New Schools FAQ

The expected opening date for Hayes Farm Elementary and Hoschton High School is August 2027. The expected opening date for Sell’s Mill Middle School is August 2028. Construction is slated to begin on the property in the summer and fall of 2025. Construction will commence on the high school first followed by Hayes Elementary and Sell’s Mill Middle School.

Naturally when building new schools, school lines become a topic of conversation. The challenge for JCSS right now is being able to predict where student numbers will be in August 2027. There is a significant amount of building taking place right now that will not conclude before August 2027. It is imperative to continue to observe development and school populations as we get closer to the school openings. We will keep you posted on an updated timeline for the redrawing of district attendance lines.

Yes. Jackson County School System leaders are committed to providing equitable experiences for our students in all schools, to include academic and extracurricular opportunities. With the addition of three new schools, we are committed to fostering top-tier instruction for all students while also having a robust offering of clubs, organizations and athletic teams.

The Empower College and Career Center will serve high school students from all three JCSS high schools. Our mission to provide students with ample learning opportunities remains center-focus and the Empower College and Career Center will continue to serve all high school students seeking advanced CTAE coursework. 

School colors and mascots of the schools in the surrounding five counties, to include city and private schools, have been examined to ensure our schools have a unique identity and brand. As part of the final decision making process, our system surveyed students who will attend Hoschton High School to seek input on a mascot. Once finalized, the mascot and school colors will be released to the public. 

Dr. Nicole Matthews was approved as the first-ever principal of Hayes Farm Elementary School in February 2026. Dr. Matthews, a current assistant principal at West Jackson Elementary School, will begin her new duties in January 2027. Melissa Gillespie was named the first-ever principal of Hoschton High School in March 2026. Gillespie, who currently serves as the principal of Jackson County High School, will begin her new duties in July 2026.

This property will feature five entrances and exits. Two will be accessible from Boone Road, two from Highway 332 and one from Sam Freeman Road.