Aiken County Public School District Superintendent Dr. Murphy hosted the first Student and Parent Superintendent Advisory Council (SAC) meetings of the school year at the District Office October 21 and 22, 2025. These meetings brought together elementary, middle, and high school students, along with parents, selected to represent their school and invited them to engage in meaningful conversations about school experiences and district priorities.
Elementary students shared their thoughts on topics including school safety, communications, teaching and learning, school climate and culture, playground improvements, specials, and i-Ready Pathways. A consistent theme across the group was a strong sense of safety and support within their school environments and appreciation for having a voice in decisions that impact their learning.
Middle and high school students focused their discussions on encouraging consistent use of student ID badges, the impact of the state-wide cell phone ban, high school construction and renovations, district communication, and strategies for maintaining safe and welcoming campuses. High Schoolers offered feedback on the block schedule and shared suggestions to increase hands-on learning instructional strategies, and the need for more movement and breaks during longer class periods.
Parents were invited to weigh in on a range of topics, including district leadership, student safety, and communication practices. A key area of interest was expanding learning opportunities beyond traditional academics. Parents recommended the development of life skills courses focused on financial literacy, resume writing, communication, peer mediation, and conflict resolution, as well as expanded access to robotics, 3D printing, and drone technology.
Parent concerns were also raised about challenges with PTO involvement, particularly at the middle and high school levels, limited fundraising options, and a growing reliance on screen-based instruction versus direct teacher engagement. Several parents noted issues with inconsistent grade updates in PowerSchool, making it difficult to track student progress. Traffic and safety concerns near certain school campuses were also discussed, and the district shared plans for upcoming traffic studies in partnership with local agencies.
Superintendent Murphy closed the meetings by expressing his gratitude for the candid and constructive input shared by both students and parents. “We need your voices.” The district remains committed to listening, learning, and taking meaningful action based on the perspectives shared during these important conversations.
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