District 7 is proud to shine a spotlight on the exceptional talent of our students and the dedication of our educators. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has announced its 2026 Semifinalists and Commended Students in the 71st annual recognition program, and three outstanding Spartanburg High School seniors have earned these prestigious honors.
This year, we proudly celebrate National Merit Semifinalists Sebastian Cartwright and Myles Klosterman. Their achievement places them among the top 1% of the 1.3 million high school seniors who entered the competition nationwide. Spartanburg High School distinguished itself by having more semifinalists than any other public high school in Spartanburg County — a reflection of the excellence that defines District 7.
We also proudly recognize National Merit Commended Student Josiah Rogers. This honor places him in the top 3% of students nationwide and reflects both his hard work and the strong academic foundation built in District 7 schools.
Spartanburg High School Principal Dr. Andrew McMillan shared, “These honors highlight the strength of a District 7 education. From elementary through high school, our teachers and staff nurture curiosity, challenge students, and open doors to opportunity. We celebrate these students not just for what they’ve achieved, but for the future leaders they are becoming.”
7SHINE through these remarkable accomplishments, thanks to the brilliance of our students, the dedication of our teachers, and the support of our community. Together, we are inspiring and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.
#7SHINES
#ToInspireAndEquip
#OurD7Story
This year, we proudly celebrate National Merit Semifinalists Sebastian Cartwright and Myles Klosterman. Their achievement places them among the top 1% of the 1.3 million high school seniors who entered the competition nationwide. Spartanburg High School distinguished itself by having more semifinalists than any other public high school in Spartanburg County — a reflection of the excellence that defines District 7.
We also proudly recognize National Merit Commended Student Josiah Rogers. This honor places him in the top 3% of students nationwide and reflects both his hard work and the strong academic foundation built in District 7 schools.
Spartanburg High School Principal Dr. Andrew McMillan shared, “These honors highlight the strength of a District 7 education. From elementary through high school, our teachers and staff nurture curiosity, challenge students, and open doors to opportunity. We celebrate these students not just for what they’ve achieved, but for the future leaders they are becoming.”
7SHINE through these remarkable accomplishments, thanks to the brilliance of our students, the dedication of our teachers, and the support of our community. Together, we are inspiring and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.
#7SHINES
#ToInspireAndEquip
#OurD7Story
🏈 Enjoy some midweek fun by cheering on our FUTURE Vikings as Carver and McCracken’s football teams face off in Viking Stadium! 🏈
Our annual “Battle for the Brag” began last year and is a not-to-miss event. Whether your student is a current, future, or past Eagle or Wildcat, they have some skin in this game!
Join us at 5:30 PM on Wednesday and be ready to GET LOUD!! ♥️💛/💚💛/💙💛
D7 School Board Announces Application Process to Fill Vacancy
The District Seven Board of Trustees is seeking to fill a vacancy on their nine-member board following the resignation of Rick Gray, who served district 7-4. The Board provides leadership by shaping policy, supporting the superintendent, ensuring the district’s goals are achieved, and maintaining effective communication.
See the announcement, district board seat map, and application at https://spartanburg7.org/BoardVacancy_7_4
The District Seven Board of Trustees is seeking to fill a vacancy on their nine-member board following the resignation of Rick Gray, who served district 7-4. The Board provides leadership by shaping policy, supporting the superintendent, ensuring the district’s goals are achieved, and maintaining effective communication.
See the announcement, district board seat map, and application at https://spartanburg7.org/BoardVacancy_7_4
✨ 7Shines Spotlight on National College Colors Day ✨
“Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead.” – Nora Ephron
This reminder speaks to the promise we see in every student — that each step along the way is preparing them to shine, to lead, and to leave their mark on the world.
On National College Colors Day, our D7 schools lit up with team pride and vibrant spirit, as students and staff came together to celebrate their future dreams. It was a day filled with color, energy, and hope — a glimpse of the bright paths our Vikings are destined to take.
Enjoy these highlights from the celebration, and we look forward to seeing everyone back on Tuesday, September 2. Wishing you a safe and joyful Labor Day weekend!
#D7CollegeColors #7Shines
College Colors are out today!! We are showing our pride!
Don't forget College Colors day tomorrow. Go Tigers!!
D7 PHONE & EMAIL ACCESS IS RESTORED
(Wednesday, August 27 at 12:30 PM)
Service via our internet provider has now been restored, so D7 schools and offices now have access to phones and email. Thank you for your patience as we resume these communications!
Previous message:
TEMPORARY D7 PHONE & EMAIL OUTAGE
(Wednesday, August 27 at 9:30 AM)
Due to a cut fiber impacting service via our internet provider, D7 schools and offices are temporarily without phone and email. If you are attempting to reach us, please know that we will respond as soon as service is restored. An update will be posted as soon as service is restored.
📣 This Friday, District 7 will join the nationwide celebration of College Colors Day! 📣
Show your pride, traditions, and excitement for college life by wearing your favorite college or university gear. Not only does this day fuel enthusiasm for football season, but it also sparks meaningful conversations with our students about college and career aspirations.
As we live out our mission to Inspire and Equip and our theme for the year, 7Shines, College Colors Day is the perfect chance to highlight the promise of higher education and brighten our community with school spirit.
📸 Don’t forget to share your College Colors Day moments using #D7CollegeColors so we can spread the joy across the district!
✨ Let’s make this a shining celebration!
#7Shines
District 7 is excited to announce our annual district-wide musical will be the beloved classic, "The Wizard of Oz"! 🌈 With the excitement surrounding the upcoming release of "Wicked: For Good", our students will have the perfect opportunity to revisit the magical world of Oz and its unforgettable characters.
Students from all District 7 schools are invited to be part of making this production a spectacular experience! We can’t wait to see our talented performers shine on stage as we bring this magical journey to life.
Auditions will be held this fall - look for information coming soon.
Let’s follow the yellow brick road together!
Students from all District 7 schools are invited to be part of making this production a spectacular experience! We can’t wait to see our talented performers shine on stage as we bring this magical journey to life.
Auditions will be held this fall - look for information coming soon.
Let’s follow the yellow brick road together!
Eagles, give a big welcome to one of our new Behavior Interventionists Tra'Shawn Standifer on a Friday afternoon.
My name is Tra’Shawn! I love Jesus, family, and music. I’m from Mississippi, so my dialect may give me away. I am married with a daughter and a son on the way. I am beginning my first year here at McCarthy Teszler Elementary School and I am excited about the journey ahead!
My name is Tra’Shawn! I love Jesus, family, and music. I’m from Mississippi, so my dialect may give me away. I am married with a daughter and a son on the way. I am beginning my first year here at McCarthy Teszler Elementary School and I am excited about the journey ahead!
We are so excited to welcome our new Mental Health Counselor!
My name is Adrianne Griffin, I have several years of experience working with children from diverse backgrounds. I have a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and look forward to providing counseling to the students at McCarthy Teszler as Mental Health Counselor.
My name is Adrianne Griffin, I have several years of experience working with children from diverse backgrounds. I have a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and look forward to providing counseling to the students at McCarthy Teszler as Mental Health Counselor.
Please welcome our new Program Specialist, Sarah Cooper. Mrs. Cooper will be working with the Middle and High School vocational programs. She will also be working with our Teszler classes. Please make her feel welcome!
Hello, my name is Sarah Cooper, and I am thrilled to be back in Spartanburg District Seven! I previously worked in District Seven for six years and bring 12 years of experience as a special education teacher. Most recently, I have been serving as a Family Education Specialist with Family Connection of South Carolina, where I’ve supported families in navigating the special education process. I am passionate about advocating for students with exceptional needs and partnering with families to help every child thrive. I can’t wait to learn, grow, and make a difference with our amazing team this year!
Hello, my name is Sarah Cooper, and I am thrilled to be back in Spartanburg District Seven! I previously worked in District Seven for six years and bring 12 years of experience as a special education teacher. Most recently, I have been serving as a Family Education Specialist with Family Connection of South Carolina, where I’ve supported families in navigating the special education process. I am passionate about advocating for students with exceptional needs and partnering with families to help every child thrive. I can’t wait to learn, grow, and make a difference with our amazing team this year!
We took a short pause on our introductions as we got school started. Let's keep the welcomes going with another new Eagle, that looks familiar! Mr. Matt Marola joined us in the middle of last year.
I'm originally from Connecticut and have worked with people with disabilities for 15 years. I live in Moore with my wife and two children. I enjoy golfing and watching my kids play sports. This will be my first full year teaching and I am excited to begin
I'm originally from Connecticut and have worked with people with disabilities for 15 years. I live in Moore with my wife and two children. I enjoy golfing and watching my kids play sports. This will be my first full year teaching and I am excited to begin
On August 6, our D7 faculty and staff packed the Viking Arena with energy and excitement as we kicked off the 2025–2026 school year in true District 7 style!
From a vibrant flag processional to honoring our incredible iReady Champions, Support Staff of the Year, Crystal Apple Award winners, and Teachers of the Year — it was a celebration like no other.
We also unveiled this year’s inspiring theme: 7 SHINES ✨
More than just a theme, 7 SHINES reflects the light within every student and the power we have when we shine together. It’s a symbol of hope, growth, and possibility — reminding us that every student has unique gifts and purpose that deserve to be seen, nurtured, and celebrated. In D7, our teachers, staff, and leaders are lighting the way for every child’s success.
One of the morning’s brightest moments was the announcement of our 2025 District Teacher of the Year — Alicia Fulmer, a kindergarten teacher at Pine Street Elementary! Described as calm, focused, and overflowing with compassion, Ms. Fulmer truly represents the heart of D7. Congratulations!
We also proudly celebrated each of our 2025 Teachers of the Year from every school — a group of passionate, dedicated educators making a difference every day.
✨ Crystal Apple Awards were presented to our amazing first-year teachers, with a special shoutout to Naomi Bynum of Drayton Mills, our district-level winner!
👏 And hats off to our 2025 Support Staff Members of the Year, who keep our schools running smoothly and make a lasting impact behind the scenes.
We can’t wait to welcome our students back — the energy is high, the passion is real, and our commitment to helping every child shine has never been stronger.
From a vibrant flag processional to honoring our incredible iReady Champions, Support Staff of the Year, Crystal Apple Award winners, and Teachers of the Year — it was a celebration like no other.
We also unveiled this year’s inspiring theme: 7 SHINES ✨
More than just a theme, 7 SHINES reflects the light within every student and the power we have when we shine together. It’s a symbol of hope, growth, and possibility — reminding us that every student has unique gifts and purpose that deserve to be seen, nurtured, and celebrated. In D7, our teachers, staff, and leaders are lighting the way for every child’s success.
One of the morning’s brightest moments was the announcement of our 2025 District Teacher of the Year — Alicia Fulmer, a kindergarten teacher at Pine Street Elementary! Described as calm, focused, and overflowing with compassion, Ms. Fulmer truly represents the heart of D7. Congratulations!
We also proudly celebrated each of our 2025 Teachers of the Year from every school — a group of passionate, dedicated educators making a difference every day.
✨ Crystal Apple Awards were presented to our amazing first-year teachers, with a special shoutout to Naomi Bynum of Drayton Mills, our district-level winner!
👏 And hats off to our 2025 Support Staff Members of the Year, who keep our schools running smoothly and make a lasting impact behind the scenes.
We can’t wait to welcome our students back — the energy is high, the passion is real, and our commitment to helping every child shine has never been stronger.
This team shines bright! Welcome 2025-2026
Meet Sasha Comer – Our Newest Team Member at McCarthy Teszler!
We are excited to welcome Sasha Comer to McCarthy Teszler School for her first year on campus! Sasha joins us with a strong background in organization and support services, having previously served as the Office Manager for the District 7 Transportation Office. Her attention to detail, dedication to teamwork, and friendly demeanor made her a valued part of the district—and now we’re lucky to have her here at McCarthy Teszler.
When Sasha isn’t keeping things running smoothly at work, she enjoys a well-balanced life filled with laughter, creativity, and a touch of feline charm. You can often find her spending time with her husband and friends, diving into her latest craft project, or curled up with her cat—though not always in that order!
Sasha brings a warm spirit, a can-do attitude, and a love for helping others to our school community. Be sure to stop by and say hello—you might just leave with a smile (and possibly a few crafting tips).
Welcome, Sasha—we’re thrilled to have you on board!
District 7's schools and offices will open at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 6th so our employees can gather for our annual Opening Convocation. This special kick-off for the new school year is a celebration of the important role each member of our D7 faculty and staff plays in the lives of our students and families.
Please note that all District 7 facilities will be closed until 11 a.m. Wednesday and thank you for your understanding.
Please note that all District 7 facilities will be closed until 11 a.m. Wednesday and thank you for your understanding.
Hi friends! My name is Grace Valentine!
I have several years of experience working with children with special needs in different fields. I’ve worked at McCarthy Tezler as an assistant and substitute. I am excited to return to the Peach Hall as a teacher this year!! ☺️
We have another familiar face in a new role! Welcome Back Martha!
My name is Martha Taylor. I have been a Teacher Assistant for the past 3 years here at McCarthy Teszler. I moved from Dayton, Ohio, 3 years ago, but grew up in Spartanburg. This will be my 1st year as a Special Education Teacher at McCarthy. However, I taught Special Education in Ohio for 19 years. I am looking forward to a fabulous school year!
My name is Martha Taylor. I have been a Teacher Assistant for the past 3 years here at McCarthy Teszler. I moved from Dayton, Ohio, 3 years ago, but grew up in Spartanburg. This will be my 1st year as a Special Education Teacher at McCarthy. However, I taught Special Education in Ohio for 19 years. I am looking forward to a fabulous school year!
Makenna Klanot is joining our Yellow Hall team. She got a head start by teaching in our Summer Camp program. Welcome Makenna!
Hello, my name is Makenna Klanot and I am beyond excited to be joining the McCarthy Teszler team! I am going into my sixth year of teaching, having taught at Meeting Street, Mary H. Wright and multiple school throughout London. I have recently just moved back from England where I was obtaining a master's degree in education policy and society from King’s College of London. Education equity is a huge passion of mine and hope to use my teaching experiences and policy knowledge to become a policy analyst on Capitol Hill one day. I am thrilled to be back in district 7 and cannot wait to learn and grow with everyone this year while following my passion for teaching special needs students.
Hello, my name is Makenna Klanot and I am beyond excited to be joining the McCarthy Teszler team! I am going into my sixth year of teaching, having taught at Meeting Street, Mary H. Wright and multiple school throughout London. I have recently just moved back from England where I was obtaining a master's degree in education policy and society from King’s College of London. Education equity is a huge passion of mine and hope to use my teaching experiences and policy knowledge to become a policy analyst on Capitol Hill one day. I am thrilled to be back in district 7 and cannot wait to learn and grow with everyone this year while following my passion for teaching special needs students.
