Lexington, SC, July 25, 2025
News Summary
The Lexington-Richland Five School District is implementing a major rezoning initiative for its elementary schools in response to growing student numbers. Approximately 988 students will be transferred to a new elementary campus for the upcoming school year, supported by $240 million in bond funding. The plan also includes security upgrades and campus renovations to enhance safety and the learning environment as enrollment exceeds current capacities, particularly in the Chapin area.
Lexington
The Lexington-Richland Five School District is set to implement significant changes in its elementary school zoning for the 2026-27 school year, following the approval of a $240 million bond referendum by voters last November. The upcoming rezoning is projected to transfer approximately 988 students into a new elementary campus as part of a broader reorganization strategy to better accommodate the district’s growing student population, which currently stands at 17,000.
Included within the reorganization is the elimination of two intermediate schools, paving the way for a traditional progression from elementary to middle to high school. In alignment with this structure, nearly all five middle schools in the district will funnel into a single high school by 2026, with the exception of Crossroads Middle School, which will direct students to both Dutch Fork and Irmo high schools.
While the high school zoning will largely remain stable, a special “preferred pathways” plan is being introduced, impacting around 75 students residing near Salem Church Road.
A new Dutch Fork Elementary School is currently under design, with plans for the existing campus to be repurposed as the Richlex Education Center for various district programs. In addition, plans are in motion for renovations and security enhancements at multiple schools, including new classroom wings for Chapin and Lake Murray elementary schools, set to commence in early August.
The rezoning initiative primarily aims to address the space constraints faced in the rapidly expanding Chapin area, although concerns persist regarding potential overcrowding at Chapin High School. To help alleviate this issue, some Chapin High students will be reassigned to the magnet Spring Hill High School.
Superintendent Akil Ross has highlighted the significance of achieving equitable student enrollment across the district and improving the student feeder lines during this transition. In a parallel effort to enhance security measures, $5.1 million has been allocated for the installation of new surveillance systems and modifications to school entrances.
The new bond funding will contribute to the construction of 12 new security vestibules, upgrades to campus facilities, and crucial infrastructure repairs necessary for maintaining safe and conducive learning environments within the schools. A Citizens Advisory Review Team will be established to foster community involvement throughout the funding and construction processes.
Once the key projects funded by this bond are completed, any residual funds will be directed towards the development of covered practice fields at several high schools within the district.
Key Project Details
- Elementary Rezoning: 988 students moved for 2026-27.
- New Dutch Fork Elementary School design underway.
- Chapin area capacity concerns addressed with student reassignment.
- Security upgrades across campuses, totaling $5.1 million.
- Creation of a Citizens Advisory Review Team for community engagement.
- Infrastructure improvements and construction of security vestibules.
Background Context
In light of escalating student enrollment and the increasing demand for school resources, the Lexington-Richland Five School District has initiated this major restructuring effort. With existing schools nearing capacity, this move denotes a critical response to preserving the quality of education while ensuring safety and accessibility for all students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the rezoning of elementary schools?
The rezoning aims to accommodate the growing student population and alleviate space issues within the district, particularly in the Chapin area.
How many students will be impacted by the rezoning?
Approximately 988 students are expected to be rezoned into a new elementary campus.
When will the changes take effect?
The new zoning plans will take effect for the 2026-27 school year.
What security measures are being implemented?
The district is investing $5.1 million in new surveillance systems and renovations to enhance school security across campuses.
Will students currently enrolled in elementary schools be affected?
Students can complete their fifth grade at current campuses if there is available space, using a first-come, first-served approach without district-provided bus service.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Zoning Changes | 988 students rezoned; effective 2026-27. |
| New School Development | Design of Dutch Fork Elementary School underway. |
| Capacity Solutions | Relocating some Chapin High students to Spring Hill High. |
| Security Enhancements | $5.1 million allocated for increased surveillance and safety. |
| Community Engagement | Establishment of a Citizens Advisory Review Team. |
| Infrastructure Improvements | 12 new security vestibules and various repairs planned. |
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Lexington-Richland Five School District Rezoning
- Wikipedia: School District
- ABC Columbia: Bond Referendum for Lex-Rich School District
- Google Search: Lexington Richland Five School District
- WIS TV: Lexington-Richland School District 5 Rezoning Plans
- Google Scholar: Lexington Richland Five School District Rezoning
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
