CLASS OF 2025 VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN PROFILES Aiken High School Salutatorian: Carson Josef Colmer Carson Josef Colmer, Salutatorian of the Aiken High School Class of 2025, will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he plans to study Aerospace Engineering. A natural leader, Carson served as Senior Class President and was actively involved in student government throughout high school. One of his favorite memories was traveling with fellow student government officers on leadership trips—experiences that deepened friendships and strengthened his commitment to teamwork and service. Carson’s goal is to become a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force, and he’s excited for the journey ahead as he prepares to take on the challenges of one of the world’s top engineering programs. Congratulations, Carson! #ACPSDcelebrates #ClassOf2025
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public Schools
Aiken High School Salutatorian Carson Josef Colmer
CLASS OF 2025 VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN PROFILES Aiken High School Valedictorian: Joanna Thanh Brown Joanna Thanh Brown, Valedictorian of the Aiken High School Class of 2025, plans to attend the University of South Carolina in Columbia, where she will study Meteorology. During her time at Aiken High, Joanna was an active member of the marching band and the Academic Quizbowl team. Among her favorite memories are traveling to band competitions with her fellow musicians and attending the National Academic Quizbowl Tournament in Atlanta—both experiences that combined learning, teamwork, and lasting friendships. Congratulations, Joanna! #ACPSDcelebrates #ClassOf2025
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public Schools
Aiken High School Valedictorian Joanna Thanh Brown
Jeanette Hunter began a pursuit for her GED in 2023 at the age of 68. Yesterday, she addressed her fellow graduates, a class of more than 150 adults who persevered, many overcoming significant life challenges, and earned their high school diploma or GED. We celebrate you, Adult Education Graduates! Your collective resilience, determination, and commitment to rewrite the script of your lives is inspiring! #ACPSDcelebrates #ClassOf2025
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public Schools
A female adult education graduate in a blue robe and cap smiling.
Male Adult Education Graduate in a blue cap and gown with his arm around a young boy.
Female Adult Graduate in a Blue Robe and Cap shaking hands with the Superintendent in a Black Robe.
Male Adult Graduate in a blue cap and gown walking.
Last night, we celebrated Aiken Scholar’s Academy’s Class of 2025. As these driven and incredibly intelligent scholars pursue their dreams, may they remember the words of their Valedictorian Sarah Ferida Porcha-Konjikusic. “The world is not waiting for perfection,” she shared. “It is waiting for discernment, authenticity, and courage.” Go forth and do great things, ASA Class of 2025! #ACPSDcelebrates #ClassOf2025
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public Schools
Blonde female graduate wearing a gray robe with burgundy accents looking into a crowd.
The back of graduates heads with gray and burgundy cap and gowns.
Three male and one female group of graduates in gray and burgundy robes and caps.
Students in Gray and Burgundy graduation robes throwing up caps.
More than 500 seniors representing their high schools gathered this evening to celebrate earning career certifications at the 2025 Senior Completer Ceremony. Congratulations to our Career & Technical Education (CTE) Completers of the Class of 2025! #ACPSDcelebrates #ClassOf2025
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public Schools
Image from the back of students in graduation robes.
A male South Aiken, Female Aiken High, and Male North Augusta High student smile.
Three girls smile in green and gold robes, representing Aiken High.
Two CTE Completers in Orange and Blue Robes representing Midland Valley talk at the ceremony.
CLASS OF 2025 VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN PROFILES Aiken Scholars Academy Salutatorian: McKenna Hope Davis McKenna Hope Davis is proud to be named the Class of 2025 Salutatorian for Aiken Scholars Academy. This fall, she plans to attend Clemson University, where she will major in Architecture and is enrolled in the Clemson Honors College. McKenna is excited to continue her academic journey and hopes to achieve just as many of her aspirations in college as she did during high school. Congratulations, McKenna! #ACPSDcelebrates #ClassOf2025
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public Schools
Aiken Scholars Academy Salutatorian McKenna Hope Davis
CLASS OF 2025 VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN PROFILES Aiken Scholars Academy Valedictorian: Sarah Ferida Porcha-Konjikusic Throughout high school, Sarah Ferida Porcha-Konjikusic remained committed to academic excellence while playing four years of varsity tennis for South Aiken High School. She also held leadership roles in several organizations, including Beta Club, National Honor Society, Social Inc., and student government. Sarah is passionate about community service, demonstrated through her volunteer work with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, ACTS of Aiken County, and United Way. She is also deeply involved in her church and takes great pride in being multilingual. This fall, Sarah plans to attend the University of South Carolina Honors College, where she will major in Biochemistry. She aspires to pursue a career in medicine, specializing in plastic surgery. Sarah is immensely grateful for the support she received from Aiken Scholars Academy and the greater school district. Congratulations, Sarah! #ACPSDcelebrates #ClassOf2025
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public Schools
Aiken Scholars Academy Valedictorian Sarah Ferida Porcha-Konjikusic
CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2025 🎓 Aiken County Public Schools is proud to celebrate this year’s graduating class! Graduation ceremonies will take place May 28–May 30, and we invite you to join us in honoring the Class of 2025 by viewing their commencement ceremonies virtually. To access the live stream, visit www.acpsd.net/graduation and select the high school of your choice. Live streams will begin 15 minutes prior to each ceremony’s start time. 📅 Graduation Schedule Wednesday, May 28 • CTE Senior Completer Ceremony – 5:00 p.m. • Aiken Scholars Academy – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 29 • Aiken High School – 2:00 p.m. • Ridge Spring-Monetta High School – 5:00 p.m. • Silver Bluff High School – 8:00 p.m. Friday, May 30 • South Aiken High School – 9:00 a.m. • Wagener-Salley High School – 12:00 p.m. • Midland Valley High School – 3:00 p.m. • North Augusta High School – 7:00 p.m. Hats off to the Class of 2025! 🎉 #ACPSDcelebrates #ClassOf2025
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public Schools
Congratulations Aiken County Public Schools Class of 2025 Banner with School Logos
Aiken County Public School District’s full-time virtual program, Aiken iNNOVATE, is now accepting applications for the 2025–2026 school year. If you or your student are currently in 5th grade or higher and interested in a flexible, innovative learning environment, now is the time to apply. Aiken iNNOVATE offers a 100% virtual experience with certified ACPSD teachers and curriculum, providing students in grades 6–12 the opportunity to learn from anywhere while staying connected to their school community. To apply, visit www.acpsd.net/ai. If you have any questions, feel free to email Ai@acpsd.net. Don’t miss this opportunity to take charge of your education through Aiken iNNOVATE. Spots are limited.
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public School District
Aiken iNNOVATE 2025-2026 Promotional Flyer with QR Code and contact information to learn more.
Aiken County Public School District, May 27 BOARD MEETING - The Board of Education will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 27, 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 year ago, Aiken County Public School District
Happy Memorial Day! All schools & offices are closed today (Monday, May 26) and will reopen tomorrow.
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public School District
Red, White, and Blue Patriotic Image.
🌟 Honoring Our Heroes This Memorial Day Weekend 🌟 As we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, we also take this moment to recognize the everyday heroes in our schools—our dedicated teachers, support staff, and administrators. Your commitment to shaping the future through education uplifts our community and strengthens the values we hold dear. Thank you for your service to our students, especially as we reflect on service and sacrifice this Memorial Day. If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine #SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates
about 1 year ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, May 25, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Dustin Fowler Aiken iNNOVATE Virtual Learning Coordinator Dustin works tirelessly to support his students and staff! He wears so many hats and 5/25handles his workload with grace. Thank you for all you do, Dustin!!
Daniel Gardner Maintenance Plumber Thanks so much for all that you do for our school! You always have a positive helpful attitude when you come in the office to complete work orders. We appreciate you! Thank you! NAMS Office Staff
Ron Johnson Aiken Scholars Academy English Teacher He goes above and beyond! He gets the students engaged and excited about what they’re learning. He helps guide them and treats them as adults.
Lauren Enter Special Programs Coordinator of Elementary Special Education Lauren is one of the most helpful and supportive people I have ever worked with. She is willing to go out of her way to help others and provide support to coworkers. She maintains a positive and pleasant attitude, even when managing difficult or frustrating situations. She provides positive praise and supportive feedback to everyone around her. I could not do my job efficiently or effectively without her! Angela Hodges
Michelle McCord Leavelle McCampbell Middle School Instructional Aide Ms. McCord is always there to help in any way possible. She is a joy to have around and makes every day worth coming to work. Every school needs a Ms. McCord. Hastings
Kippy Kelly JD Lever Elementary Principal Mrs. Kelly always puts others before herself. She always faces challenges with grace and puts the needs of others before her own. She does an amazing job with each student and staff member in her building. She is a wonderful person, partner, and principal. We love her dearly. JD Lever Front Office Staff
Hannah Ellison Byrd Elementary Speech Language Pathologist I just want to give a shout-out to one of our amazing speech therapists, Hannah Ellison. You have such a kind soul, and it shines through in the way you care for your students and their families. You're thoughtful, compassionate, and always ready to support the team. It's truly a gift to work alongside someone like you - thank you for being you!
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
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!
about 1 year ago, Aiken County Public School District
Seamless Summer Meal Program 2025 Flyer
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
about 1 year 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.
about 1 year 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
about 1 year 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
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
🎉 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
about 1 year ago, Department of Special Programs
BetterSpeechandHearing
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.
about 1 year 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
about 1 year 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.
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
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
about 1 year 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.