State Superintendent Molly Spearman Announces $38 Million in Infrastructure Funding for Abbeville County School District

State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman today announced the allocation of $38 million in state funding to Abbeville County School District to assist in the renovation of antiquated existing school facilities with safe, modern facilities to accommodate current and future county enrollment trends. The funding is part of the $140 million under Proviso 1.92 of the General Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2022-2023.

In April of 2022, the SCDE commissioned independent facility studies of schools in the state’s poorest counties to aid in decision making for capital funding appropriated by the General Assembly for disadvantaged schools. Abbeville County comprises eight schools, a career center and an adult education child care center. Current enrollment of the county-wide district is approximately 2,946 students.

The independent review of schools in Abbeville County concluded the age and condition of the schools are problematic toward long term educational use without significant modification and renovation. The facility assessment team recommended the following:

• Major renovations and additions to both Abbeville High and Dixie High School classroom space and cafeteria;
• Major renovations to the Career Center.

Pending board approval at a special-called meeting on August 25, the funding being provided by the SCDE will be used in addition to district funding for the following projects:

Dixie High School

• One two-story academic wing
• A new kitchen and cafeteria

Abbeville High School

• One two-story academic wing
• A new kitchen and cafeteria

Abbeville County Career Center

• New office and program space

QUOTES:
“With school facilities over 60 years of age, the time is now for Abbeville County to address facilities issues in order to provide their students, families, and educators with safe places for teaching and learning,” said State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman. “With the influx of COVID-19 relief money and generous support of the General Assembly, the South Carolina Department of Education is pleased to be able to provide this additional funding for the district to make necessary renovations.”

“What a tremendous day for our students, parents, teachers and the entire Abbeville County community,” said Rep. Craig Gagnon, who serves District 11 in the General Assembly and chairman of the Abbeville Legislative Delegation. “I am most appreciative of the state of South Carolina’s investment in Abbeville – one that will allow educators and students to thrive in a safe and effective learning space.” 

“A sincere thank you to Superintendent Spearman and the South Carolina General Assembly for this significant investment into our great district,” said Dr. Mason Gary, Superintendent of Abbeville County School District. “Each day, the Abbeville County School District puts its students first and today’s announcement bolsters that claim. We are excited for the renovations to begin.”