Following the transition Spartanburg High School made in 2019 to the new high school location, McCracken Middle School also made the transfer from their previous location on Webber Road into the old high school building. The “new” McCracken underwent renovations before the move. The majority of renovations were done to update the ‘D’ wing of the building, including new floors, ceilings and new collaboration spaces similar to those at the high school. The B and C wings were demolished, opening up access to a new green space. The main entrance is now located at the former Freshman Academy entrance, and the address is officially 500 Dupre Drive.  

Despite the week-long delay of in-person learning, the Eagles are now enjoying their time in the new building. Stuart Phillips (8) has had an overall positive experience in the new building.

“The building is very easy to navigate. The classes are mostly in the same place, and I love seeing my friends again,” Phillips said.

Attendees have expressed a liking for the layout of the school, even noting how similar it is to the old McCracken. Phillips said this year is already better than his other years at McCracken and how the changes to rules, such as walking in the hallways and seating, are beneficial. Newcomers have expressed that the transition from elementary to middle school was much better than they thought.  

“We are so excited to be in our beautiful and new home.  We are so very grateful to District 7 for this incredible gift,” Peach said.

The school has replaced the previous navy blue and gold colors to now sport the green and gold of McCracken.  Principal Margaret Peach can’t wait to begin fully using their collaborative spaces when the area is safe to use for everyone.

“We are so excited to be in our beautiful and new home.  We have space to grow and to learn without being crowded.  Our collaboration areas are amazing.  We cannot wait for our outdoor spaces and gym to be complete.  We are so very grateful to District 7 for this incredible gift,” Peach said.

Annie Colbath (11) attended the old location her freshman year and now has siblings who call it McCracken.

“It feels different to me because I remember my old teacher’s classrooms being at that school. It is also different because I remember going to games to watch out teams at that school,” Colbath said.

Students and teachers are enjoying the large classrooms that allow adequate spacing for social distancing. The building is not finished with renovations and demolitions, as parts were delayed after complications with COVID-19. The construction workers and teaching staff worked very hard to have the school and classrooms ready to go. Staff had to pack everything up from the old school and bring it to the new one and did their best to have everything available and sanitary for all attendees to use. 

Spartanburg High math teacher and McCracken parent, Joy Bryant, is excited about McCracken’s move into the former SHS building.

“The new MMS and its grounds have so much more to offer to students.  Especially with the renovations that have been done throughout the building.  There is more room for academic and athletic growth among the students.  From the science lab rooms to the updated technology throughout to the many gyms and fields, there is something for all students to be excited about,” Bryant said.