Wagener‑Salley High School, Aiken County Public Schools

Wagener‑Salley High School’s 1930s building no longer served the needs of students or reflected the spirit of their rural culture. The school board and devoted local community were determined to find a solution that preserved their small-town legacy while embracing modern education.

A Community-Driven Vision for Rural Education and Workforce Readiness

Through a series of design workshops, the community shared stories, priorities, and vision to help guide the design. Permanent exhibits in the school also honor its legacy even as its building looks squarely to the future.

Your voices were heard… this is your community building… Your support got this building built.”

— Bill Taylor, SC House Representative / stated at the ribbon cutting

The result is a 155,000 SF facility that reflects Wagener‑Salley High School’s agricultural roots and academic aspirations. Two gyms support physical education programs and athletics. Also, a health clinic offers on-campus access to medical and dental care, addressing a rural need. Secure courtyards serve as dining areas and outdoor classrooms, encouraging social connection and collaboration.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is central to the campus and inspired by local industry. The school includes cosmetology and welding labs (one of just two SC high schools with on-site welding), a tractor range supporting agriculture curriculum, and cutting-edge networking and cybersecurity suites. Also, an adaptable classroom expands into a competition-grade shooting range for the ROTC program.

Wagener‑Salley’s Collaborative Process, From Data to Delivery

The project started with a comprehensive facilities assessment, enrollment and demographic studies, and projected space-use analysis. Every step incorporated rural stakeholder input through town halls, student tabling sessions, and interviews, informing design decisions from accessibility upgrades to preserving historic elements. Wagener‑Salley High School’s phased construction was planned with construction-management-at-risk partner HG Reynolds to meet ESSER funding timelines.

Learn More

Listen to Dr. Corey Murphy, Superintendent of Aiken County Public Schools on our K-12 podcast episode 18: Community Collaboration and Funding Transform School Construction for his advice on balancing differing opinions from community members, students, and school leaders; and how strategic use of ESSER funds made new their school construction possible.