School

FORT MILL, SC — The Fort Mill School District Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the selection of three finalists in the search for the district’s next superintendent. Following a comprehensive search conducted in partnership with BWP & Associates, the board interviewed six candidates from a highly qualified pool and has identified three finalists to advance to the next phase of the process. In alphabetical order by last name, the finalists are: Mr. Jason Johns Superintendent Anderson School District 2 Dr. Mary Stratos Chief Instructional Officer Beaufort County School District Mr. Grey Young Assistant Superintendent for Student Services and…

High school athletes from across York and Lancaster Counties delivered standout performances at the SCHSL 5A Division II State Championship qualifiers held on May 10. Competitors from Fort Mill, Nation Ford, Catawba Ridge, Indian Land, and Northwestern High Schools earned their places in the State Championship meet, scheduled for May 15 at Spring Valley High School in Columbia. Girls 100m   # Name Yr Team Time 1 47 BRAGG, Janiyah SR North Myrtle Beach 12.15 2 193 YOUNG, Kamya FR West Florence 12.25 3 61 MCBRIDE, Kristen JR Eastside 12.40 4 347 BRAILSFORD, Gabriela SR Nation Ford 12.56 5 444…

The Fort Mill Lady Yellow Jackets saw their playoff journey end in a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to the Eastside Eagles after a grueling four overtime periods. In a tightly contested match where both defenses stood strong, neither team could find the back of the net through regulation and three subsequent extra times. The decisive moment came in the fourth overtime when Eastside was awarded a penalty kick. Payton Nutzman stepped up and calmly converted, securing the narrow victory for the Eagles. ⚽️ FINAL/4OT | Eastside 1, Fort Mill 0 DO YOU GET DEJA VU?! Payton Nutzman comes through AGAIN in…

FORT MILL, S.C. — Students across the Fort Mill School District (FMSD) have earned statewide recognition for their musical achievements, securing spots in the prestigious South Carolina All-State Bands. Dozens of middle and high school musicians from the district were selected following a competitive audition process. Participants were named to one of three All-State ensembles: Junior Band, Clinic Band, and Senior Band, representing the top young instrumentalists in the state. Junior Band Selections The Junior Band features top-performing middle school musicians from across South Carolina. This year, 15 students from Fort Mill School District middle schools earned positions in the…

Local rivalry games set to highlight the fall season FORT MILL, S.C. — High school football fans in Fort Mill will have plenty to look forward to this fall as Fort Mill High School, Nation Ford High School, and Catawba Ridge High School each released their 2025 varsity football schedules. The upcoming season includes several high-profile rivalry matchups among the three programs, setting the stage for a competitive year in York County. Fort Mill High School Yellow Jackets – 2025 Schedule Aug. 22 – vs. Ballantyne Ridge (N.C.) Aug. 29 – at Chester Sept. 5 – at Blythewood Sept. 12…

FORT MILL — The Fort Mill School Board convened on May 6, 2025, for its regular monthly meeting, recognizing student achievements and reviewing important updates on district finances, nutrition services, and the ongoing superintendent search. Student Recognition and School Spotlight The meeting opened with a special recognition of middle and high school students who earned All-State Band honors, highlighting the district’s continued emphasis on arts education. Nation Ford High School was featured during the “School Spotlight” segment. Principal Chris Chandler and his staff shared highlights of the school’s academic and cultural initiatives, including their effective use of Professional Learning Communities…

CLOVER, S.C. — Clover High School held its annual Military Signing Day on Monday, recognizing members of the Class of 2025 who have committed to military service following graduation. The event celebrated students who will enlist in the armed forces, attend military academies, or join college ROTC programs. The ceremony began with a presentation of colors by the Clover High Air Force JROTC, followed by senior Q Gregory’s performance of the National Anthem. Camilla Joye, representing the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, delivered the invocation. Superintendent Dr. Sheila Quinn acknowledged the students’ commitment to service and expressed appreciation on behalf of…

Lawmakers in Columbia are advancing a bill intended to enhance public accessibility to school board meetings across the state. Supporters of the legislation believe it would foster greater transparency between school districts and the families they serve. The bipartisan bill mandates that all public and charter schools in South Carolina record their school board meetings and make these recordings publicly available within two business days following the meeting. The legislation would also require the South Carolina Board of Education to develop a model policy that each school district would be obligated to adopt. This model policy would then need approval…

Emma Grace Funderburk is graduating from Fort Mill High School. She will be attending Clemson University in the fall to study Business Marketing with a minor in Political Science   Post Views: 164

Jacob Nally is graduating from Fort Mill High School.  He  joined the SC Army National Guard on 5/2/2025 and will be attending Lander University in the fall of 2026 majoring in Data Science, with a Business Analytics Emphasis.     Post Views: 199

Gabby Knight is graduating from Fort Mill High School. She will be attending Coastal Carolina University in the fall to study Marketing.   Post Views: 51

 The South Carolina High School League (SCHSL) baseball playoffs begin this week, with teams from York and Lancaster counties entering the postseason across multiple classifications and divisions. First-round games are scheduled for May 5 and May 6, and all rounds follow a double-elimination format. Class AAAAA – Division I Clover High School earned the No. 8 seed in District 1 and will host Byrnes in the opening round on May 5. The winner advances to face top-seeded Blythewood on May 10. Class AAAAA – Division II Three local teams are active in Division II: Nation Ford (No. 8) hosts Easley…

The Fort Mill High School girls lacrosse team will compete for the South Carolina Class 5A Division 2 state championship today, Saturday, May 3, against Lucy Beckham High School. The game is scheduled to begin at 3:30 p.m. at Irmo High School. How to Watch Fans unable to attend in person can stream the game live on the NFHS Network. A subscription is required to access the broadcast. To watch, visit the South Carolina High School Playoff Page on the NFHS Network. Road to the Championship Fort Mill secured its spot in the title game with an 18-8 victory over…

CLOVER, SC – May 1, 2025 – The track at Clover High School was alive with the energy of competition yesterday as seven area high schools battled for top honors at the Region 3-AAAAA Track and Field Championships. Under sunny skies, athletes from Fort Mill, Clover, Nation Ford, Rock Hill, Northwestern, Catawba Ridge, and Indian Land high schools showcased their speed, strength, and determination in a thrilling day of track and field events. When the dust settled, the Fort Mill girls’ team has multiple wins, demonstrating impressive depth and talent across multiple disciplines. The Catawba Ridge boys’ team also celebrated…

Fort Mill, SC – The Fort Mill High School DECA team has concluded an outstanding year, culminating in a strong showing at the recent International Career Development Conference (ICDC) held in Orlando, FL. Ten exceptional students from Fort Mill earned the opportunity to participate in the prestigious event, which was the largest international DECA conference to date, bringing together 26,000 members from across the globe. The Fort Mill High School business department proudly celebrates the entire DECA team’s accomplishments. In an impressive achievement, Aubrey Heaton secured a Top #10 world ranking for her Franchise Business Plan. Her dedication, determination, and…

  WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. — State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver released the following statement after the House gave final approval to H.3196 this week. The legislation is known as the Educator Assistance Act. “The Educator Assistance Act is a major step forward for South Carolina’s teachers—and ultimately, for the students they serve. As we work to attract and retain excellent educators in every classroom, this legislation delivers meaningful support through commonsense changes and streamlined processes. I’m grateful to Chairlady Shannon Erickson, Chairman Greg Hembree, and the General Assembly for their leadership in championing this effort. Once signed by Governor…

Fort Mill, S.C. – Fort Mill High School senior Mary Dober has been named Athlete of the Week, recognizing her standout performance as captain of the Yellow Jackets softball team. Dober led by example during a strong two-game stretch, batting .500 while going 3-for-6 at the plate. Her stat line included two RBIs, two singles, a double, and two stolen bases, contributing significantly to her team’s recent success. A senior leader both on and off the field, Dober plays catcher and has been instrumental in guiding the team through the season. Her leadership and performance continue to set a high…

The Fort Mill High School girls lacrosse team is headed to the state championship after defeating T.L. Hanna 18-8 in the South Carolina Class 5A Division 2 Upper State final on Monday evening. Fort Mill opened strong, with #20 Molly Bennett scoring the first goal at the 4:40 mark, followed by #23 Cece Shia adding another at 7:08 to give Fort Mill an early 2-0 lead. T.L. Hanna answered shortly after to make it 2-1, but Shia struck again at 11:03 to extend the lead to 3-1. T.L. Hanna responded with two quick goals, including one in the closing seconds…

Several local soccer players have been selected to represent South Carolina in the 2024 Clash of the Carolinas, the nation’s only interstate high school soccer all-star event. The match is scheduled for June 21 at the OrthoCarolina Sportsplex in Pineville, N.C. The Clash of the Carolinas, which features top graduated seniors from South Carolina and North Carolina, is being held at the OrthoCarolina Sportsplex for the second consecutive year. The event provides a unique opportunity for players to compete at a high level before advancing to collegiate soccer careers. Among the South Carolina selections, the Fort Mill area will be…

Several area soccer players have been chosen to represent the North team in the 2025 North-South Soccer Classic, set for June 14 at T.L. Hanna High School’s Fraser Field in Anderson. The North-South Soccer Classic, established in 1989, is one of South Carolina’s top high school sports events, featuring 72 of the best graduated seniors in all-star competition. This year marks the 36th edition for the boys and the 28th for the girls. Among the local selections: Eberlee Bolduc (Nation Ford) – Girls North Team Drew Ruth (Nation Ford) – Girls North Team Ansley Drummond (Clover) – Girls North Team…

Athletes from York County and surrounding schools delivered strong performances at the 2025 Bob Jenkins Coaches Classic Elite Track Meet, held Friday.  The Fort Mill Boys won the 4x4800m relay. Fort Mill High School had multiple standout performers across distance events, relays, and field competitions. Isaac Campbell: 3rd in Varsity Boys 1600 Meter Run (4:20.37); 5th in 3200 Meter Run (9:24.54) Hudson Haley: 14th in Varsity Boys 3200 Meter Run (9:43.72) Connor Demmerle: 14th in Varsity Boys 800 Meter Run (2:03.76) Boys 4×800 Meter Relay: 1st place (7:55.81) Ella Demmerle: 5th in Varsity Girls 1600 Meter Run (5:07.09) Alivia Cleveland:…

COLUMBIA, S.C. (Apr. 25, 2025) – South Carolina Treasurer Curtis Loftis has recognized William “Ed” Humphrey of Lancaster High School as the South Carolina Financial Literacy Master Teacher Program’s Educator of the Month for April. “As we celebrate Financial Literacy Month this April, we applaud Ed Humphrey and other outstanding educators across our state who are committed to promoting personal finance education in their classrooms,” Treasurer Loftis said. “The SC Financial Literacy Master Teacher Program equips these educators with the tools they need to teach their students strong financial behaviors, such as saving, budgeting, managing debt and understanding credit.” Humphrey…

South Carolina lawmakers are advancing House Bill 4163, a proposal to dissolve the South Carolina High School League (SCHSL) and replace it with a new state-run organization, the South Carolina High School Athletic Association (SCHAA). The SCHAA would be governed by an 11-member board appointed by the governor, legislative leaders, and the state superintendent of education, excluding current coaches, athletic directors, and school administrators. The SCHAA would serve as a state agency, tasked with setting athletic rules, managing playoffs, ensuring participation opportunities for all students—including homeschoolers and private school students—and establishing an appellate panel to handle disputes. Supporters argue the…

With the South Carolina High School League (SCHSL) lacrosse playoffs set to begin this week, York County is once again a major player in both the boys’ and girls’ brackets. Local teams from Clover, Fort Mill, Nation Ford, and Catawba Ridge are not just participating—they’re poised to make deep postseason runs. In boys’ Division 1, the Clover Blue Eagles earned the top seed in the AAAAA Upper State bracket, rewarding them with a bye into the second round. Meanwhile, Fort Mill, Nation Ford, and Catawba Ridge are all clustered in the Division 2 Upper State bracket—meaning local rivalries could be…

Discover specialized educational opportunities for talented high school students at an informational meeting hosted by South Carolina’s Governor’s Schools. Representatives from the schools focusing on Arts & Humanities, Agriculture, and Science & Mathematics will be at the Lancaster County Library (313 S. White Street, Lancaster, SC) on Monday, April 28th at 6:00 p.m. South Carolina’s Governor’s Schools are state-supported, publicly funded institutions dedicated to providing exceptionally talented and motivated high school students with specialized, intensive study in their areas of passion. These schools go beyond the traditional high school curriculum, fostering intellectual curiosity, creativity, and leadership skills in a challenging…

The GFWC York County Woman’s Club (GFWC-YC) is demonstrating its strong support for military and veteran families in York County, South Carolina, by offering two $4,000 college scholarships for the 2025-2026 school year. These scholarships are available to York County high school seniors whose parent(s) are a veteran, reservist, or currently serving member of the military. The scholarship funds can be used at any post-graduate school and will be sent directly to the institution for tuition. To apply for this opportunity, interested students should visit the GFWC-YC website at York County Woman’s Club Scholarship. The application process involves four components:…

FORT MILL, S.C. — At its regular meeting on April 15, the Fort Mill School District Board reviewed a proposed 2025–2026 General Fund Budget that includes a significant local tax increase to support operational needs. The plan recommends a 21.2 mill increase in the local property tax rate — on top of a previous tax hike tied to recently approved bond measures. This refers to the district’s General Fund Budget, which covers day-to-day operational expenses. Under Act 388, the General Fund is approved by the Board of Trustees and a portion of the budget is funded through taxes on local…

Tega Cay Elementary School has been honored with a prestigious national recognition, earning the title of a 2025 Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School by the National Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence organization. The designation follows a rigorous evaluation process that included stakeholder surveys and a comprehensive two-day site visit. During the visit, classroom instruction was observed and interviews were conducted with students, parents, teachers, and school leaders. The Lighthouse School distinction celebrates excellence in nine core categories critical to student achievement and school success: Student Focus and Support School Organization and Culture Challenging Standards and Curriculum Active Teaching and Learning Technology…

Boggess and Graham Capture First-Place Titles Among East Coast’s Best COLUMBIA, SC – Athletes from the greater York County area made their mark at the All American Track Meet held April 11–12 in Columbia, SC, where hundreds of top-tier teams from across the East Coast converged for a weekend of elite competition. Two standout performances highlighted the weekend: Clover High School’s Mackenzie Boggess and Rock Hill High School’s Aidan Graham each brought home first-place finishes in their respective field events, asserting their positions on the national stage. Boggess Breaks 40 Feet in Triple Jump Clover High School junior Mackenzie Boggess…

FORT MILL, SC — During the 2025 Teacher of the Year banquet held on April 10 at the Founders Dairy Barn at the Anne Springs Close Greenway, the district announced the five District Honor Roll Teachers of the Year. Katie Jenkinson, Lead Teacher, Banks Trail Middle Ms. Jenkinson earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College, a Master of Education from Columbia College, and is currently completing her Doctorate of Education in Curriculum Studies at the University of South Carolina. She has served in education for 18 years as an English teacher at both the middle…

FORT MILL, S.C. – Fort Mill High School junior Molly Bennett has been named the school’s Athlete of the Week, following an impressive three-game stretch with the Yellow Jackets girls lacrosse team. Bennett posted standout numbers across the board, scoring 14 goals on 14 shots for a perfect 100 percent shooting percentage. In addition to her offensive performance, she contributed 17 groundballs, 22 draw controls, and 10 caused turnovers, highlighting her all-around impact on the field. The Athlete of the Week recognition is sponsored by the Fort Mill Athletic Booster Club and Super Chix Fort Mill. Post Views: 38

Tega Cay, SC – In a remarkable display of rapid development, Samuel Paukovitz of Tega Cay has won the 2025 South Carolina High School State Chess Championship Title. This achievement is particularly notable considering his relatively recent entry into the world of competitive chess. Paukovitz began playing chess independently just three years ago and is largely self-taught. His journey started in August 2022, when he entered his first competition with a rating of 703. By December of the same year, his rating had climbed to 1024 after participating in his first large tournament. Demonstrating a natural aptitude for the game,…

The Fort Mill High School golf program is gearing up for its biggest fundraiser of the year — the 7th Annual Yellow Jacket Classic — set for Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the beautiful Tega Cay Golf Club. With a 9:00 a.m. shotgun start, this lively four-person Captain’s Choice tournament promises a full day of fun, prizes, and purpose. Open to golfers of all skill levels, the Yellow Jacket Classic is more than just a competition. It’s a vital event that supports both the boys’ and girls’ golf teams, helping fund travel to tournaments and purchase essential equipment throughout the…

At its April 7, 2025 meeting, the York County Council gave final approval to an ordinance establishing new public education impact fees for all new residential development within the Fort Mill School District (District No. 4). The ordinance sets the impact fee at $29,640 per single-family detached home and $20,796 per multifamily unit, making it one of the highest school impact fees in the state. The fee structure, which passed on its third and final reading, is based on a capital improvements plan developed by the Fort Mill School District and a supporting impact fee study. The goal is to…

Fort Mill, SC – A showdown of track and field titans unfolded last night as  Northwestern hosted Fort Mill, delivering a spectacle of speed, strength, and endurance. Both teams showcased their depth and talent, with state-leading athletes battling for supremacy. The Northwestern boys entered the meet with a formidable sprinting arsenal, spearheaded by Austin Smith, South Carolina’s top-ranked 400m runner (47.63 seconds), and Xavier Means, a powerhouse in the 100m (10.8 seconds) and 200m (21.84 seconds). Fort Mill countered with their exceptional distance runners: Connor Demmerle, boasting a sub-2-minute 800m and a 4:19.56 1600m (5th in the state), and Issac…

The Fort Mill School Board convened on April 1, 2025, for a meeting filled with celebratory recognitions, crucial strategic planning, and discussions surrounding environmental concerns impacting upcoming school construction. The meeting showcased the district’s commitment to excellence, transparency, and proactive problem-solving. Celebrating Student and School Success: The meeting began with a series of special recognitions highlighting outstanding achievements within the district. Gold Hill Middle School received accolades for achieving COGNIA STEAM Accreditation, a testament to the school’s commitment to integrated Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics education. The Gold Hill Middle School Robotics Teams were also celebrated for their remarkable…

Fort Mill High School senior Jacob Pettit has been named Athlete of the Week, recognizing his outstanding performance on the baseball field. Pettit delivered an impressive week at the plate, posting a .667 batting average. In nine at-bats, he recorded six hits, including four home runs—one of which was a grand slam—and tallied eight RBIs. The Fort Mill High School Athletic Booster Club and Super Chix sponsored this week’s award, which honors student-athletes who demonstrate excellence in competition and sportsmanship. Congratulations to Jacob Pettit on this well-deserved recognition. Post Views: 54

FORT MILL, SC — Graduating seniors in the Fort Mill School District are invited to explore their post-high school options at the Next Steps Career Fair on April 15. The event will connect students with local employers, educational institutions, and military recruiters. The career fair will be held at Fort Mill High School from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. It offers a valuable opportunity for students to network and discover potential career paths, educational opportunities, and military service options. Students will have the chance to speak with representatives from numerous local businesses, colleges, universities, and branches of the military. Participants…

FORT MILL, SC — Just a friendly reminder, the Fort Mill School District has  a two-hour early release for all schools on Friday, March 28. The early release is scheduled for: Elementary Schools: 12:00 PM Middle Schools: 1:10 PM High Schools: 1:40 PM Post Views: 34

FORT MILL, SC — Gold Hill Elementary School has emerged victorious at the 2025 South Carolina Scholastic Chess Championship, held on March 22. The team outmaneuvered competitors from over 90 schools, showcasing exceptional skill and strategic prowess. The championship, which drew 190 young chess players from across the state, witnessed intense competition as Gold Hill Elementary’s team members demonstrated remarkable focus and determination. The winning team comprises Aayansh Bhakta, Anirudh Kannan, Ashvadheer Radhakrishnan, Ashwath Kalagiri, Johann Jayabarath, Maria Jayabarath, and Samvit Reddy. Adding to the school’s triumph, Johann Jayabarath has qualified for the individual state finals, scheduled for April 5….

FORT MILL, S.C. — Nation Ford High School junior Mason Bucciero has been selected to participate in the prestigious 2025 Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Bucciero joins 100 high school students from across the nation for the five-day program, which began this week. The academy provides students with immersive workshops and seminars led by business leaders, educators, and celebrities, all designed to inspire and cultivate their career aspirations. Bucciero’s selection highlights his commitment to community service and his resilience in the face of personal tragedy. In 2012, at the age of four, Bucciero lost his…

The Fort Mill High School track and field teams secured victories over Rock Hill High School in a dual meet held on March 26, 2025, at Fort Mill’s home track. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams from Fort Mill showcased strong performances across various events.​ In the sprints, Fort Mill’s athletes delivered notable results, with standout performances in the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes. Jahzie McCants won the boys 100m and 200m. The middle-distance and distance runners also contributed significantly, particularly in the 800-meter and 1600-meter races where Alivia Cleveland won both events and Kaylee Rovenstine won the 400m and 3200m….

FORT MILL, S.C. — Fort Mill High School sophomore Cece Shia has been named the school’s Athlete of the Week for her standout performance on the lacrosse field. Shia recorded nine goals and 10 draw controls over the course of two games, helping lead the Yellow Jackets with strong offensive and midfield play. The recognition is part of a weekly program sponsored by the Fort Mill Athletics Booster Club and Super Chix Fort Mill, which highlights exceptional student-athletes for their contributions in competition and teamwork. Congratulations to Cece Shia on earning this week’s honor. Post Views: 8

FORT MILL, SC – Kings Town Elementary School has achieved a significant milestone, earning the coveted Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation from the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). This prestigious accolade highlights the school’s dedication to providing a comprehensive, data-driven school counseling program, fostering an exceptional learning environment for all students. The RAMP designation, valid for five years, signifies that Kings Town Elementary has demonstrated a strong commitment to implementing a school counseling program aligned with the ASCA National Model. This model emphasizes a proactive and preventative approach, focusing on academic, career, and social/emotional development for every student. Kings…

The 2025 Bob Jenkins Coaches Classic Track and Field Region 2 meet delivered a day of intense competition and dramatic finishes, culminating in a nail-biting victory for the Fort Mill girls’ team. With a mere 0.5-point margin, Fort Mill edged out Dorman, securing the coveted top spot and showcasing the depth and resilience of their squad. The boys’ competition was equally fierce, with Spartanburg claiming the championship, and Northwestern finishing a strong second. The meet, held at York Comprehensive High School, saw athletes from across the region battling for supremacy, with numerous standout performances highlighting the day. Girls’ Competition: A…

Image credit Nation Ford H.S. athletics. Post Views: 11

Image from Fort Mill High School Athletics. Post Views: 12

FORT MILL, S.C. — AC Flora held off a Fort Mill surge, securing an 8-7 victory in a tightly contested lacrosse match Wednesday night. AC Flora controlled the early game, capitalizing on Fort Mill turnovers and dominating face-offs. They took a 1-0 lead early in the first quarter, and extended it to 2-1 by the end of the first. The second quarter saw both defenses holding strong, with offenses struggling to find their rhythm. AC Flora extended their lead to 4-1, but Fort Mill’s Cayden Klapheke scored a man-up goal to close the gap. AC Flora then committed a 30…

FORT MILL, S.C. — Fort Mill’s bats came alive Wednesday night, powering the Yellow Jackets to an 11-3 victory over Clover and securing the series win in Region 3-5A baseball action. The Yellow Jackets (6-2, 3-2 Region 3-5A) jumped out to an early lead, scoring two runs in the first inning. Clover (5-4, 3-2 Region 3-5A) responded with a run in the second, but their offense remained quiet until the fifth inning. Fort Mill exploded for five runs in the fifth, extending their lead to 10-3. Clover added two runs in the top of the 5th, but that was all…

Fort Mill’s track and field teams showcased their strength and depth on March 19th, securing decisive victories over Clover in both the boys’ and girls’ meets. The Yellow Jackets delivered impressive performances across a wide range of events, highlighting their athletes’ dedication and talent. Boys’ Meet Highlights: The Fort Mill boys dominated the track, demonstrating speed and endurance. Standout performances included: Sprints: Brandon Moore and Jahzir Mccants delivered a 1-2 punch in the 100m dash, clocking 11.14 and 11.16 respectively. Mccants also took first place in the 200m dash with a time of 22.57. Wyatt Gremillion won the 400 meter…

FORT MILL, SC – The Fort Mill School District has announced the appointment of Dr. Emily McQuay as the inaugural principal of the forthcoming Flint Hill Middle School. Dr. McQuay brings over 20 years of distinguished educational leadership to her new role. Dr. McQuay’s appointment follows a highly successful tenure as principal of Fort Mill Middle School, where she led the school to achieve significant milestones. Notably, the school received the prestigious Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Lighthouse Award and consistently earned an “Excellent” rating on the South Carolina School Report Card under her leadership. Her extensive career encompasses leadership…

Strategic Planning Update Dr. Mike Waiksnis presented the year four update of the current Fort Mill School District 5 Year Strategic Plan. The work on this plan started in 2019 and has included feedback from countless stakeholders, including students, teachers, administrators, parents, community members, board members and more. The strategic plan has four goal areas: Leadership Capacity Learning Capacity Resource Capacity Personalized Learning Each goal area includes performance goals, strategies and action steps design to support the district overall mission. The next steps in the strategic planning process as we near the end of this cycle are: 2025-26 School Year…

Columbia, SC – Nearly one in four students in South Carolina are missing too much school, according to new data. This makes them chronically absent, which means they miss at least 18 days of school in a 180-day school year. While this is a small improvement from last year, the number of chronically absent students is still almost double what it was before the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts say this is a major problem because students who miss too much school tend to fall behind in their learning. For example, students who are chronically absent are half as likely to be…

FORT MILL, SC – A flurry of local prep sports action unfolded on Monday, March 17th, with Fort Mill High School teams delivering standout performances, while Catawba Ridge faced a narrow defeat. Fort Mill High School: Baseball: The Yellow Jackets’ baseball team delivered a stellar performance on the road, defeating Clover 4-2. This victory propels Fort Mill to a 5-2 overall record and a 2-2 standing in Region 3-5A. Men’s Lacrosse: At home, the varsity men’s lacrosse team displayed an overwhelming offensive prowess, dismantling Dutch Fork with a commanding 14-1 victory. The Yellow Jackets’ dominance on the lacrosse field underscores…

Image from Fort Mill High School Athletics. Post Views: 12

Image credit Nation Ford H.S. athletics. Post Views: 5

York Technical College is turning 60, and they’re throwing a party for the whole community! Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 29th, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM, because you won’t want to miss the Tech Fest 2025, a family-friendly celebration of technology, community, and six decades of educational excellence. This isn’t your average birthday bash. Tech Fest promises a day packed with exciting activities and attractions designed to engage visitors of all ages. From interactive demonstrations showcasing the latest in tech to a classic car show that will transport you back in time, there’s something for everyone to…

Rock Hill, SC – The Trojan Relays track meet, hosted by Northwestern High School, showcased impressive performances from 20 male teams and 18 female teams, including strong representation from York County and one school from Lancaster County. The Fort Mill boys and girls teams made headlines by setting meet records in both the Distance Medley Relay and the 4×800 relay. Girls Meet The Fort Mill girls team emerged victorious with 96 points, followed closely by Nation Ford in second place, Clover in third, and South Pointe in fifth. Other notable finishes included Rock Hill in 8th, Northwestern in 11th, York…

FORT MILL, SC – In a breathtaking display of resilience, the Eastside Eagles women’s lacrosse team completed a stunning comeback, defeating the Nation Ford Falcons 10-9 in overtime Friday night. The game started with Nation Ford seizing early momentum. Canaan Ross opened the scoring, followed quickly by Caitlyn Stolarek, putting the Falcons up 2-0. Eastside responded, scoring twice to tie the game, before taking a 3-2 lead. Nation Ford’s Ava Mayes tied the game at 3-3, ending a fast-paced first quarter. Nation Ford dominated the second quarter, with Mayes scoring her second goal of the night, followed by Ross’s second…

Fort Mill High School has named senior baseball player Alex Carreiro as its Athlete of the Week. Carreiro pitched six innings, allowing no hits and striking out nine batters. The award is sponsored by the Fort Mill Jackets Athletic Booster Club and Fort Mill Super Chix. It recognizes student-athletes for their performance and contributions to their teams. Congratulations to Alex Carreiro on this achievement. Post Views: 21

The Fort Mill School District (FMSD) is asking for community input as it begins its search for a new superintendent. The district’s Board of Trustees is encouraging all stakeholders—including parents, students, teachers, and residents—to complete a survey that will help shape the selection process. The Superintendent Search Survey is available online and will remain open until midnight on March 24, 2025. Community members can access the survey through the district’s website. Take the survey here: Superintendent Search Survey In addition to the survey, FMSD is hosting a Superintendent Search Community Forum on Thursday, March 20, at 6:00 p.m. The forum…

FORT MILL, SC – Heavy rainfall across the region forced the postponement of multiple local high school sporting events on Monday evening. However, student-athletes will return to action today with a full slate of rescheduled games and matches. The inclement weather impacted schedules for Fort Mill High School, Nation Ford High School, and Catawba Ridge High School, requiring quick adjustments to the week’s athletic calendar. Here’s a breakdown of today’s rescheduled events: Fort Mill High School: Track vs. Catawba Ridge, 5 p.m. Varsity Men’s Lacrosse at Charlotte Latin, 5 p.m. Varsity Men’s Tennis vs. Catawba Ridge, 5 p.m. JV Men’s…

Carolina Panthers Charities providing $49,000 in grant funding and additional resources to support the success of pilot program in South Carolina The Carolina Panthers, in partnership with Clover School District, Fort Mill School District, Rock Hill Schools and York School District 1, will celebrate the launch of the York County Middle School Flag Football League on Thursday, March 13, with a high-energy kickoff event at Dutchman Creek Middle School. Fourteen middle school teams will begin league play as part of the pilot program’s inaugural season. Team play will conclude with a league championship on May 3. The intramural/club-level program is…

FORT MILL, SC – On a night when most area prep sports were postponed due to inclement weather, Nation Ford and Ardrey Kell high schools faced off in a fast-paced, high-scoring lacrosse game Monday night. A blistering start propelled the Ardrey Kell Knights to a 17-12 victory over the Nation Ford Falcons in a rain-soaked, high-octane lacrosse matchup. Ardrey Kell’s offense exploded out of the gate, scoring three goals in less than two minutes, setting the tone for a game filled with rapid-fire scoring. The Knights’ dominant early face-off performance, in stark contrast to Nation Ford’s struggles, allowed them to…

The Clash of the Carolinas track meet delivered a thrilling spectacle of athleticism on March 8th, as 39 schools from North and South Carolina converged for a high-stakes showdown. The competition, held amidst fierce rivalry, showcased the region’s top high school track and field talent. Fort Mill emerged as the top team from York county as the girls finished second overall and secured three first-place finishes, including standout performances by Mia Williams in the Girls Long Jump and both the boys and girls 4x800m relay teams who set new meet records. Northwestern’s Austin Smith blazed to victory in the Boys…

SOUTH CAROLINA — High school seniors across South Carolina are encouraged to apply for the Ride of Your Life Scholarship, offered by the South Carolina State Fair, as the application deadline of March 15, 2025, quickly approaches. Now in its 28th year, the scholarship program continues to provide financial support for students pursuing higher education. Applications can be submitted online. This year, the scholarship program has expanded, offering 53 scholarships, an increase from previous years. The additional funding is made possible through generous contributions from Circle K stores and EMC Tickets, with Circle K donating $37,000 to add three more…

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On March 8, 2025, Fort Mill High School’s track teams delivered commendable performances at the Clash of the Carolinas meet, held at Cuthbertson High School in Waxhaw, North Carolina. The event featured 39 teams from both North and South Carolina. Girls’ Team Achievements: Overall Placement: The Fort Mill girls’ team secured second place, finishing behind host Cuthbertson High School. 4×800-Meter Relay: The team clinched first place with a time of 9:38.78, setting a new meet record. Long Jump: Mia Williams won the event with a leap of 17 feet, 7.5 inches. Additional Top Finishers: 100-Meter Dash: Mia Williams placed sixth…

Fort Mill, SC – Fort Mill High School senior Logan Parker has been named Athlete of the Week for his outstanding performance on the basketball court. Parker played a crucial role in the team’s recent run to the state finals, leading with 24 points, six rebounds, two assists, and taking two key charges. Parker’s efforts earned him All-Region and All-State honors, further highlighting his impact on the team. Fort Mill High School recognized Parker’s achievements with the Athlete of the Week award, celebrating his contributions to the team. Post Views: 32

Tega Cay, SC – The Tega Cay Lions Club has announced an extension of the application deadline for its annual college scholarships, now set for April 1, 2025. These scholarships, managed by the Tega Cay Lions Foundation, aim to support local graduating high school seniors in the Fort Mill School District and those in equivalent educational programs residing in the 29708-zip code. Scholarships Available Ron Kazel Scholarship Amount: $2,500 (one-time award) Established: 2008 Eligibility: Open to students demonstrating financial need or physical disability. Bobby Cullen Jr. Scholarship Amount: $2,000 (one-time award) Established: 2014 Eligibility: Open to students demonstrating financial need…

FORT MILL, SC — The Fort Mill School District Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that BWP and Associates has been selected to lead the search for the district’s next superintendent. BWP Associates, a highly regarded executive search firm with extensive experience in K-12 education, stood out for its deep understanding of school systems, commitment to an inclusive search process, and proven ability to identify exceptional leaders. “We believe BWP and Associates’ expertise and collaborative approach will be invaluable in attracting a highly qualified pool of candidates who align with our district’s vision,” said Kristy Spears, FMSD Board Chair….

A depleted Nation Ford lacrosse team, battling injuries and fatigue, put up a valiant effort but ultimately fell 13-9 to Ballantyne Ridge in a hard-fought contest. The Falcons started strong, taking a 4-1 lead after the first quarter with goals from players numbered Ava Tettambel, Sarah Kinley and Caitlyn Stolarek. Canaan Ross extended the lead to 5-1 early in the second quarter, marking her second goal of the night. However, Ballantyne Ridge responded, narrowing the gap to 5-2. A penalty shot goal by Nation Ford’s Kinley, her second of the game, pushed the lead to 6-2. But Ballantyne Ridge continued…

​At the 2025 Student Television Network (STN) National Convention, held in Tampa, Florida, Fort Mill, South Carolina’s high schools showcased exceptional talent, earning multiple accolades across various categories. Catawba Ridge High School: Crazy 8s Morning Show Division I: The Catawba Ridge News (CRN-TV) team secured 2nd place, demonstrating their ability to produce a compelling morning show under tight deadlines. Anchor Team: Eric Johnson and Talia Postel received an Honorable Mention for their outstanding on-air presence and delivery.​ Sports Highlight Editing: Casey Fikis and Morgan Pierce clinched 1st place, showcasing their skill in creating dynamic sports highlight reels.​ Vertical NAT Package:…

FORT MILL, SC — Pleasant Knoll Elementary School has been recognized as a 2025 Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School by the National Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence organization. This prestigious designation highlights the school’s commitment to academic excellence, student support, and community engagement. The recognition follows an extensive evaluation process, which included comprehensive surveys and a two-day site visit. During the visit, evaluators observed classrooms and conducted interviews with students, parents, and teachers to assess the school’s overall performance. Lighthouse Schools are recognized for excelling in nine key categories: Student Focus and Support School Organization and Culture Challenging Standards and Curriculum…

FORT MILL, SC — The Fort Mill School District has named its 2025 Teachers and Support Staff of the Year, recognizing outstanding educators and staff members from each school and facility. These honorees were nominated and voted upon by their peers in recognition of their dedication and contributions to students and the school community. The teachers and support staff selected for this honor will serve as key representatives throughout the 2025-2026 school year, participating in the district’s Teacher and Classified Liaison Committees. Among the honorees are educators across all grade levels and subject areas, including kindergarten, special education, technology, math,…

Greenville rallies in the second half, holds off Fort Mill in a tense finish to secure a spot in the state championship game.

Greenwood rallies from second-half deficit, clinches thrilling overtime victory over Greenville to advance to state championship.

The Fort Mill School Board met on March 4, 2025, to recognize outstanding achievements, provide updates on district initiatives, and discuss financial matters. Highlights included honoring National Board Certified Teachers, the Fort Mill High School wrestling team, and DECA state champions. The board introduced the 2024 Hall of Fame inductees and received an update on the superintendent search process. Financial reports showed strong tax collections and impact fee growth. The board approved new high school courses, named the new 4K facility as Paradise Early Childhood Center, and voted to engage BWP & Associates to assist in hiring a new superintendent….

The South Carolina FFA community recently celebrated its brightest young leaders at the 2025 Miss FFA Scholarship Pageant, held at the Greenwood 50 Performing Arts Center on February 28th. Among the 64 talented contestants, students from Rock Hill, Tega Cay, Fort Mill, and York showcased their dedication to agriculture and personal excellence. The prestigious title of Miss FFA 2025 was awarded to Savannah Griffin from the SC Governor’s School for Agriculture (SCGSA), who also took home a $500 scholarship generously provided by Ag South. Her fellow SCGSA classmate, Elizabeth Viseth, earned the esteemed position of 1st Runner-Up, highlighting the exceptional…

YORK COUNTY, S.C. – Building a home in York County could soon become more expensive as local leaders consider increasing impact fees on new developments to support the construction of additional schools. Under the proposed changes, impact fees could rise to $29,640 per new home and $20,796 per new apartment unit—significantly higher than the current rates of $18,158 per home and $12,020 per apartment, which have been in place since 2018. The Fort Mill School District, which has already collected over $73 million in impact fees since their introduction, has fully funded Flint Hill Elementary School using these funds. With…

FORT MILL, SC – The Fort Mill High School Yellow Jackets lacrosse team delivered a commanding performance against the visiting Spartanburg squad, securing an 11-7 victory. With this win, FMHS improves to 2-1 on the season, while Spartanburg falls to 0-3. The Yellow Jackets set the tone early, winning the opening faceoff. Although an initial offsides turnover threatened their momentum, Patrick Yarborough quickly capitalized on a fast break opportunity, putting FMHS up 1-0 at the 9:37 mark of the first quarter. Spartanburg struggled to find their rhythm, particularly with their clears, allowing the Yellow Jackets to maintain relentless pressure. A…

The Strategic Talent Acquisition and Retention Taskforce (START) report outlines evidence-based recommendations to create a supportive and innovative environment for SC educators. WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) has released a bold and comprehensive blueprint to address the state’s teacher recruitment and retention challenges. Developed in collaboration with educators, policymakers, and national experts, the Strategic Talent Acquisition and Retention Taskforce (START) report outlines evidence-based recommendations to create a supportive and innovative environment for South Carolina educators. “A great teacher is the most transformative in-school influence in a child’s life,” said State Superintendent of Education Ellen…

FORT MILL, SC — Gold Hill Middle School (GHMS) announced today that it has earned Cognia® STEM Certification. GHMS is the first school in the district to receive this certification. Cognia is a nonprofit organization that provides quality assurance for schools, school districts, and education service providers. The media is invited to join us March 21st at 7:45am to recognize Gold Hill Middle School for this prestigious accomplishment. “This certification provides Gold Hill Middle School a nationally recognized mark of quality for our school,” shared Principal Richard Eppes. “It demonstrates to our community our commitment to excellence, our willingness to…

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The Fort Mill High School DECA Club demonstrated its business and marketing expertise at the South Carolina DECA 78th Annual Career Development Conference, a prestigious event where high school students from across the state compete in various business-related challenges. Led by advisor Gina Farley, the FMHS DECA teams had an outstanding performance, winning all their events in round one and securing a 4th place finish in South Carolina after two days of competition. The conference provided students with an opportunity to showcase their skills in entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and leadership, competing against top students from across the state. Fort Mill’s…

Fort Mill defeated Indian Land 58-54 in a thrilling playoff game, advancing to the SCHSL semifinals.

The Fort Mill Yellow Jackets boys lacrosse team kicked off their 2025 season with a 9-6 victory over the Cuthbertson Cavaliers at home Monday night. This was the first game for both teams, as well as the debut of new Fort Mill head coach Alex Tindall. Despite a strong defensive effort from both sides, Fort Mill’s dominance in face-offs proved to be a crucial factor in the win. While both teams struggled with possession and turnovers due to some early-season jitters, the Yellow Jackets were able to capitalize on their opportunities. Fort Mill will look to build on this win…

The Fort Mill High School DECA Club is competing at the South Carolina DECA 78th Annual Career Development Conference, a prestigious statewide competition for high school students showcasing their business and marketing skills. Under the guidance of advisor Gina Farley, the FMHS DECA teams had an outstanding performance, with all teams winning their events today and advancing to the second round tomorrow. This achievement highlights the hard work and dedication of the students as they continue their journey in the competition. Stay tuned for updates on their progress as they compete for top honors in the state! Post Views: 186

The 2025 South Carolina Boys Individual Wrestling Championships, held on February 21-22, showcased some of the state’s best wrestlers. Athletes from Fort Mill, Nation Ford, Catawba Ridge, Rock Hill, and other local high schools put forth strong performances, with several wrestlers placing in the top four in their respective weight classes. State Champions and Top Finishers Indian Land led the way among local schools, winning the overall 5A team title with 99.5 points and producing two individual champions: Samuil Sobko (144 lbs) Jaelen Culp (165 lbs) Rock Hill’s Trey Robinson (190 lbs) also captured a 5A state title, defeating Nation…

The 2025 South Carolina Girls Individual Wrestling Championships, held February 21-22, showcased the state’s top female wrestlers, with several athletes from York and Lancaster County high schools earning top-four finishes. Champions and Top Performers Indian Land’s Addie Shaw claimed the 100-pound state title, cementing her place as one of the state’s best young wrestlers. Meanwhile, Rock Hill’s Sirenity Davis (105 lbs) and Madi Beck (110 lbs) also secured state championships, fresh off the Bearcats’ team championships. At 115 pounds, Clover’s Kalliscya Gardner captured first place, for the Blue Eagles’ growing program. Lancaster’s Nichya Pemberton (170 lbs) took home gold, showcasing…

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Rock Hill, SC – Fort Mill High School showcased its dominance in the Y.C. Winborn Pre-Season Invitational 2025, winning both the boys’ and girls’ team championships. The Fort Mill boys scored 147.5 points, finishing ahead of Nation Ford (115) and Rock Hill (111), while the Fort Mill girls secured an emphatic victory with 187.83 points, outpacing South Pointe (97) and Clover (95). The girls’ team was led by Mia Williams, who won three events: the 200m, long jump, and triple jump. The boys’ team was led by Isaac Campbell, who claimed victory in both the 1600m and 3200m. The girls…

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The roar of “The Hive” echoed through the gym as the undefeated-at-home Fort Mill Yellow Jackets buzzed past the Woodmont Wildcats in a hard-fought second-round playoff clash, securing a 68-54 victory. The tension was palpable from the opening tip-off, as both teams showcased a relentless, aggressive style of play, leaving no doubt about their determination to advance in the Class 5A D-2 Boys Basketball playoffs. The Yellow Jackets drew first blood, quickly establishing a 3-0 lead, setting the tone for a night of intense competition. The initial minutes were a whirlwind of fast breaks, contested shots, and physical defense, with…

In a tense and hard-fought second-round playoff matchup, the Greenville Red Raiders defeated the Fort Mill Yellow Jackets 40-35 on Friday night. Greenville came out firing, establishing a dominant 13-0 lead in the first quarter, fueled by a relentless full-court press and strong rebounding. Fort Mill struggled to find their offensive rhythm, facing intense defensive pressure. However, the Yellow Jackets demonstrated resilience, making crucial adjustments in the second quarter. Fort Mill outscored Greenville 14-10 in the second period, showing improved rebounding and offensive execution. Though still missing some high percentage shots, they began to close the gap, entering halftime trailing…

By: Jessica Holdman     South Carolina Daily Gazette COLUMBIA — South Carolina’s public colleges have frozen tuition charged to in-state students for upwards of five years. That could change. House budget writers want to loosen the strings attached to additional state funding for universities that agree to keep tuition level for the students who call South Carolina home. This money has continuously been at the top of budget wish lists for Palmetto State colleges when they’ve come to state legislators for funding each year. For the coming fiscal year, schools collectively asked for $130 million. House budget writers are suggesting the state…

Fort Mill High School has recognized junior basketball player Kate Marker as the Athlete of the Week for her outstanding performance on the court. Marker played a key role for the Yellow Jackets, scoring a total of 42 points across three games while averaging 6.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. The Athlete of the Week award is sponsored by the Fort Mill Yellow Jackets Athletic Booster Club and Super Chix, which help recognize and celebrate student-athletes for their achievements.   Post Views: 23