The halls of the new HMMS will remain empty for a short while longer. Union County Middle School students will begin school at the old Horace Maynard Middle School with a staggered schedule on August 10, 2026. The expected date for students to attend the new HMMS will be on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

Director Greg Clay noted several areas where the furniture and equipment was still being installed in a tour by board and commission members on July 16. The cafeteria equipment as well as many of the classroom tables, chairs, and desks were a work in progress. In addition, the main boulevard hallway still had a few areas of unfinished construction. On the outside, water drainage issues persist behind the school.

During the recent gully washers, it was apparent that the drainage issue was not fixed when mud from the back bank slid across the exit lane behind the school. No water entered the school. However, an extensive and expensive plan will most likely be needed to fix the issue. The state fire marshal will not approve the building for student use until the issue is fixed.

Teachers and employees will be able to begin moving instructional material and supplies next week. Besides the classrooms, the gymnasium and all of the classrooms are now complete. The cafeteria and kitchen have been outfitted with multiple seating arrangements and state of the art equipment. The gym is outfitted like many area high schools. Administrative spaces are big enough for a variety of office equipment and conference tables. Classrooms for academic, STEM, CTE, and special education are awaiting the inquisitive, energetic students. The Latham Corner, the school store, gives a nod to the original property owners as well as providing a hands on experience for several students, especially those in the special needs classroom.

In addition to the opening of the new middle school, the Union County Board of Education is already working on plans for the old middle school that includes some major upgrades in the physical building as well as the instruction.

As school opens, please, remember to use caution, and no cell phone use is allowed inside school zones.