VIP News | August 2026
August 26, 2026 Edition
Welcome to VIP News, a newsletter that is distributed to GCS employees and community leaders to update them about important GCS news and events. If you have any questions about the Board meeting or news articles, please contact the Communications Department.
News
Alexander Elementary’s Academic Gains Highlighted During Visit by SC Superintendent Ellen Weaver
GCS Outperforms State on SC READY, End-of-Course and Career Ready Assessments
Unofficial Board Meeting Summary
August 25, 2026
Welcome, Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Darren Rickenbacker, a senior at Eastside High.
Adoption of Consent Calendar
2.01 Minutes, Regular Board Meeting - June 9, 2026
2.02 Minutes, Special Called Meeting - August 18, 2026
2.03 Home Schooling Applications (Executive Session) - 20
Appearance of Visitors
Sarah Beth Wood - Thank You For New Technology Guidelines
Chelsey Troutman - Teacher Forum
Katie Haitz - Rule IA
Grace Pouch - Rule IA
Jeffrey Lawson - Sirrine Stadium Thank You
Superintendent’s Report
Dr. Royster updated the Board on the many projects completed over the summer, highlighting how the months between the school years are a busy and productive time for GCS, from facilities improvements and academic initiatives to professional development for employees.
Action Items
Right-of-Way Road Improvements and Permission for Slopes at the New Northwest Middle
The Board of Trustees approved the deeding of 1.251 acres of land at the New Northwest Middle School to the Greenville Legislative Delegation Transportation Committee for road improvements on Robertson Road and Belvue Road and approved construction slope permissions.
Piedmont Natural Gas Company, Inc. Right-of-Way and Easement Request at Bryson Elementary
The Board approved granting the requested right-of-way and easement at Bryson Elementary School.
Riverside Middle Lease Agreement Renewal with the City of Greer
Trustees approved a lease agreement renewal with the City of Greer, allowing the city to use the softball, baseball and football fields at Riverside Middle School to provide recreational services to the surrounding community.
Procurement Review Panel
Board members appointed Scott Cline to serve as the Chair of the Procurement Review Panel in accordance with the District’s Procurement Code and applicable South Carolina law.
MBE Utilization Plan
The Board approved the FY 27 Minority Business Enterprise Utilization Plan as presented.
Physical Education Exemptions (Executive Session)
Board members approved physical education exemptions for two students at Mauldin Middle School.
Information Items
Committee/Liaison Reports
South Carolina School Boards Association - Mrs. Morrison-Fair - The SCSBA Law Conference is this weekend in Greenville.
Advocacy Committee - Dr. Styles on behalf of Mr. Saylors - There will be an Advocacy Committee meeting immediately following the September Committee of the Whole meeting.
Finance Report
The District’s monthly financial statements were presented to the Board of Trustees as an information item.
The meeting adjourned at 6:35 p.m.