BUCHANAN COUNTY — Buchanan County Public Schools opened the 2026-27 academic year Friday, Aug. 21, marking the beginning of a new chapter for students, educators and families across the county.
The first day was especially historic at Southern Gap High School, where students from across Buchanan County entered the doors for the first time. The new school brings together the former Council, Grundy, Hurley and Twin Valley high school communities under one roof.
Southern Gap, home of the Eagles, now serves as Buchanan County’s only high school and houses students in grades eight through 12.
“Today was a really exciting and memorable first day at Southern Gap High School,” Principal Mark Cooper said. “There was a lot of excitement among the students, teachers, staff, and families as we opened the doors to our new school. It was wonderful to see everyone coming together, getting familiar with the new building, and starting this new chapter as a school community. Overall, it was a great first day, and we’re looking forward to everything the future holds at Southern Gap High School.”
The transition represents a major change for students who previously attended one of the county’s four high schools. Former rivals are now classmates and teammates as they begin building a shared identity as Southern Gap Eagles.
Elementary and middle school students will continue attending schools in their respective communities. Those schools are Riverview Elementary/Middle School, Council Elementary/Middle School, Tommy P. Justus Elementary/Middle School and Twin Valley Elementary/Middle School.
The former Hurley Elementary/Middle School has been renamed Tommy P. Justus Elementary/Middle School in honor of the late Tommy P. Justus, who served Buchanan County Public Schools for many years, including as superintendent.
The opening of Southern Gap also brought significant changes to the school division’s transportation plan. Southern Gap operates from 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., while the county’s elementary and middle schools operate from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
A long line of vehicles formed along Eagle Drive leading into Southern Gap on the first morning as students, families, faculty and staff adjusted to the new traffic pattern from state Route 83.
The Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office increased its presence along Lovers Gap Road and Southern Gap Road to help direct traffic and monitor the area as motorists became familiar with the new school entrance and traffic flow.
Some delays were expected during the opening days as families, bus drivers and school employees adjusted to new routes and procedures. School officials and law enforcement are asking motorists traveling through the area to remain patient, allow additional travel time and use caution around school buses and increased traffic.
Although the first day brought adjustments, it also represented a milestone years in the making. Students from communities throughout Buchanan County walked into a new building Friday and began creating the traditions that will shape Southern Gap High School for generations to come.
