GCS Breaks Ground on Reedy Laurel Elementary
On Tuesday, October 29, Greenville County Schools celebrated the groundbreaking of Reedy Laurel Elementary School.
“We are excited to begin planting the seeds of learning in August of 2025 by creating an environment that balances the academic rigor and expectations celebrated across Greenville County Schools with the excitement the world of science brings young minds,” said Principal Matt Critell. “Captivating our young scientists’ minds by experiencing environmental science through our greenhouse, school garden, Wet Lab, and Tech Lab will be at the core of the student experience on this campus and within this facility.”
The school at 61 Isbell Lane in Greenville will open in August 2025. Its name honors the location between the Reedy River and Laurel Creek, complementing its environmental science focus.
“This new school is designed to meet the needs of the programs within its walls but also designed with flexibility to meet the future needs of our students and growing community. Thank you for being a part of this celebration for our newest elementary school,” shared Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster.
Once completed, the two-story, 119,000-square-foot building will house approximately 750 students and will offer a specialized program centered around environmental science, teaching students how to apply their scientific knowledge, become lifelong learners, and contribute to a sustainable world. Through a standards-based curriculum, students will explore the world of environmental science in meaningful and hands-on ways.
The new school will include an on-site greenhouse, a wet lab for hydroponics, a tech lab, 50 spacious classrooms, and a large outdoor playground.
“As we embark on this journey together, we look forward to the countless memories and achievements that await in this new school. I thank you for being here today and for your support as a community,” said Dr. Carolyn Styles, Greenville County Schools Board of Trustees Chair and Area 17 Representative.
“We are delighted to have students participating in the program today from Beck International Academy, Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School, and J.L. Mann High Academy where Reedy Laurel students will most frequently attend. It is student participation and involvement like this that is the foundation of our success,” said Greenville County Schools Board of Trustees Area 24 Representative Dr. Anne Pressley.
The plan is to initially populate Reedy Laurel Elementary School with grades K5 through 2nd and add one additional grade per academic year. Under this plan, all six grade levels, K5 through 5th, will be fully populated in 2028-29.