05/24/2026
Good Afternoon Chiefs,
This is Dr. Hembree from McCormick County School District with important updates regarding the fire at McCormick High School, as well as a few updates regarding the end of the school year.
First and foremost, we are so thankful to the swift response of multiple firefighter units that responded to the fire at McCormick High School Friday evening into Saturday morning. Over 75 firefighters across the state worked to contain and eventually put out the fire that originated in the roof of the high school gym. The fire is believed to have started from a strike of lightning. We are extremely grateful that no one was hurt or injured, and we have much to be thankful for.
A recovery team, assigned to us through our insurance company, arrived on site on Saturday afternoon to survey damage, and have started the clean up and recovery process. While it will take a few days to completely assess the level of damages, we do know the damage is substantial across pockets of our campus. Air quality and water damage are currently being assessed.
Due to these reasons, at this time, we do not think it will be possible for students to return to school for the last few days of the school year. If something should change, we will let you know as soon as possible. We will schedule a day for students to pick up any end-of-year items or personal items from their classrooms, as well as to turn in any items.
Additionally, due to the damage in both the MMS and MHS gym, the McCormick High School graduation will be moved to a different location. The ceremony is still expected to take place at 10 am on Friday, May 29th. We are expecting to be able to finalize location details by Tuesday afternoon, and will share these details with you as soon as possible.
Thank you in advance for your understanding and support. As always, the safety of our students and staff is our number one priority.
We will be back in touch to share any updates as they become available.
We hope you continue to enjoy your weekend, and please stay safe.
With Gratitude,
Dr. Hembree
MCSD Superintendent
