As we transition from summer recess to a new academic year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the many accomplishments of 2025–2026. It was a year of meaningful progress across Aiken County Public School District, made possible by the dedication of our students, teachers, staff, administrators, families, and community partners.
Together, we celebrated remarkable achievements. Seven of our schools earned an Excellent state report card rating, five schools received Palmetto Gold or Silver recognition, and Aiken Scholars Academy was named a National Blue Ribbon School. We are also honored to be the home of the 2027 South Carolina Teacher of the Year, Dr. Christie Palladino of the Aiken County Career and Technology Center. Nearly half of our schools, 45 percent, improved by an entire performance category on the state report cards released in November 2025, reflecting the impact of our collective commitment to student success.
Our students continued to inspire us through their accomplishments both inside and outside the classroom. The Class of 2026 earned more than $74 million in scholarship offers while demonstrating the academic achievement, leadership, and determination that define our district.
Every milestone reached this year is a direct result of the passion, hard work, and unwavering commitment of our educators, support staff, administrators, students, families, and our supportive community. Thank you for investing in our children each day and for helping create opportunities that prepare them for success in school and beyond.
We have much to celebrate, and even more to look forward to. I am excited to see what we will accomplish together during the 2026–2027 school year as we continue building a culture of excellence for every student.
— Dr. Corey Murphy, Superintendent