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Changes and Improvements in Horry County Schools for 2024

Horry County Schools introduces new safety protocols for students.

News Summary

Horry County Schools is undergoing significant changes in 2024, including new leadership, enhanced safety measures, a substantial budget, and the opening of new schools. After Dr. Rick Maxey’s retirement, Dr. Eddie Ingram has become interim superintendent. The district is implementing new security systems and giving teachers raises. Notably, they are set to open new elementary schools by 2025. These changes reflect the district’s commitment to creating a safer and more effective learning environment for students and staff.

Exciting Changes in Horry County Schools for 2024!

Horry County, get ready for a whirlwind of updates in your local school district! The 2024 calendar year has been a notable one for Horry County Schools (HCS), featuring a transition in leadership, a significant focus on safety, and exciting plans for new school openings. Grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into what’s been happening!

Farewell to an Era and Hello to New Leadership

This year marked the retirement of former superintendent, Dr. Rick Maxey, who decided to hang up his hat early on April 29, 2024, with two years remaining on his contract. With Dr. Maxey’s departure, the HCS board quickly rolled into action to appoint an interim successor. They chose Dr. Eddie Ingram to step into the role on May 15. Dr. Ingram will be working with a monthly salary of $19,000, plus an additional $1,000 to cover car expenses. While a nationwide search for a permanent superintendent kicked off, excitement isn’t stopping there!

All About Safety: New Security Measures

In light of recent events, safety is front and center in HCS. A situation at Myrtle Beach Middle School on February 6 brought to light the need for heightened security awareness when a student was detained for bringing a handgun and ammunition onto campus. In response, the school board sprang into action, announcing plans to upgrade the district’s security measures.

By March, HCS selected the OPENGATE weapons detection system to be rolled out across schools, with the goal of having everything ready before the start of the 2024-25 school year in August. All students will now use clear backpacks—another step toward ensuring safety is prioritized. If you see something suspicious, HCS has got you covered! They introduced the “See Something, Say Something app” in March, allowing students and staff to report concerns conveniently from their devices.

Financial Footnotes: Budget Plans and Bonuses

When it comes to funding, the school board has given a thumbs up to a whopping $1.16 billion budget for the upcoming school year (2024-25). This budget includes a lovely $2,000 raise for teachers, along with an additional 2% increase. However, the board decided not to move forward with hiring 45 more assistant principals this time around. But there’s good news on bonus payments too! A total of $500 bonuses will be given to all full-time, part-time, and hourly employees, costing the district around $5.6 million overall in an effort to appreciate their hard work.

A Brand New, Sparkling School on the Horizon

Meanwhile, there’s been a buzz about new schools popping up in the district. A short while back, the grand opening of the state-of-the-art Whittemore Park Middle School took place on July 31, following construction efforts that kicked off in October 2022. But that’s not it! HCS is also gearing up to open two new elementary schools in the scenic Carolina Forest area for the 2025-26 school year, namely Ten Oaks Elementary School and Pine Island Elementary School. These additions are sure to be a welcome boost for the expanding community.

Plans for an Enhanced Digital Learning Environment

As technology continues to revolutionize the educational landscape, HCS board members have taken a firm stance on managing device usage. From January 22, 2025, students will experience a more structured environment as the board has approved an electronic device policy banning the use of cell phones, smart watches, tablets, and similar gadgets within school hours. Time to refocus on learning!

So, there you have it—a big year of transition, safety improvements, budget boosts, and school openings in Horry County Schools! The path ahead looks bright, and the community should be excited about the future of education here. Stay tuned for more updates!