ROCK HILL, S.C. — Rock Hill Schools will officially kick off the 2026–2027 school year with its annual Back-to-School Pep Rally on Wednesday, July 29, celebrating educators and staff under this year’s theme, “Denim & Diamonds.”
The annual district tradition brings together employees from every school and department to celebrate the beginning of a new school year, recognize outstanding staff members, and reaffirm a shared commitment to student success.
The event will be held in the F Gym at Northwestern High School, located at 2503 W. Main Street, Rock Hill, SC 29732. Doors open at 1:30 p.m., and the program begins promptly at 2:00 p.m.
The celebration will feature an energetic welcome from the cheerleaders and marching bands of Northwestern High School, Rock Hill High School, and South Pointe High School, followed by recognition of each school’s “Of the Year” honorees, celebrating excellence across the district. The program will also include the announcement of the 2026–2027 Teacher of the Year, who will receive a new vehicle courtesy of Honda Cars of Rock Hill, continuing the dealership’s longstanding partnership in recognizing excellence in education.
Superintendent Dr. Deborah Elder will deliver the keynote address, encouraging employees to raise the bar and shine bright as they prepare to welcome students back for another successful school year.
“The Back-to-School Pep Rally is one of our most meaningful traditions,” said Dr. Elder. “It is an opportunity to celebrate the incredible people who make Rock Hill Schools exceptional and to unite around our shared purpose of providing every student with an outstanding educational experience. Together, we will continue raising the bar and ensuring every child has the opportunity to shine.”
Event Details
Rock Hill Schools Back-to-School Pep Rally
Theme: Denim & Diamonds
Date: Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Doors Open: 1:30 p.m.
Program Begins: 2:00 p.m.
Location: Northwestern High School – F Gym 2503 W. Main Street Rock Hill, SC 29732
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Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
