BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — Berkeley County School District is preparing to open the doors to two brand new schools this fall, a milestone district leaders say reflects the rapid growth occurring across the county.
Over the past week, district officials, elected leaders, staff members and community residents gathered to celebrate ribbon-cutting ceremonies for Bee Tree Elementary in the Jedburg area and Midtown Middle in Nexton. Both schools are scheduled to welcome their first students when the 2026-27 school year begins in August.
The new campuses represent the latest effort by the district to keep pace with continued residential growth in Berkeley County, one of the fastest-growing counties in South Carolina.
Bee Tree Elementary Welcomes Founding Families
Community members gathered June 12 to celebrate the opening of Bee Tree Elementary, where district officials officially cut the ribbon on the new campus.
Following the ceremony, attendees participated in a program featuring founding principal Dr. Marion Baird, Superintendent Dr. Anthony Dixon and Berkeley County School Board At-Large member Cindy Coats.
Guests then toured portions of the new building and enjoyed refreshments while families had the opportunity to purchase school merchandise and pick up commemorative yard signs recognizing founding students.
The school is expected to begin serving students this August.
Midtown Middle Opens in Nexton
Earlier in the week, district officials hosted a similar celebration for Midtown Middle, which will serve students in the rapidly expanding Nexton area.
The June 9 event drew a large crowd and featured future Midtown students leading attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Students also played a hands-on role throughout the celebration, helping assemble and distribute space-themed goodie bags to visitors.
Following the ribbon cutting, attendees toured portions of the campus and participated in several STEM-focused activities.
The district’s StarLab planetarium was set up inside the gymnasium, while the iTow technology truck provided opportunities for students to experiment with robotics and create Midtown-themed keychains.
A local beverage truck was also on hand during the festivities.
