'A new day'

SANTEE – Lake Marion Middle School is off cially open for the school year. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Thursday morning to kick off the opening. "It's a new day for the children of Orangeburg County School District," school board Chairman Ruby Edwards said.

"It's another great day in Orangeburg County and any time we're doing what's good for children, it's a great day. At the Orangeburg County School District, we always do what's best for our children," she said. LMMS Principal Dr.

Felisha Williams said, "Today marks a significant milestone in our community to inaugurate a place where young minds will be nurtured, inspired and prepared for a bright future." "This facility stands as a testament to our commitment to education and to the success of our students," she said. Williams expressed appreciation to everyone who contributed, "to make this dream a reality.

" LMMS is located on the campus of Lake Marion High School, at 3656 Tee Vee Road, just outside of Santee. It serves about 500 students from Holly Hill-Roberts Middle and Elloree Middle schools. Both Holly Hill-Roberts and Elloree Middle are closed.

The newly constructed, 20,500-square-foot wing was added next to the pre existing 24,500-square-foot school building for a total space of 45,000 square feet. The A-wing of the high school is also being used for LMMS. The small gym at LMHS will be used by LMMS.

LMMS's administrative offices are located in the newly opened building. The expansion, made possible throu.