Marion County Public Schools are preparing to welcome a projected 46,697 students across 54 traditional schools and five charter schools on the first day of classes Monday, with 120 new teachers, 15 new principals, and a new high school celebrating its grand opening.
The start of the new school year marks a major expansion for the district with the grand opening of South Marion High School near Marion Oaks.
Built on 115 acres in an area defined by rapid population growth, the $180-plus million facility opens its doors as the home of the Bears with an initial capacity of 2,011 students. Construction is also underway on a third-floor buildout that will expand total capacity to 2,711 students upon completion…