Exciting Developments in Carolina Forest: Two New Elementary Schools Set to Open with Unique Names and Mascots!

Exciting Developments in Carolina Forest: Two New Elementary Schools Set to Open with Unique Names and Mascots!

Welcome to the buzz in Carolina Forest, where the anticipation is building for two brand-new elementary schools that are set to open in the 2025-26 school year! With more than 48,000 students enrolled, Horry County Schools is that ever-expanding garden of knowledge and opportunity. Not only is it a massive hub for learning, but it also happens to be the largest employer in the county! Talk about making a big impact!

What’s in a Name?

Let’s dive right into the details, shall we? Recently, Joe Burch, the board’s Executive Director of Capital Projects, took center stage proposing the names for these two upcoming schools based on valuable input from a dedicated naming committee. The big reveal is just around the corner, as the Horry County Schools Board of Education is set to finalize everything at its next meeting on Monday, November 18. The excitement is palpable!

Meet Ten Oaks Elementary School!

First up, we have the proposed name Ten Oaks Elementary School, which will sit pretty at the corner of Carolina Forest Boulevard and Stafford Drive. The name is a cozy match for its big sibling, Ten Oaks Middle School. If all goes according to plan with the attendance lines, kiddos from Ten Oaks Elementary will seamlessly flow onto Ten Oaks Middle. Nice, right?

As for the mascot, picture this: a fun and spirited red fox! Burch mentioned that the committee thought this little fella would make a delightful companion to Ten Oaks Middle’s existing silver fox mascot. A family of foxes sounds like a winning team!

Introducing Pine Island Elementary School!

Now, let’s move over to the other new establishment located at the corner of Ronald McNair Boulevard and Christa McAuliffe Street, tentatively named Pine Island Elementary School. This name pays homage to the historic unincorporated area of Pine Island, which has roots back to the early 1900s as an experimental farm community. How cool is that?

The mascot for Pine Island Elementary? Get ready for the adorable pelican to take flight! Sporting a vibrant green and yellow color scheme, this charming bird represents the local wildlife and brings a unique flair to the school spirit. Burch noted that no other school in the district was using the pelican, making it a perfect contender to stand out!

Changes in Attendance Lines

Now, keep in mind, with the arrival of these fresh faces on the educational scene, there will be some updates to the current attendance lines. Carolina Forest Elementary, Ocean Bay Elementary, and River Oaks Elementary will see some changes. But don’t worry! The lines for Palmetto Bays Elementary and Waccamaw Elementary will remain untouched. For more information on these adjustments, Horry County Schools has set up a dedicated page on their website with all the details and proposed attendance maps.

Remember, folks, education is dynamic, and these newcomers are here to enhance the rich tapestry of learning in our community. With the future in mind, Horry County Schools continues to pave the way for growth and opportunity. So, whether you’re a parent, teacher, or student, there’s plenty to get excited about! Make sure to stay tuned for the upcoming board meeting and the official names, mascots, and colors!

Let’s keep our community informed and engaged as we build a brighter tomorrow for our little ones. Education is where it all begins, after all!