District

The Seamless Summer Meal Program returns for Summer 2025! The ACPSD Child Nutrition Program will be offering nutritious meals at no cost for children aged 18 and under, as well as for individuals with disabilities up to age 21. Meals will be served Monday through Thursday from June 2 to June 26, 2025. See flyer for more details!

3 days ago, Aiken County Public School District

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who joined us at Tailgate Tavern for Children’s Place’s 30th Annual Celebrity Waiter Night. Your generous tips—and incredible spirit—helped support a meaningful cause and made the evening one to remember. 🎉💛 We’re especially proud of The Brainy Bunch—our STARS of Public Education—who traded classrooms and offices for aprons to serve as this year’s Celebrity Waiters: 🍽️ Christie Palladino, District Teacher of the Year (Aiken County Career and Technology Center) 🍽️ Theresa Reeves, First Year Teacher of the Year (Byrd Elementary) 🍽️ Rashad Roland, Professional Staff Member of the Year (Transportation) 🍽️ Ni’Jae Jerry, GEM of the Year (Busbee Elementary) 🍽️ Micki Dove, District Level Administrator of the Year Honor Court Member (Instruction) Thanks for showing up and tipping big for a great cause! All tips and raffle ticket sales go directly to supporting the vital work of Children’s Place. #CelebrityWaiterNight #STARSofPublicEducation #STARSACPSD #TeamACPSD #ACPSDgivesback

4 days ago, Aiken County Public School District

5 Adults Standing in a Restaurant with Black Shirts on.

Seven Adults listening to instructions in a circle.

Join The Brainy Bunch, comprised of our District’s STARS of Public Education, for dinner tonight at Tailgate Tavern during Children’s Place’s 30th Annual Celebrity Waiter Night. Serving as Celebrity Waiters are our District’s Teacher of the Year Christie Palladino (Aiken County Career and Technology Center), First Year Teacher of the Year Theresa Reeves (Byrd Elementary), Professional Staff Member of the Year Rashad Roland (Transportation), GEM (Classified Staff Member) of the Year Ni’Jae Jerry (Busbee Elementary), and District Level Administrator of the Year Honor Court Member Micki Dove (Instruction). Reservations and generous tips (with 100% of tips going to Children’s Place) are encouraged: (803) 226-0909.

6 days ago, Aiken County Public School District

30th Anniversary Celebrity Waiter Night, Monday, May 19.

Shining a Spotlight on Staff! Your dedication, resilience, and heart have made this school year one to remember. As we head into the final stretch, know that your hard work is seen and deeply appreciated. Let’s finish strong—together! If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine #SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates

7 days ago, Human Resources

Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, May 18, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum

Sarah Coker Special Programs Physical Therapist Sarah goes above and beyond for the students in ACPSD!!! She is so encouraging to the teachers she supports and helps to problem-solve difficult situations. Sarah even joins problem-solving meetings on her day off!! :) It is truly a joy to watch her work and I learn from her each time I have the opportunity to collaborate with her. Thank you, Sarah! Lauren Enter

Stacy Mayson Byrd Elementary 1st Grade Teacher I honestly don’t have enough words to express how grateful I am for Stacy Mayson. You’re not just an incredible team lead; you’re a true friend, a constant support, and a light on the tough days. Thank you for always answering my endless questions, believing in me, and inspiring me with your strength, kindness, and passion. You are truly one of a kind, and I’m so lucky to have you in my corner. Breanna Norris

Arian Mozone Transportation Department Bus Driver Shoutout to Arian Mozone, a recent Midland Valley graduate and now one of our dedicated school bus drivers! Since starting, Mr. Mozone has gone above and beyond—covering extra routes, athletic trips, and helping wherever needed. Drivers like Arian play a vital role in ensuring our students get where they need to be to succeed. Thank you, Mr. Mozone, for your hard work and Mustang pride! Jeremiah Partlow

Liz McClearen Belvedere Elementary 4K Teacher Liz, you are a loving and caring teacher, and you can see in the kids. I've enjoyed working on your team the last two years and will miss working with you next year when you go to 3rd grade. Thank you for being there and being a big help to me when I have had some health issues come up and helping me through it. Thank you for your concern and caring. Cheryl May

Kelia Andrews Warrenville Elementary School 4th Grade Teacher Kelia truly puts so much love and effort into her kids and career every day. She makes such an impact at our school and has worked incredibly hard to help start a new program at our school. One of the best! Caroline DiDio

Michelle Schlachter North Augusta Middle School Science Teacher You did such an amazing job AGAIN with the Spring Fling! You did awesome with planning and decorating for the dance! The students had so much fun! Thanks for making lasting memories for our students! Miss Abney (NAMS Secretary)

Sara Boyso Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary 4K Instructional Aide Mrs. Boyso is simply the best!! Her care for students extends beyond the classroom. Her passion for what she does is evident through her actions and she is a true blessing to my son and me. A grateful mama

🎉 Happy SLP Day! 🗣️💬Today we proudly celebrate our phenomenal school-based Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) who support our students with speech, language, and feeding needs every single day. SLPs are behind so many powerful moments in our schools—helping students find their voice, communicate with confidence, and eat safely. Their work touches lives in ways that often go unseen, but never unnoticed. 💙 To all of our dedicated SLPs across ACPSD: THANK YOU. Your expertise, patience, and care make an incredible impact on our students’ success and well-being. #SLPDay #ThankYouSLPs #SpeechLanguagePathology #SLPAppreciation #EveryStudentEveryVoice

7 days ago, Department of Special Programs

Aiken County Public School District, May 13 BOARD MEETING - The Board of Education will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, beginning at 6:00 p.m.  Please visit https://www.acpsd.net/page/board-meeting-livestream to view the meeting agenda and access the livestream when the meeting begins. Board Meetings are open to the public, although seating is limited. Our School Board Representatives may be contacted for any questions from our community stakeholders. Their contact information is available from that link as well.

12 days ago, Aiken County Public School District

Happy Mother’s Day! Together, we make a difference. We are grateful for every ACPSD staff member who inspires and uplifts our students and community. Today, we give special thanks to the mothers on our team. You lead with compassion, balance countless roles, and model resilience for us all. Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom and workplace. If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine #SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates

14 days ago, Human Resources

Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, May 11, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum

Willie Rogers Transportation Department Special Education Bus Driver Mr. Rogers has a wonderful relationship with his students, parents, and co-workers. His students adore him and have great respect for him. As a dedicated team player, he always steps up to lend a hand. When asked for help, he confidently says, "Send me the information; I’ve got it. We've got to get these children home," never expressing a complaint. He is also a retired military veteran, and we’re so grateful for his service, both in the past and today! Special Education Transportation Department

Elizabeth McCarty Redcliffe Elementary Special Education Clerk Beth is an amazing Special Education Clerk! She goes above an beyond to ensure that meetings are set up without conflicts. She also ensures all of our paperwork is submitted to the district office in a timely manner. She is a team player and will assist whenever and wherever she can. Beth is, by far, the best! Melanie Walling

Wanda Courtney Materials Center Instructional Materials Center Clerk Wanda is such a blessing! She creates many items for our Senior Scholar Banquet, Jr Scholar Event and Graduation every school year, and does a phenomenal job! I especially appreciate her encouragement and positive attitude. She reminds me that we are not going to stress, because it all works out. I appreciate all you do to make these events special for our students, you are the best! Paula Ehlers

Brittany Sturkie District Office Receptionist Brittany has been the receptionist at the district office for 6 months. She has done a fabulous job in such a short time. The many calls and visitors that her role encounters could be overwhelming, but she handles it with grace. She is friendly and respectful with everyone. Great job Brittany! We are happy to have you at the district office.

Jennifer Minolfo Millbrook Elementary 4th Grade Teacher As a partner teacher, Jennifer balances her co-teacher's wild ideas perfectly, always responding with a smile and helping to make even the silliest plans work. Her true talent is in reigniting students' love for reading. She turns students who don't want to read into book lovers with fun lessons and her real passion for stories. Whether it's a special reading day outside or a surprise reading activity with treats, Jennifer brings joy back into reading for all her students! April Layfield

Shannon Boatwright Midland Valley High School Special Education Teacher Congratulations to Mrs. Boatwright on completing her teaching degree while working as a dual employee—driving a school bus and serving as a Special Education Aide. Her willingness to sub on any route and step in wherever needed shows her incredible dedication and flexibility. Thank you, Mrs. Boatwright, for helping our students get where they need to be to grow and succeed! Jeremiah Partlow

Pamela Chestnut Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary 4th Grade Teacher Mrs. Chestnut has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting the growth of our 4th grade math students. Her dedication and enthusiasm for student success in mathematics are truly commendable. We sincerely appreciate her hard work and contributions.

AMP THE APPRECIATION 2025 We had an incredible time celebrating our amazing teachers and staff at AMP THE APPRECIATION last Friday, May 2! This annual downtown Aiken celebration was bursting with memorable performances, heartwarming moments, and plenty of fun as we came together to connect and celebrate our incredible ACPSD employees! Our talented student performers delivered outstanding performances, including East Aiken School of the Arts in a Musical, the Chukker Creek Champion Singers, the Young Musicians Academy Strings Clubs from Chukker Creek and Redcliffe Elementary, and the North Augusta High School Symphonic Orchestra. 🎤 🎻 ACPSD educators and musicians Robb Underwood and Mark Rich rocked the stage with their band, Savannah Sunday. Talk about TRUE EDUCATOR ROCKSTARS! 🎸 Our employees and substitutes enjoyed “Downtown Dollars” to spend at participating businesses that generously offered Teacher & Employee discounts to stretch those dollars even further. 💵 A sneak peek of the 2025 Fine Arts Festival was on display at the Aiken Center for the Arts, showcasing incredible student art from every school in the district. 🎨 AMP THE APPRECIATION was the perfect way to launch a week of celebration, and as we wrap up Teacher Appreciation Week, we extend a huge THANK YOU to our dedicated teachers and staff. Your passion, creativity, and commitment inspire us all. 💚💛 Check out some of our favorite pics from the event, and keep posting your photos and videos! The winner of the #acpsdAMP25 contest (for the most spirited photo or video) will be announced early next week. Stay tuned! 📸 #ACPSDcelebrates #acpsdAMP25 #TeacherAppreciationWeek

15 days ago, Aiken County Public Schools

Banner welcoming employees to The Alley in Downtown Aiken that reads AMP THE APPRECIATION.

Board Member Brian Silas handing out Downtown Dollars to an employee.

East Aiken School of the Arts students perform a musical on the stairs in downtown Aiken.

The band Savannah Sunday rocks the stage at AMP THE APPRECIATION.

Two ACPSD employees smiling and posing with sunglasses and frisbees.

Aiken County Public Schools table with swag.

Three ACPSD employees posing for a photo in The Alley during AMP THE APPRECIATION.

Dr. Sal Minolfo introducing the NAHS Orchestra surrounded by students with strings instruments ready to play.

The crowd waves light up wands as the band plays in downtown Aiken.

Banner that reads Thank you ACPSD Teachers and Staff hanging in the The Alley.

CELEBRATING NATIONAL SCHOOL COMMUNICATORS DAY Today, we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible work of our school Communications Liaisons – the storytellers who bring our schools to life and showcase all the exceptional things happening across ACPSD. From capturing special moments through photos and celebrating student and staff achievements to managing website updates and keeping school communities connected through social media – their efforts amplify the voices of those who make our district so special. Their dedication to sharing these stories with care, creativity, and purpose is invaluable, and we’re grateful for their commitment to keeping our community informed and engaged. We also appreciate their dedication to continuous learning and their focus on making digital information accessible to all. Thank you, school Communications Liaisons, for your passion, hard work, and for being such a vital part of our team. Happy School Communicators Day! #NationalSchoolCommunicatorsDay #ACPSDcelebrates

15 days ago, Aiken County Public Schools

NSPRA Big Thanks for the Big Impact You make Every Day. Happy School Communicators Day.

On May 7th, we celebrate National Interpreter Day—a time to recognize the incredible contributions of ASL and foreign language interpreters in our schools. Whether supporting students in the classroom, helping families communicate at meetings, or ensuring access for all, interpreters are vital partners in education. Thank you for all you do! #NationalInterpreterDay #ThankYouInterpreters #ASLInterpreter #ForeignLanguageInterpreter #LanguageAccess #InclusionInEducation

18 days ago, Department of Special Programs

CELEBRATING NATIONAL SCHOOL NURSE DAY | MAY 7 Today, we honor the compassionate caregivers who help keep Aiken County Public Schools safe, healthy, and thriving, our amazing school nurses! From tending to daily bumps and scrapes to managing chronic health conditions and supporting mental wellness, these dedicated professionals are a vital part of our school communities. School nurses are on the front lines of student health, providing care, promoting wellness, and helping students stay in school and ready to learn. Their expertise, empathy, and quick thinking make a lasting impact every single day. Thank you to our school nurses for being a steady hand, a listening ear, and a source of comfort for students, staff, and families. We appreciate you! Happy National School Nurse Day! 💙 #SchoolNurseDay #ACPSDcelebrates #ThankYouNurses

18 days ago, Aiken County Public School District

School Nurse Day May 7, 2025, with images of hearts and band aids

Aiken High School’s Educators Rising would like to invite you and your children to enjoy “A Royal Family Ball” in the Aiken High School cafeteria. This event is for families with young children to experience a “prom-like” event, where they get to dress up in fancy clothes, dance to fun music, eat delicious snacks, make crowns, decorate “chalices,” enjoy other activities, and take pictures of the memories! Tickets are available on GoFan.com see the link below and QR Code in the picture. Costs are $5.00 for each child ages 3-years-old to 12-years-old (children 2 + under are free). All children must be accompanied by an adult family member (18-years-old and up). Costs for adult tickets are $10.00. If you have any questions, please email Mrs. Christa Franklin (cfranklin2@acpsd.net), the Educators Rising adviser and Early Childhood Education Instructor. bit.ly/royal-family-ball

18 days ago, Aiken County Public Schools

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! This week, we celebrate YOU— the educators whose passion, care, and commitment help students grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. In this special video message, Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy shares his heartfelt thanks for all that you do. A message for our ACPSD teachers: https://youtu.be/CYDTqxyu9IA #TeacherAppreciationWeek #ACPSDcelebrates

19 days ago, Aiken County Public Schools

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! From all of us at Aiken County Public Schools, we extend our deepest gratitude to the exceptional educators who shape minds, build futures, and go above and beyond every day. Your dedication, heart, and impact reach far beyond the classroom—and we are proud to stand with you in our shared mission to empower every student. Thank you for being the difference. If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine

21 days ago, Human Resources

Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, May 4, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum

Allison Bennett Aiken Intermediate School Social Studies Teacher Mrs. Bennett is one of the best teachers I have ever had the pleasure of working with. She goes above and beyond the call of duty for both her students and fellow teachers. Mrs. Bennett truly puts her heart and soul into what she does. She truly makes learning fun. As a teacher, even I want to be in Mrs. Bennett's class, because she makes learning come alive!

Mallory Walp East Aiken School of the Arts 1st Grade Teacher Congratulations to Mrs. Mallory Walp, who has been named the USCA Outstanding Student in M.Ed. Educational Leadership! Mrs. Walp's research into increasing fluency for 1st graders indicates that all students can improve reading fluency with explicit, direct instruction. She is an amazing teacher who creates a love of learning for all her students, and a valued faculty member at East Aiken School of the Arts. Dr. Kim Entzminger

Jenna Faircloth Paul Knox Middle Special Education Teacher Ms. Faircloth goes above and beyond to make sure each of her students feels seen and heard!

Alix Williams Clearwater Elementary Art Teacher Shout out to you for always seeing the best in our students. You help them believe in their artistic abilities even when they don’t see it in themselves. They shine, they try, they fall, and they grow. And you keep on believing in them every step of the way! Thank you for that!

Jean Smith Midland Valley High School Agriculture Education Teacher Ms. Smith works so hard she is so talented in everything she does. Her students think the world of her. Since she came to MVHS the program has grown so much. MV is blessed to have her, and it is a perfect fit because of our school colors, she loves orange.

Kerri Dexter Wagener-Salley High School Special Education Teacher This teacher is not afraid to have tough conversations with people in their classroom. She is always holding people accountable for their actions and making us think as if we were responsible adults. She also loves unconditionally and wants the best for us.

Nichole Mack Silver Bluff High School Math Teacher A huge appreciation exists for Nicole Mack, a phenomenal math teacher at Silver Bluff High School who goes beyond equations and formulas to make a lasting impact! Her dedication to fostering mutual respect with colleagues and students and making learning relevant with real world connections truly helps students within ACPSD to grow—not just as learners, but as critical thinkers and productive citizens. Her passion and commitment make a difference every day! Dr. T. Latrece Quattlebaum

CELEBRATING SCHOOL LUNCH HERO DAY | MAY 2 Today, we celebrate the real-life heroes who fuel Aiken County Public Schools—our incredible Child Nutrition Program team! Each day, these dedicated professionals prepare and serve thousands of nutritious meals, greet students with a smile, and help create a warm, welcoming environment in our cafeterias. Their hard work ensures that students are nourished and ready to learn—and that no child goes without a healthy meal. Whether behind the serving line, planning menus, or managing operations, our Child Nutrition Program team members make a difference—every tray, every day. Happy School Lunch Hero Day! #SchoolLunchHeroDay #ACPSDcelebrates

23 days ago, Aiken County Public Schools

CELEBRATING NATIONAL SCHOOL PRINCIPAL DAY | MAY 1 Today we celebrate the incredible leaders at the heart of our schools—our principals. National School Principal Day is a time to recognize the dedication, vision, and tireless commitment of our school leaders who guide, support, and inspire students, staff, and school communities across Aiken County. Our principals wear many hats—they are instructional leaders, student champions, mentors to staff, and trusted voices in the community. Their leadership helps create safe, supportive, and successful learning environments where students can thrive. To all of our Aiken County Public Schools principals: thank you for your leadership, your heart for students, and the countless ways you make a difference every single day. #NationalSchoolPrincipalDay #ACPSDcelebrates

24 days ago, Aiken County Public Schools

Celebrating Our School Heroes! From teachers to bus drivers, principals to custodians, librarians to nutrition staff, and everyone in between—you are the heart of our schools. Your dedication, passion, and hard work make a lasting difference in the lives of our students every single day. Thank you for all you do to create a community where students can learn, grow, and thrive. #SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates

28 days ago, Human Resources

Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, April 27, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum

Tami Shaffer South Aiken High School Assistant Principal A big shout out to Mrs. Shaffer for your exceptional organization and leadership during testing! Your meticulous planning and support made sure everything ran smoothly, minimizing stress for the entire school. You made a challenging time much more manageable for everyone involved. Thank you for keeping things on track and ensuring the process was as stress-free as possible! Liza Hyde

Tamara Stauffer Oakwood-Windsor Elementary Aide Shoutout to an incredible aide who gives her all every single day! Her patience, kindness, and dedication make a world of difference in the classroom. She goes above and beyond to support both students and teachers, ensuring everyone feels encouraged and capable. The impact she has may not always be seen, but it’s always felt. The world needs more educators like her!

Jenny Hill Child Nutrition Program Child Nutrition Program Field Supervisor Jenny is always so helpful and respectful. She genuinely cares for the staff and coworkers. She is a joy to be around.

Lori Secrist East Aiken School of the Arts Physical Education Ms. Secrist is simply AMAZING! She is an outstanding physical education teacher who puts her whole heart into doing what is best for children! Ms. Secrist did an AWESOME job planning S.P.A.R.K. Day, our arts integration field day! It was a fun, exciting day filled with creativity, movement, laughter, fitness, and lots of smiles! Ms. Secrist's hard work did not go unnoticed & is greatly appreciated! Thank you for all you do, Ms. Secrist! We love & appreciate you to the moon & back!

Kimberly Herring Special Programs Itinerant Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Ms. Kimberly Herring is an incredible teacher-mentor. She is someone who is not only guided with wisdom but led with heart. Her resourcefulness, generosity and commitment to our shared mission continue to inspire me every day. She goes above and beyond, sharing not just her time and resources, but her passion and purpose. Anne Rose Capangpangan

Candi Smith Cyril B. Busbee Elementary Student Information Clerk Ms. Candi Smith, Attendance Clerk at Busbee Elementary, is always on top of her foster care game! Her dedication to ensuring the swift enrollment and proper documentation of students experiencing foster care is commendable. I can always count on her to send over necessary documentation, which allows me, as the Foster Care Liaison, to meet state requirements, collaborate with other districts, and provide timely information to Dasyure efficiency and dedication do not go unnoticed. Alicia K. Moody- Foster Care Liaison

Brandon Harley Educational Technology Network Technician Educational Technology Thank you so very much for all that you do for everyone! You never do just a good job when you can do a great one. Thank you for the time and effort you put into everything you do! Miss Abney

CELEBRATING ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS DAY | APRIL 23 Today we celebrate the amazing administrative professionals who play such an important role within Aiken County Public Schools! From the friendly voices who answer the phones to the experts who keep our schools and offices organized and on track, these dedicated team members are the heart of our operations. They handle countless tasks behind the scenes with professionalism, patience, and precision, supporting our students, staff, and families every step of the way. Thank you for your hard work, your attention to detail, and your unwavering commitment to excellence. ACPSD is able to thrive and serve its mission because of the essential role you play each day. #ACPSDcelebrates #AdministrativeProfessionalsDay

about 1 month ago, Aiken County Public Schools

Aiken County Public School District, April 22 BOARD MEETING - The Board of Education will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, beginning at 6:00 p.m.  Please visit https://www.acpsd.net/page/board-meeting-livestream to view the meeting agenda and access the livestream when the meeting begins. Board Meetings are open to the public, although seating is limited. Our School Board Representatives may be contacted for any questions from our community stakeholders. Their contact information is available from that link as well.

about 1 month ago, Aiken County Public Schools

SCHOOL BUS DRIVER APPRECIATION DAY | TUESDAY, APRIL 22 Today, we recognize and celebrate the dedicated bus drivers and transportation staff of Aiken County Public Schools who help keep our students moving—safely, reliably, and with care. From early morning routes to afternoon drop-offs, field trips, and after-school activities, our bus drivers go above and beyond to ensure students arrive ready to learn and return home safely. Their friendly greetings, watchful eyes, and calm presence make a meaningful impact in the daily lives of our students and families. To all of our bus drivers, monitors, and transportation team members—thank you for the vital role you play in supporting our schools and students. You help make every school day possible. #ACPSDcelebrates #SchoolBusDriverAppreciationDay

about 1 month ago, Aiken County Public Schools

Thank you school bus drivers! School Bus Driver Appreciation Day.