I am a resident of James Island, and I've witnessed firsthand the changes our community has experienced over the years. This island isn't just a piece of land; it's our home, a place of comfort and community. However, with the growing population, there's a clear need for educational infrastructure that serves not only the current demands but also anticipates future growth. I am grateful for CCSD and their willingness to build two early childhood center at JIES & SPES in the near future. I believe we need more room for our growing adolescent population on James Island. Camp Road Middle School has excellent leadership and teachers, but they have no spare classroom and classes have between 21-34 students. We need to think about how we are using the spaces that are owned by CCSD. The old James Island Middle School presents a unique opportunity to address these challenges—it's time we seize it and transform this landmark into a hub of knowledge and creativity.

The proposal is to rebuild the old James Island Middle School as a dedicated facility for 6th-grade students, thus easing the transition of students from elementary to middle school. In doing so, we can create a nurturing environment tailored to meet the educational and emotional needs of young adolescents. The curriculum in this specialized setting could offer exploratory learning experiences, readiness for advanced subjects, and a cultivation of interpersonal skills crucial for this age.

Moreover, envision this rebuilt facility to include a state-of-the-art performance arts space, that all island elementary schools can access as well. Such a resource would not only enrich the lives of our students by fostering their creative abilities but also serve as a cultural center for James Island. Imagine school plays, community theater performances, concerts, and art exhibitions being held right here, bringing the community together and nurturing future artists, musicians, and performers. CCSD would benefit financially as well, given the limited performance spaces on James Island. 

We are at the beginning of this conversation, noting that the 6th grade space was recently amplified in the survey CCSD requested of residents in the spring of 2025. Ideally, this petition will help us take this conversation to the next step.

Join me in making this vision a reality. Sign the petition to support rebuilding the old James Island Middle School, emphasizing 6th-grade education and a premier performance arts space. Let’s create opportunities for our youth that resonate for generations to come. We are recommending the building to be named for our present CCSD Superintendent who is a former beloved teacher and leader on JI. “Anita Huggins Secondary School”

Thank you,

Jamie Meissner

SC SIC Advocate of the Year 2025

Parent to 3 CCSD Students