Innovation, Art, and Athletics: That’s a Wrap on Spring Intersession!
From the field to the art studio, our students didn't just spend the week learning, they spent it leveling up. The halls of North Augusta Middle were buzzing with the intensity of LEGO Wars and the creativity of Art Enrichment, while Aiken and Redcliffe Elementary became hubs for future engineers at our Coding Camps sponsored by SRNS.
The creativity continued with Fine Arts Coordinator Kimberly Fontanez’s much anticipated Dance Camp held at Aiken High, and High Schoolers across the District mastered the delicate craft of Stained Glass with local artist Stacy O’Sullivan at Midland Valley High School!
The action didn't stop there; our athletic programs were not outshined! Coach Tice and the Aiken High School’s Girl’s Soccer team had an incredible week of skill building on the pitch while Kennedy Middle hosted an unmatched Sports Camp led by Coach Shuford and Coach Edwards. They even welcomed First Tee of Aiken to the camp to get our young athletes "Masters-ready" for next week!
Whether they were building robots or perfecting their swing, our students made every moment of this Spring Intersession count.
Check out this week's highlights on Facebook and YouTube!
We are committed to creating inclusive environments where every student feels seen, supported and valued. This month is dedicated to increasing understanding, promoting acceptance and supporting individuals with autism.
We would like to thank and recognize our dedicated and incredible Specialists, Teachers, and Aides, along with related service providers, who support students with autism across Aiken County everyday. Your hearts, care and dedication have a lasting impact on the lives of our students and families.
#ACPSDCelebrates #AutismAwarenessMonth #AikenCountyPublicSchools
Your generosity does not go unnoticed; we are so grateful for all that you do to help our students and staff succeed. Thank you for being a vital part of our school community!
#ACPSDCelebrates #NationalVolunteerMonth #AikenCountyPublicSchools
This month, we proudly recognize and celebrate the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of our military-connected students. These children serve too, navigating schools, new friendships, and long periods of separation with courage and grace.
In ACPSD we are committed to supporting every military child and ensuring they feel seen. Valued, and connected no matter where their journey takes them.
As part of our commitment, we have launched dedicated webpages designed specifically for military-connected students and their families. These pages provide easy access to resources, support services, transition tools, and important information to help every child thrive.
Explore the pages at www.acpsd.net/purple-star or on your school's webpage under the Our School tab.
We encourage you to join us by participating in the activities and dress up days throughout the month of April as we honor our military children and the important role they play in our community. Please visit our Celebrating Military Families & Children District webpage for details on how to participate.
This month there will also be a Hygiene Drive on from April 14 - April 25. Join our military-friendly Purple Star school district in donating basic personal hygiene items to help homeless veterans locally. For more info on the Hygiene Drive and other Purple Star School District initiatives, please contact our Military Community Liaison Sondra Thomas at SThomas@acpsd.net.
#ACPSDCelebrates #MonthOfMilitaryChild #PurpleStar #ACPSD
Our school libraries are more than just books. They're spaces where curiosity grows, creativity thrives, and students discover a lifelong love of learning. From research and digital literacy to storytelling and innovation, our librarians make it all possible. Join us this month in recognizing the incredible impact of our school libraries and the dedicated professional who bring them to life every day!
#ACPSDCelebrates #ACPSD #AikenCountyPublicSchools #SchoolLibraryMonth
Join us in celebrating our Employee of the Month, Allison Cook!
Allison serves as the Job Coach for Special Programs’ NEXT Bridge Transition to Employment program, supporting individuals ages 18–21 with disabilities as they build skills for competitive employment and independence.
Allison Cook is truly a tremendous asset to our program and our district. She embodies service, compassion, and excellence in all she does.
Thank you, Allison, for demonstrating excellence and making a difference every day—we appreciate you!
A break for ACPSD is almost here!
All students will be out of school tomorrow, Thursday, March 26, for a scheduled Professional Development Day, as well as Friday, March 27, which was originally designated as a weather make-up day. As this make-up day is not needed, school will not be in session for students this Friday.
The Spring Intersession for Intervention and Enrichment is scheduled to begin on Monday, March 30 and will conclude on Thursday, April 2. Students attending Spring Intersession will attend next week, Monday-Thursday; students not attending Intersession will not attend school. Please visit the Intersession information on our website at www.acpsd.net/intersession, which includes district- and community-sponsored opportunities.
Please note that Friday, April 3, is a designated District Holiday, and all schools and offices will be closed. Schools and offices will also be closed the week of Spring Break, April 6-10.
All students and staff are scheduled to return to school and work on Monday, April 13, 2026.
Have a safe and well-deserved break!
From feeder schools including Aiken Intermediate, Chukker Creek, Millbrook, & Oakwood-Windsor Elementary Schools and East Aiken School of the Arts to Kennedy’s own departments, every booth showed how literacy connects to every subject and everyday life.
Students explored hands-on activities, including a forensics experience with Aiken Public Safety and trivia with the Palmetto Sate Literacy Association. Activities didn’t stop there with booths hosting Mad Lib Madness, Mystery Manor, grammar cup stacking, engineering, word searches, spin-the-wheel, raffles, step-by-steps and much more!
It was a night to remember with food trucks, tons of engagement and nonstop excitement. We hope to see you next year at the annual Literacy Night!
#ACPSD #AikenCountyPublicSchools #LiteracyNight
AIKEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT, MARCH 24 BOARD MEETING
The Board of Education will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 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.
Aiken County Public School District had a blast hosting Congressman Joe Wilson and Councilman Byron Thomas for a "Capital" tour of our latest projects and student achievements.
The visits began at Belvedere Elementary School where we took a hard-hat tour with Hood Construction of the new 15,000+ sq. ft. cafeteria and gym! Belvedere's student ambassadors showed off Mrs. Robinson's incredible student art projects, and we even had a few "former Bears" on the Congressman's staff get a little nostalgic visiting the original building.
In the afternoon we headed over to South Aiken high School where their FFA students are proving they are true high-tech pros!
FFA teacher, Ms. Altringer, and her very knowledgeable students demonstrated their vertical aeroponic tower gardens and led a tour of the grounds, where a brand-new 5,400 sq. ft. workshop and greenhouse will soon take shape.
Thank you, Congressman Wilson and Councilman Thomas, for taking time out of your busy schedules to visit our amazing students and staff!
To read more about this exciting event please visit https://www.acpsd.net/article/2780583.
A NIGHT OF EXCELLENCE: CELEBRATING THE 2026-2027 STARS OF PUBLIC EDUCATION
Tonight, at Aiken High School, the air was filled with music from the Jazz Band and a shared sense of pride as we honored the incredible individuals who make Aiken County Public Schools shine.
As Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy reminded us, our schools are not defined by buildings or budgets, but by the people who show up every day for our students.
We are thrilled to introduce our 2026-2027 District Winners: District Teacher of the Year:
Jerry Brannon (Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle/High) A master of making complex science feel real and reachable. Mr. Brannon is a cornerstone of his school’s culture, known for meeting every learner exactly where they are with high expectations and a heart for mentorship.
First Year Teacher of the Year: Aleesha Ashe (North Augusta Elementary) In just her first year, Ms. Ashe has created a classroom filled with discovery and joy. Her poise and dedication to her 4K students prove that she is a rising star in the profession.
Principal of the Year: Dr. Charlene Heard (Warrenville Elementary) A visionary leader who believes that when educators are supported, students thrive. Dr. Heard’s leadership is rooted in the deep understanding that meaningful relationships are the foundation of academic growth.
Assistant Principal of the Year: Dr. Miranda Fulmer (Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle/High) Recognized for her innovative approach to school schedules and structures, Dr. Fulmer balances strategic data with a genuine heart for every student and staff member.
District Level Administrator of the Year: Brian Gibbons (Federal Programs) A leader of steady resolve and integrity. Mr. Gibbons is a vital guide for our principals, navigating complex responsibilities with a calm, compassionate approach.
Professional Staff Member of the Year: Carrie Adams (Hammond Hill Elementary) As a school nurse, Ms. Adams masterfully balances the well-being of our students with expert professional judgment, ensuring every child feels cared for, respected, and heard.
GEM of the Year: Karen Ulmer (North Augusta Elementary) The definition of service. Ms. Ulmer is the first to ask, "How can I help?" and brings a signature warmth to her school community that makes everyone feel at ease.
The evening also included a beautiful tribute to the legacy of Julie Revelle. Seeing so many staff members stand to honor her impact was a powerful reminder of what it means to lead with kindness.
To all our nominees and winners: Thank you for the talent and character you bring to our schools every single day!
Aiken County Public Schools will honor our STARS of Public Education this evening at a special event celebrating nominees for District Teacher of the Year, First Year Teacher of the Year, Principal of the Year, Assistant Principal of the Year, Professional Staff Member of the Year, District Level Administrator of the Year, and GEM. The evening will culminate with the announcement of winners in each category.
We are pleased to offer a live stream for families of our Honor Court members and others who are unable to attend in person. Please note that this is a simple live broadcast intended to share the experience in real time, and production quality may vary. Visit www.acpsd.net/stars at 6:00 p.m. to join us in celebrating our STARS of Public Education.
Aiken County elementary schools across the district got to show off all things green and lucky to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.
Activities included bingo, creating a leprechaun trap, guest readers in classrooms, searching for gold and more!
Today we recognize the dedicated school social workers and student service workers who support the well-being and success of our students and families every day. Their compassion and advocacy help remove barriers so students can learn, grow, and thrive.
To learn more about the school social worker/student service worker serving at your child’s school, check your school’s social media pages for a spotlight on their campus point of contact and the important work they do!
You may also check the Social Work Services webpage on your school’s website under Academics and Counseling.
#ACPSDCelebrates #ACPSD #AikenCountyPublicSchools #SocialWorkDay
In collaboration with local emergency management authorities, District leaders have been closely monitoring the severe weather forecasted for Aiken County tomorrow. Hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes are possible. Wind gusts of 60-75 mph are forecasted, which exceeds state regulations for the safe operation of school buses.
In abundance of caution and with safety at the forefront, tomorrow, Monday, March 16, will be an e-learning day for students and a remote work day for employees. Additional information on e-learning can be found under the Academics tab on your school's website.
Students who are able to complete e-learning assignments tomorrow are encouraged to do so. Students who do not have a device, reliable internet, or who are without power due to tomorrow's storm will have ample time to complete the e-learning work. Assignments will not be due until March 27th.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation. Please remain alert for any emergency weather related precautions that may be recommended to keep your family safe with tomorrow's storms.
Calling all ACPSD 6th–8th graders! Level up your skills this Spring Intercession (March 30 – April 2) at our hands-on art camp.
Explore: Graphite, charcoal, oil pastels, & paint.
Sessions: AM (8:30–11:15) or PM (12:00–2:45).
Deadline: Apply online by March 19.
Please visit https://www.acpsd.net/page/intersession to for more details.
⚠️ Space is limited to 40 spots!
Note: Transportation and meals are not provided.
Applications for Aiken County Public Schools’ 4K program close March 13.
✔ Child must be 4 years old by September 1, 2026
✔ Program led by certified teachers
✔ School year begins July 20, 2026
Families can apply online or scan the QR code on the flyer.
🔗 www.acpsd.net/5k
Our schools have recently practiced these safety procedures to respond to severe weather.
When conditions require the “Shelter” Standard Response Protocol, students cannot be signed out of school, as doing so would create an unsafe situation.
Please know that the safety and security of our students and staff is always our highest priority. For more information about our safety procedures and the Standard Response Protocol, please visit the Safe and Secure Schools section of our website or mobile app.
ACPSD alumni Chloe Lauren made it to the top 30 and competed on American Idol this past Monday, March 9, 2026! We are so excited to follow her on her journey. We had the chance to sit down with her for a special interview to talk about her time in ACPSD, her love for music, and what it has been like performing on the American Idol stage. Check it out below, we are so proud of our ACPSD alumni!
youtu.be/XJeYOmeq6Sk
#ACPSD #AlumniAchievement #AikenCountyPublicSchools
AIKEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT, MARCH 10 BOARD MEETING
The Board of Education will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, 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.