Principal: Mrs. Nicole Fuller
Address: 715 Estate Street, Sumter, SC 29150
Phone: (803) 775-0711  Fax: (803) 775-0715
School Day Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
School Website: http://bms.sumterschools.net
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/batesmiddle
X (formerly known as Twitter) - @WeAreBates

Bates Middle School, an AVID and a nationally certified STEM school, is ready to continue to fly high to our destination of student success and achievement in the 2025-2026 school year!  We have the prestigious honor of being named the Best of Sumter 2025 for Best Middle School!  Our hashtag for the 2025-2026 school year is #BantamsBelieve.  We believe in the power of our students, faculty and staff, parents, community, and relationships as we strive for one common goal…Success!

Back-to-School Orientation Schedule:

6th Grade: Wednesday, July 30 from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

7th Grade: Wednesday, July 30 from 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

8th Grade: Wednesday, July 30 from 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Thursday, July 31 is the official first day of school for all students.  On July 31 - August 1, all students will receive their class schedules, school supply checklist, important documents to take home to parents, and review school-wide academic and behavior expectations.  Our Open House/Meet the Teacher Night will be held on Thursday, August 21 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures: For the safety of all students at Bates Middle School, all cars picking up and dropping off students should enter the drive from Scotkins Court and exit on Bailey Street.  Students are not to be dropped off or picked up on Bailey Street.  Gates will open at 7:15 a.m. and will close at 7:55 a.m.  At approximately 2:30 p.m., gates will be opened for afternoon pick-up.  Parents are not permitted to park in the front of the building to pick up students from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Thank you for your cooperation and support.  We look forward to an awesome school year!  Go Bantams!

Principal: Mrs. Jenaii D. Edwards 
Address: 1200 Oswego Road, Sumter, SC 29153
Phone: (803) 775-7272 Fax: (803) 775-7601
School Day: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
http://coms.sumterschools.net
https://www.facebook.com/chestnutoaksmiddleschool

We are thrilled to welcome you to a brand-new school year at Chestnut Oaks Middle School—where we are SOARING to New Heights in 2025! We’re excited about new opportunities for growth, learning, and success. The first day of school is Thursday, July 31, and our instructional day will run from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

6th Grade “Jump Start” Orientation

To help our rising sixth graders transition smoothly, we invite students and parents to attend our “Jump Start” event  hosted by Title I on Wednesday, July 30, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. in the gym. Informational tables will be available, and staff members will be present to answer questions and provide guidance.

Open House/Title I Fall Meeting

Mark your calendar! Our school-wide Open House and Fall Title I Meeting will be held on Thursday, August 28 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. This is a great time to meet teachers, learn more about academic expectations, and connect with our school community.

School Supplies & Bookbags

All student supplies—except bookbags—will be provided throughout the school year. Clear bookbags/backpacks are required for all students, including athletes.

Chromebook Distribution

Parents/guardians of rising 7th and 8th graders who returned their Chromebooks last school year may visit the school between July 21–24 to sign the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) so their child can receive a Chromebook on the first day. New students to the district will be issued a Chromebook upon enrollment.

Student Handbook

Student handbooks containing important school and district expectations will be distributed during the first week of school. Please take time to review the handbook with your child.

Arrival and Dismissal Procedures

Car riders should be dropped off and picked up using the circular driveway in front of the school on Oswego Road. Morning drop-off begins at 7:30 a.m and afternoon pick-up must be completed by 3:30 p.m. Early dismissals must be completed before 2:30 p.m. Please do not use the bus port area for student drop-off or pick-up. For the latest updates, be sure to like our Facebook page or contact the school directly. 

We are excited to begin this school year with you and look forward to seeing all of our Falcons SOAR!

Principal:  Bertha Timmons
Address:   3440 Ebenezer Road, Sumter, SC 29153
Phone: (803) 469-8571   Fax: (803) 469-8575
School Day:  8:15 a.m. - 3:35 p.m.
http://ems.sumterschools.net

Welcome to Ebenezer, where we promote Tiger PRIDE in Action – Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Discipline, and Excellence!

 Important Dates

• Wednesday, July 16 from 9:00  to 12:00 a.m. & Thursday, July 17 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. – Registration for 6th grade students and new 7th and 8th grade students at Ebenezer.  Bus transportation will not be provided.  
• Thursday, July 31  – First day of school
• Thursday, August 7 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. – Open House

Student handbooks, which include school expectations, the district’s code of conduct, and participation in the eighth-grade promotion ceremony will be distributed at the beginning of the school year. Parents are respectfully requested to review the handbook, the district’s code of conduct, and the 8th-grade promotion criteria with their children.  

Students are required to follow the Sumter School District Dress Code. This policy can be found on the district’s website and in the student handbook. The policy can also be accessed from Ebenezer’s webpage.

All Ebenezer students will carry clear bookbags/backpacks. Athletes must also use clear bookbags for their belongings. Clear bookbags can be purchased from the front office at the beginning of the school year.  These are economy bookbags; therefore parents may choose to purchase a sturdier bookbag on their own.  

Breakfast starts at 7:40 a.m. and will end at 8:20 a.m. Students desiring to eat breakfast should arrive before 8:10 am. The first period begins promptly at 8:25 am. 

The first day of school for all students will be on Thursday, July 31. Upon arrival, students will report to their first period class. First period locations will be posted on the walls of the hallway and outside of the classrooms. Our dedicated faculty and staff will be available to assist students in finding their first period classes, ensuring a smooth transition into their classrooms.

Orientation:

Welcome to a brand new year filled with opportunity, growth, and Tiger pride! There will be a Tiger Meet-n-Greet for 6th graders and their parents on Monday, July 28. All 6th graders/new students and parents are welcome to drop by between 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Students will meet their homeroom teacher, tour the building, and receive information  to help make a smooth transition to middle school. Let’s make this year unforgettable. Let’s roar louder, stand taller, and chase excellence together. Welcome home. Welcome to Tiger Territory.

Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures 

• Parents and guardians should use the south gate entrance and drive around to the drop-off area at the north end of the building. For student safety, please avoid using the front of the school for drop-off.
• The building opens at 7:40 a.m. We ask that students arrive by 8:25 a.m.
• If your child arrives after 8:25 a.m., please park in a designated spot and accompany them to the front office where they can be signed in.
• We appreciate your help in picking up students by 3:45 p.m.

For everyone's safety, please drop off and pick up students at the designated areas rather than at the front of the school or faculty and staff parking lot. Your cooperation helps us keep pick-up and drop-off running smoothly for all families.

Furman Middle School
Principal: J. Tanner Curry
Address:   3400 Bethel Church Road, Sumter, SC 29154
Phone:  (803) 481-8519 Fax: (803) 481-8923
School Day:  8:25 a.m. - 3:35 p.m.
http://fms.sumterschools.net 

Furman Middle School is pleased to inform students and parents about the upcoming orientation sessions and important procedures for the new academic year. We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition and providing a safe and supportive environment for all students.

Orientation will be held Monday, July 28, 2025. A welcome session for rising 6th grade and new students begins at 5:30 p.m. in the gym. Meet the Teacher Night follows from 6:00–7:30 p.m.

Arrival Locations:

• 6th Grade: Gymnasium foyer
• 7th Grade: Media center entrance
• 8th Grade: Main office entrance

The school uniform requirement will be waived again for the upcoming year; however, it is essential to note that students must adhere to the Sumter School District Dress Code Policy JICA-R. This policy can be found on both the school and district websites. We encourage everyone to review and follow these guidelines, as well as the District Code of Conduct Policy JICDA, to maintain a positive and respectful learning environment.

The first day of school for all students will be on Thursday, July 31. Homeroom assignments will be posted on the walls in the hallway and outside of the classrooms. Our staff members will be available to assist students in finding their assigned homerooms, ensuring a smooth transition into their classrooms.

To familiarize students who will be bus riders with their assigned buses, we request that they plan to ride their designated buses in the morning on the first day of school. This will allow the bus drivers to become acquainted with the students and help the students become familiar with their bus numbers and drivers. We believe this early introduction will contribute to a comfortable and safe transportation experience for all. Please be prepared for slight delays in the pick and drop-off times for bus riders as our team will be working diligently to ensure that each child boards the correct bus prior to departing.

Drop-off and pick-up procedures: students arriving by car should be dropped off between 7:45 a.m. and 8:15 a.m. at the designated student drop-off area located in the fenced area beside the school. Early drop off is not advised. No students should be dropped off at the front of the school between 8:00 - 8:45 a.m. Detailed directions and a map can be found on our school website and social media pages. Students arriving after 8:25 a.m. must be signed in by a parent or guardian at the main office. In the afternoon, students can be picked up in the fenced area beside the school at 3:45 p.m. Parents are requested to ensure they pick up their children no later than 4:00 p.m. To prioritize safety, we ask all occupants to remain in their vehicles while waiting to pick up students.

Furman Middle School is dedicated to providing an exceptional educational experience and fostering a supportive community for our students. We value the partnership with parents and guardians, and we believe that by working together, we can create an enriching and successful academic year.

For more information and updates, please visit our school website and social media pages. We look forward to welcoming our students and families for an exciting and rewarding school year.

Hillcrest Middle School
Principal: Tarsha B. Staggers
Address: 4355 Peach Orchard Road, Dalzell, SC 29040
Phone: (803) 499-3341 Fax: (803) 499-3353
School Day: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
School Website: https://hms.sumterschools.net/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/hillcrestmiddlewildcats

Welcome back to Hillcrest Middle School for the 2025–2026 school year!
As an AVID school, we are dedicated to preparing our students for college and beyond. Our mission statement, "Believing, Achieving, and Succeeding through Academics, Citizenship, and Service," reflects our commitment to fostering a positive and challenging learning environment where every student can thrive.

Hillcrest Middle School Orientation – Wednesday, July 30 at 2:00 PM

Hillcrest Middle School will hold a schoolwide orientation for all students in grades 6–8 on Wednesday, July 30 at 2:00 PM. This event is for both students and a parent or guardian.

During orientation, students will receive their schedules and walk through each of their classes with a parent or guardian. Families will have the opportunity to meet teachers, learn about classroom expectations, and become familiar with the daily routine.

Important back-to-school information will also be available in the gym to help families prepare for the first day of school.

Drop-Off / Pick-Up Procedures

Car riders may be dropped off starting at 7:30 a.m. to ensure adequate supervision for all students. Please use the designated student drop-off/pick-up area located at the back of the school, accessible via Old Highway 521.

To keep traffic flowing smoothly and safely, please do not use the teacher parking lot for drop-offs or pick-ups. Thank you for your cooperation!

We look forward to an exciting year of growth, achievement, and excellence together.    Go Wildcats!

Principal: Maria Dantzler
Address:   345 Eastern School Road, Sumter, SC  29153
Phone: 803-495-3247 Fax:  803-495-3211
School Day:  7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. 
Website: https://redcpa.sumterschools.net/
Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/REDavisCPA/ 

Vikings! Anchored in Learning, Driven to Lead!

Welcome Back for the 2025-2026 school year! We are excited to start a new year of learning at R.E. Davis College Preparatory Academy, where we are armed with our S.W.O.R.D. (Seeking excellence, Working hard, Observing rules and procedures, Respecting ourselves and others and Doing the right thing). Our school day will begin promptly at 7:30 a.m. and dismissal begins at 2:15 p.m. The first day of school for grades 1-8 is Thursday, July 31st. Students in prekindergarten and kindergarten will start on Thursday, August 8.

We will continue AVID -Advancement Via Individual Determination schoolwide. An important part of our implementation will be our student led events, school agendas (calendars) and 3-ring binders for all students. We are excited to announce that we will begin working with Franklin Covey as a Leader In Me School. Through Leader in Me we will foster a leadership-based culture that empowers students, strengthens academics and increases engagement.   

Back to School Orientation: For all preschool to 8th grade students, orientaion will be held Wednesday, July 30 from 12 - 3 p.m. Parents/guardians and students are asked to join the administration team in the cafeteria for the welcome address at noon. Students and parents/guardians will then have an opportunity to meet with the teacher, participate in classroom tours, get class schedules, important forms, transportation information and visit various school and community resource tables.  

School Supplies: Parents/guardians are asked to provide their child with a bookbag.  All other school supplies will be provided using our federal funds project.  It is recommended that your child have a water bottle. 

Uniforms: We do not have a mandatory uniform, but students are asked to adhere to the Sumter School District Dress Code. 

Drop-Off/Pick-Up Procedures: Morning drop-off time for car riders will begin from 7 - 7:30 a.m. at the main entrance. All students arriving after 7:30 a.m. should be signed in by a parent/guardian in the main office. The afternoon pickup location is at the front entrance near the gym. Each student/family will receive a car tag. Parents must have their tags visible at all times and should line up in two rows facing East. Students will only be permitted to load the car from the side closest to the building. We ask all car riders to be picked up by 2:35 p.m. 

 Join us for our Title 1 Fall Meeting and Open House, Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 5 p.m.

Principal: Dr. Jayson R. Leach I
Address: 2000 Oswego Road, Sumter, SC 29153
Phone: (803) 469-6200/Fax:  (803) 469-7678
School Day: 8:45 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Crestwood High School (CHS) will host its Jump Start for all rising 9th grade/newly enrolled students and their families to tour the building on Wednesday, July 30,  based on the following schedule: 

• Welcome/Introduction of the “A” Team - 9:00 - 9:30 a.m. in the Fine Arts Center.
• Meet the Teacher – 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. in the main building.
• Upper-Classmen can tour the main building from 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.

2025/2026 IDs/Chromebooks (Freshman/New Students Only):

• A-H: 9:40 a.m. in Media Center
• I - M: 10:05 a.m. in Media Center
• N - Z: 10:25 a.m. in Media Center

Parking is available in the parking lots located in front of the school, fine arts center, and gymnasium.

Schedule confirmations will be conducted in person or virtually from July 21 - 24, 2025. Please call the CHS Guidance Office to schedule your appointment time. 

Courses will be changed by appointment if there are one of the following legitimate needs:

1. Scheduled for a class in which credit has been received;
2. Not scheduled for eight classes;
3. Course(s) required for graduation are needed; or
4. Failed a course and a prerequisite is required.  

Schedules will be reviewed based on the following schedule: 

• Monday, July 21 – Senior Confirmation Day (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
• Tuesday, July 22– Junior Confirmation Day (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
• Wednesday, July 23 –Sophomore Confirmation Day (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
• Thursday, July 24 – Freshman Confirmation Day (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Student handbooks, which include school and district expectations, will be distributed on the first day of school. Parents are respectfully requested to review the handbooks with their children.  The first day of school for students is Thursday, July 31, 2025. 

Drop-off and pick-up procedures: 

Parents who drive their children to school should arrive no later than 8:35 a.m.; the building will open at 8:00 a.m.; the pick-up time is no later than 4:15 p.m.  Students are to be dropped off and picked up at the roundabout in front of the school.

Students are required to arrive at the designated parking lot no later than 8:30 a.m.

Student drivers must complete the school driver safety course and complete the application before driving privileges will be granted. Permits will be sold on a first-come/first-served basis. Parking permits may be purchased at school; mail-in registration fees do not include parking permits.

Lakewood High School
Principal:  Dr. Maggie J. Wright
Address:   350 Old Manning Road, Sumter, SC 29150
Phone: (803) 506-2700 Fax: (803) 506-2708
School Day:  8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.
http://lhs.sumterschools.net 

Upcoming Events:

• Jump Start for Freshmen & New Students: July 22, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., Fine Arts Center
• Registration for Returning Students:
  • July 23, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m (Media Center)
  • July 24,1 - p.m-4:00p.m Media Center

Registration Details:

• Schedules available for pickup.
• Schedules also be accessible via PowerSchool Parent Portal
• ID pictures taken as needed
• ALL Freshman students will be provided a clear backpack & supplies

Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures:

• Arrival: Not before 8 a.m.
• Departure: Off campus by 4:15 p.m
• Student Drop-off/Pick-up: Front of the auditorium (third entrance on Old Manning Road)
• Student Parking: Front of the gym area (third entrance)
• Late Arrival (after 8:40 a.m.): Report to main office
• Student drivers arriving after 8:40 a.m.: Must park in designated spaces at the main office lot
• Note: First driveway is reserved for buses only. Please use designated areas for drop-off and pick-up

Sumter High School
Principal: Anamaria Sandor
Address: 2580 McCray's Mill Road, Sumter, SC 29154
Phone: 803-481-4480 Fax: 803-481-4021
School Website: http://shs.sumterschools.net
School Day: 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Welcome to Sumter High School’s 2025-2026 Academic Year!

The faculty and staff at Sumter High School are thrilled to welcome our students to what promises to be an exceptional school year.

Orientation:

We’re excited to kick off the 2025-2026 school year with our drop-in Jump Start/Student Orientation for the new students and ninth-grade students on Monday, July 28, 2025,  as we prepare for a successful year ahead.

Schedule Pick-Up for 9th Grade and New Students:

Date: July 28, 2025

Location: Gym

Times:

9  - 11:30 a.m. (Last Names A-L)

1:00  - 3:30 p.m. (Last Names M-Z)

New students will have their yearbook and ID photos taken in the auditorium.

Orientation parking is available at the front of the campus via Gate 1. All students and parents must enter through the front of the building. For updates and detailed school information, please visit our website.

Upperclassmen will access their schedules and other school information through PowerSchool student portal and email.

Student and Parent Handbooks:

Student and parent handbooks, which include school and district expectations, will be distributed via student email and posted on the school website. Parents are encouraged to review these handbooks and the new Code of Conduct with their children. 

First Day of School:

We look forward to welcoming students back on Thursday, July 31. Class starts at 8:40 am. 

Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures:

Parents who drive their children to school should use Gate 1 off McCrays Mill Road for drop-off and pick-up. Drop-off time is no later than 8:30 a.m., and pick-up is from 3:45 to 4:15 p.m. To ensure safety, do not use the student parking lot, bus loading/unloading area, Sumter Career and Technology Center parking lot, the church and other private residences across the street parking areas, or pick up outside the school premises on McCrays Mill Rd. or Stadium Rd.

Student Driver/Parking Procedures:

Students driving to school must arrive by 8:30 a.m. and use Gate 6 to enter and exit the campus. Parking permits will be issued during the first week of school. Permits must be obtained in person at the main office during lunchtime. Students need to present their vehicle registration and a valid driver’s license. Full details on driving and parking procedures are available on the school website and in the handbooks.

Our Motto:

We are Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow, and Gamecocks Forever.

We are excited for a fantastic school year ahead!

Sumter Career and Technology Center
Principal:  Dr. Shirrie B. Miller
Address:  2612 McCray’s Mill Road, Sumter, SC 29154
Phone: (803) 481-8575/Fax: (803) 481-4232
School Day: 9:00 a.m. – 3:25 p.m.
Website: http://sctc.sumterschools.net
Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/sctcsumter/
Twitter: http://twitter@sctcsumter
Instagram: http://Instagram@sctcsumter

 Sumter Career and Technology Center (SCTC) is a nationally certified STEM school as well as a Transform SC Center, a SREB Pacesetter CTE Center, and South Carolina Youth Apprenticeship member. SCTC is where faculty, staff, and administration invest in the future of our students by producing college, military, and career ready students.  

 Back to School Jump Start/Orientation – Sumter Career and Technology Center will host its Jump Start/Orientation for new students on Tuesday, July 29  beginning at 9:00 p.m.   Students will meet the administration team in the Commons and will go to their respective classrooms/shops/labs.  The Jump Start/Orientation session will conclude at 11:00 p.m.  Parking will be available in the front of the campus using Gate 1 and in the bus port using Gate 2.

 The first day for students in grades 10–12 is Thursday, July 31. Open House/Meet the Teacher for returning students and parents is Tuesday, August19,  from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. Orientation for students is Thursday, August 14, 2025. Morning orientation is scheduled for 10:30 - 11:30  a..m., and afternoon orientation is scheduled for 12:45–1:45 p.m.

Student Handbook and Chromebook Distribution Information:

Student handbooks, which include school and district expectations, will be distributed electronically on the first day of school.  Parents are strongly encouraged to review the handbook and the new Code of Conduct with their children to ensure a clear understanding of policies and expectations. Chromebooks will be distributed at each student’s home high school.  Please check with your home high school for distribution dates.  

 Students Arrival and Dismissal Procedures at Sumter Career and Technology Center (SCTC):

Please note that no students are to be dropped off or picked up directly at SCTC.  Sumter High School students walk to SCTC through the back gate.  Crestwood High School and Lakewood High School students are transported by bus to SCTC.  The school building opens daily at 9  a.m. to welcome students.

SCTC is investing in the future of our students!!

Sumter County Adult Education
Director: Dr. Vanessa Smith-Canty
Address: 905 North Main Street, Sumter, SC 29150
Telephone: (803) 778-6432  Fax: (803) 775-4665
aed.sumterschools.net

Hours of Operation: 
Monday and Wednesday - 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday and Thursday - 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Friday - 8:00 a.m.-12 noon
Fourth Saturdays - 8:00 a.m.-12 noon

Sumter Adult Education enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year begins July 1. Orientation will be held August 5-8,  and session one classes will begin on Tuesday, August 18. The last day to enroll for session one is August 22. Prior to the first day of class, all students must take the pre-test, Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE), participate in orientation and assessment/placement counseling. Sumter Adult Education will continue to “Open Doors of Opportunities for the Sumter Community.”