On Monday, more than 23,000 students will return to classrooms across Aiken County Public Schools, marking the beginning of the 2026–27 school year.

The start of a new school year brings fresh opportunities, new experiences, and exciting possibilities for students, families, and employees alike. Throughout the summer, our teachers, staff, and school leaders have prepared safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environments where every student can learn, grow, and thrive.

Aiken County Public Schools is grateful for the incredible support of our community throughout the back-to-school season. From school supply drives to partnerships like United Way of Aiken County's Stuff the Bus campaign, your generosity has helped ensure students begin the school year equipped for success.

We are excited to welcome everyone back on Monday and look forward to another outstanding year of teaching, learning, and achievement across Aiken County Public Schools.

#AikenCountyPublicSchools #BackToSchool #MeetYourTeacher #WalkYourSchedule

about 1 month ago, Aiken County Public School District
A student at Aiken High School speaks to her teacher.
Two elementary school students pose with a class fish, Bluey.
Families gather in the hallways for Walk Your Schedule.
Aiken High showcases its new activity bus.
Two elementary school students speak with their new teacher.
An Aiken High teacher helps a family navigate their schedule.
Silver Bluff showcases its new activities bus.
A Belvedere student smiles in front of a PTO table.
A student and teacher pose together at Belvedere Elementary.
Midland Valley showcases its new activities bus.

READY, SET, TEACH!

More than 1,700 Aiken County Public Schools educators came together today for Ready, Set, Teach!, our districtwide Professional Development Day designed to prepare teachers for a successful 2026-27 school year.

Throughout the day, educators participated in four 75-minute learning sessions focused on updated curriculum, instructional strategies, and best practices to strengthen teaching and learning from day one. Training was tailored by grade level and subject area, with specialized learning opportunities for Career & Technical Education, JROTC, Fine Arts, Media Specialists, School Counselors, Multilingual Learners, and Special Education staff. At the same time, educators at J.D. Lever Elementary, Millbrook Elementary, and Silver Bluff High School participated in Capturing Kids' Hearts training on their campuses.

The day featured more than 340 unique professional development sessions, resulting in over 5,000 session registrations and more than 8,000 recertification credits earned by our dedicated educators.

One of the greatest strengths of Ready, Set, Teach! is that many of the sessions were developed and led by our own outstanding teachers, instructional coaches, and district leaders, highlighting the expertise that exists within Aiken County Public Schools.

A special thank you to our valued partners, including outside presenters, instructional technology and textbook providers, and Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS), for helping make today's learning possible.

We also appreciate our host sites: Aiken Technical College, Aiken High School, Highland Springs Middle School, Kennedy Middle School, Leavelle McCampbell Middle School, Midland Valley High School, and North Augusta High School.

By investing in our educators, we are investing in the success of every student. Here's to a great 2026-27 school year!

about 1 month ago, Aiken County Public School District
Dr. Amy Edwards leading a professional development meeting.
A principal engages in a discussion with Dr. Amy Edwards and the group.
An instructor leading a professional development session.
Worksheet with an activity for teachers.
Multilingual Learning teachers sit at a computer lab and watch a presentation.
Special Education teachers receive training during 'Ready, Set, Teach!'
Band teachers learn best practices during professional development day.
Mr. Bert Postell, Assistant Superintendent of High Schools, speaks to CTE instructors.

AIKEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT, JULY 14 BOARD MEETING
The Board of Education will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, July 14, 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.

about 1 month ago, Aiken County Public School District

The 2026–27 school year is almost here, and this week has been all about preparing for an incredible first day.

We were thrilled to welcome 192 new teachers to Aiken County Public School District during IGNITE, our annual new teacher orientation. From an enthusiastic welcome by student cheerleaders to breakfast with school leaders, our newest educators experienced the warmth, support, and pride that make ACPSD such a special place. Throughout IGNITE, they built connections, explored district expectations, and participated in professional learning designed to set them up for success from day one.

As always the event highlight was the "Fashion Show!" From business casual to classroom ready, our school and district leaders showed how to dress for success while keeping it professional and dress-code appropriate. Big thank you to our leadership for walking in style.

At the same time, our new and returning principals and assistant principals came together for ASCEND: A Leadership Summit for Excellence, where they collaborated, sharpened their leadership skills, and prepared to welcome students, staff, and families for another outstanding year.

Thank you to our speakers, session leaders, generous sponsors, and community vendors for helping make this events such a success!

There is nothing quite like the excitement of a new school year, and we can't wait to welcome our students back on Monday, July 20!

Let's make it our best year yet!

about 1 month ago, Aiken County Public School District
A new teacher walks into Aiken County Ignite orientation through a tunnel of cheerleaders.
New teachers to Aiken County watch fashion show at Ignite.
Principals from MVHS and NAHS standing back-to-back while showcasing appropriate dress code clothes.
New teachers pose for a photo with their school prinicipal.
New teachers learn systems for ACPSD at Ignite.
Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy speaks to Aiken County Public Schools Administrators.
Administrators and District level leaders listen to a variety of training topics.
Administrators listen to lecturers for the 2026-2027 school year.
Two administrators collaborate together.
Administrators collaborate on a project during Ascend.

Aiken County Public Schools will be closed Thursday, July 2, and Friday, July 3, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. School district offices will reopen on Monday, July 6. Wishing you and your family a safe and joyful Fourth of July! #ACPSDcelebrates #FourthOfJuly #IndependenceDay

about 2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Happy Fourth of July with American Flag background and ACPSD logo.

5K Families: Don't Forget About Staggered Start!

As we get ready to welcome our youngest learners back to school, our kindergarten students will be using a staggered start for the first days of the school year. Your child's assigned start date and other important details will come directly from your child's school.

Be sure to check your:

  • Email

  • Parent Portal

  • School's Website

  • School's Social Media

If you haven't received any information, it's possible your student's registration is not yet complete. Please complete your student's registration as soon as possible so you don't miss important back-to-school updates. Contact your child's school for any questions.

We can't wait to welcome students back for a great school year!

about 2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
ACPSD Reminder: 5K Staggered Start, please check your email, parent portal, school's website and social media. Registration information can be found at www.acpsd.net/register.
Employee of the Month

Congratulations to Sharon Morton of Highland Springs Middle School!

Sharon is an exceptional custodian who takes genuine pride in her work. She is consistently thorough, reliable, and attentive to the details that help keep her school clean, welcoming, and well cared for.

Her positive attitude and strong work ethic make a noticeable difference each day. Sharon is truly a valued asset and a pleasure to work with.

Thank you, Sharon, for your dedication and for the care you bring to your work every day!
about 2 months ago, Human Resources
Ms. Sharon Morton holding an employee of the month award.

AIKEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT, JUNE 30th SPECIALLY CALLED BOARD MEETING
The Board of Education will hold a specially called meeting on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, beginning at 6:00 p.m.  Please visit www.acpsd.net/board-live 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 2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District

We invite newly enrolled families who speak a non-English language at home to attend one of our Multilingual Learner Registration & Language Screening Events.

This event is designed to help identify students who may qualify for language support services before the start of the school year. At this event, newly enrolled students will complete a 30–60-minute language screening before meeting the Multilingual Learners (ML) Teacher Team and learn about available school supports.

Interpreters will be available to assist families throughout the event.

Events at Six Points:
Monday, July 6th | 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Tuesday, July 7th | 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Thursday, July 9th | 1:00pm - 7:00pm

Event at Ridge-Spring Monnetta Middle/High:
Wednesday, July 8th | 1:00pm - 7:00pm

Registration help will be available; returning students should bring two proofs of residency and their parent portal login info. New students should bring two proofs of residency, a copy of their birth certificate, and their immunization records. Our goal is to ensure every multilingual learner begins the school year with the services, resources, and support they need to succeed from day one.

Have questions? Please contact the Director of Multilingual Learners, Dr. Elisabeth Hardy, at ehardy@acpsd.net or (803) 641-2428.

We look forward to seeing you there!

#ACPSDRegistration #ACPSDMultilanguageLearners #MultilingualLearners

about 2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Folleto informativo sobre el evento de inscripción escolar y evaluación de competencia lingüística para estudiantes multilingües (ML) de las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Aiken. Las familias nuevas y las que ya forman parte del distrito pueden asistir los días 6, 7 o 9 de julio, de 1:00 p. m. a 7:00 p. m., en la cafetería Six Points de Aiken. Habrá intérpretes disponibles. Los nuevos estudiantes multilingües realizarán una evaluación de competencia lingüística de entre 30 y 60 minutos, y se ofrecerá asistencia para el proceso de inscripción. Contacto: Elisabeth Hardy, directora del programa para estudiantes multilingües, en ehardy@acpsd.net.
Flyer for Aiken County Public School's Multilingual Learner (ML) School Registration and Language Proficiency Screeening Event. New and returning families can attend on July 6, 7 or 9 from 1:00-7:00 pm at Six Points Cafeteria in Aiken. Interpreters will be available. New multilingual learners will complete a 30-60 minute language learning screening, and registration assistance is available. Contact: Elisabeth Hardy, Director of Multilingual Learners at ehardy@acpsd.net.
Folleto informativo sobre el evento de inscripción escolar y evaluación de competencia lingüística para estudiantes multilingües (ML) de las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Aiken. Las familias nuevas y las que ya forman parte del distrito pueden asistir el 8 de julio, de 1:00 p. m. a 7:00 p. m., en la cafetería de Ridge Spring-Monetta. Habrá intérpretes disponibles. Los nuevos estudiantes multilingües realizarán una evaluación de competencia lingüística de entre 30 y 60 minutos, y se ofrecerá asistencia para el proceso de inscripción. Contacto: Elisabeth Hardy, directora del programa de estudiantes multilingües, en ehardy@acpsd.net.
Flyer for Aiken County Public School's Multilingual Learner (ML) School Registration and Language Proficiency Screeening Event. New and returning families can attend on July 8 from 1:00-7:00 pm at the Ridge Spring-Monetta Cafeteria.. Interpreters will be available. New multilingual learners will complete a 30-60 minute language learning screening, and registration assistance is available. Contact: Elisabeth Hardy, Director of Multilingual Learners at ehardy@acpsd.net.

On Thursday, June 25th, we proudly celebrated the graduation of this year’s Junior Leadership class at the North Augusta Municipal Building.

This program is designed for rising ninth graders and takes place each June. Throughout seven sessions, students explore their leadership styles and strengths, meet community and industry leaders, and gain insight into careers that may interest them.

We are incredibly proud of these students!

#ACPSDCelebrates #ACPSD #AikenCountyPublicSchools

about 2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Junior Leadership graduates posing for photo with their award.
Close up shot of Junior Leadership trophy.
Shot of the North Augusta Chambers photo backdrop, and the NA Chambers podium.
One of the Junior Leaders former graduate and now coach posing for a photo with his father.
Junior Leadership graduate smiling for a photo.
Junior Leadership graduate smiling at table.
Junior Leadership graduate presenting her presentation at the graduation.
Terra Carroll hugging a graduate who presented her with a gift.
Terra Carroll presenting to the crowd.
A big screen acknowlodging the Junior Leadership Academy Class of 2026.

Mark your calendars for this year's completely free Back to School Bash, hosted by community organizer Victoria Paloma!

This exciting event will take place on July 18th, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Roy Warner Park (6021 Roy Warner Park LN, Wagener, SC 29164) to help students kick off the school year with confidence.

Available on a first-come, first-served basis, children can receive free bookbags, school supplies, brand-new outfits, shoes, gift cards, fresh haircuts, professional hair braiding, food, and much more.

Please see the attached flyer for more information.

about 2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Flyer advertising a Back To School Bash in Wagener, SC. There will be free bookbags, food, clothes, shoes, gift cards and more. Contact Victoria at 803-681-0162 with questions or more information.

Don’t Forget to Register Your Student for the 2026-27 School Year!

This is an important reminder to complete registration for the upcoming school year. While we need all new and returning students registered as soon as possible, we are issuing a special call to action for our incoming 5K (Kindergarten) families. Registering your rising kindergartener right now is essential for classroom planning and ensuring our littlest learners have a perfect start on Day One!

New and Returning Student Registration is underway for the upcoming 2026-27 School Year.

Please take a few minutes to review the registration information at www.acpsd.net/register or go directly to your parent portal in PowerSchool at http://aiken.powerschool.com/public. 

For returning students, registration takes just a few minutes through your parent portal account as the student’s existing registration information will pre-populate. Please review and change any information that needs updating and ensure that up-to-date emergency contact information is included for each student.

Registering your student now helps us get ready to welcome your student back after the summer and ensure a smooth start to next school year, allowing teachers and classrooms to be assigned to serve your student on day one.

We thank you, as always, for your partnership in an excellent educational experience.

#ACPSDRegistration #ACPSD5K #KindergartenRegistration #ReturningStudentRegistration #SouthCarolinaSchoolRegistration #AikenK-12SchoolRegistration


about 2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
ACPSD Registration is now open for new and returning students! Go to www.acpsd.net/register
5K Registration is open! Visit www.acpsd.net/5K to learn more.
The curtain has closed on another incredible acGATEWAY summer! From stunning artwork to memorable performances, students spent the past several weeks learning, creating, and growing as artists. Congratulations to everyone who helped make the 2026 program such a special experience. Interested in joining the next generation of acGATEWAY artists? Keep an eye out for 2027 audition and application information coming this fall! #acGATEWAY #ACPSD

2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
acGATEWAY students posing at the end of a performance on stage.
acGATEWAY creative writing students on stage giving a performance.
acGATEWAY elementary dance students performing.
acGATEWAY Choir on stage perfoming.
acGATEWAY dance students pose for a picture with their instructor after the show.
acGATEWAY students artwork on display.
acGATEWAY student poses in front of her artwork.

Help United Way of Aiken County Stuff the Bus for ACPSD Students!

We invite our community to help provide the essential tools local students need to succeed in the upcoming school year.

Event Dates and Locations:

  • Friday, June 19 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

    • Richland Ave. Walmart

    • 3581 Richland Ave., Aiken, SC 29081

  • Friday, July 10 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

    • Sam’s Club Aiken

    • 220 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Aiken, SC 29081

Most Needed School Supplies:

  • Composition Notebooks

  • No. 2 Pencils

  • Crayons (24-count)

  • Glue Sticks

  • Pocket Folders

Every single donation directly impacts a child's education. Please consider sharing this post to help spread the word to neighbors, colleagues, and friends.

See flyer for more information!

2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Event flyer for "Stuff the Bus: a School Tools event" hosted by United Way of Aiken County. The center text reads: "Stuff the Bus a School Tools event, providing the supplies kids need to succeed in school." 2 Days & Locations" in large red and blue text, detailed as follows: June 19th: Richland Ave. Walmart, 3581 Richland Ave., Aiken, SC 29081 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. July 10th: Sam’s Club Aiken, 220 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Aiken, SC 29081 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

AIKEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT, JUNE 9 BOARD MEETING
The Board of Education will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 9, 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.

2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District

Join us as we celebrate the Aiken County Public School District Class of 2026!

We are excited to share a video highlighting this years graduation ceremonies. From the first steps across the stage to the dreams that lie ahead, this special graduation film highlights the achievements, memories, and aspirations of graduates from across our district. Featuring messages from graduates and their family members, this video captures the pride, perseverance, and promise that defines the class of 2026.

To watch the video please visit: https://youtu.be/un1GlK9bodA?si=qmtFcZ06OcF6vIzA

We are proud to celebrate our graduates across Aiken County and in addition to watching this video we invite you to please take a moment and read about their amazing accomplishments at www.acpsd.net/2026-grads.

Congratulations to our graduates as they begin the next chapter of their journey. Your story is just beginning.

#ACPSDCelebrates #ACPSD2026Grads #AikenCountyPublicSchools #2026Graduation

3 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
ACPSD Graduation, Class of 2026 YouTube video Thumbnail.
Employee of the Month

Congratulations to Tracey Johnson of Corbett Middle School!

Ms. Johnson is known for going above and beyond for both students and staff. Her compassion, patience, and willingness to stop what she is doing to listen to students make a meaningful difference each day.

Her experience and knowledge also make her a trusted “go-to” person for her coworkers. Ms. Johnson does not do what she does for recognition. She does it because of the special kind of person she is.
3 months ago, Human Resources
Ms. Tracey Johnson holding an employee of the month award.

PALMETTO CIVICS PROJECT AN INITIATIVE OF THE SC DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Families are invited to participate in Summer SC 250 activities as South Carolina prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and our state’s important role in our nation’s history. These summer activities provide meaningful opportunities for students and families to learn, explore, and connect with local and state history. Take part and help celebrate South Carolina’s rich history, heritage, and contributions to our country.

The Palmetto Civics Project is a resource-rich initiative designed to foster students’ understanding of and respect for the institutions that sustain our civic life. Our goal is simple but profound: every South Carolina graduate will leave school prepared to embrace the privileges and the responsibilities of American citizenship.

Please visit SC Palmetto Civics Project to learn more.

3 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Logo for the South Carolina Palmetto Civics Project an Initiative of The SC Department of Education.

AIKEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT, JUNE 2 BOARD MEETING
The Board of Education will hold a special called meeting on Tuesday, June 2, 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.

3 months ago, Aiken County Public School District

Healthy Meals at No Cost This Summer!

The Seamless Summer Meal Program is back for Summer 2026! We are dedicated to ensuring school-age children and eligible individuals have access to nutritious foods to learn, play, and grow all summer long.

Here is everything you need to know about locations, dates, and times:

Program Details

  • Who Qualifies: Healthy meals are served at no cost to school-age children 18 years & under, as well as disabled persons/children 21 years and under who are enrolled in school.

  • Onsite Policy: All meals MUST be eaten onsite.

  • Adult Meals: Adults are welcome to eat with their children! Adult meals can be purchased at the following rates: Breakfast: $3.20 | Lunch: $5.50.

Elementary School Locations

When: Monday – Thursday, June 1 – June 18 Times: Breakfast: 7:00 AM - 7:30 AM | Lunch: 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

  • Belvedere Elementary: 115 Monterey Ave, North Augusta | 803-442-6330

  • Busbee Elementary: 20 A. L. Corbett Circle, Wagener | 839-846-7008

  • Graniteville Elementary: 1 Willis Circle, Graniteville | 803-663-9998

  • JD Lever Elementary: 2404 Columbia Hwy, Aiken | 803-641-2760

  • Redcliffe Elementary: 22 Double Springs Rd, Aiken | 803-827-3350

  • Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary: 1081 Trojan Road, Monetta | 839-846-7010

High School Locations

When: Monday – Thursday, June 1 – June 25 Times: Breakfast: 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM | Lunch: 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

  • Aiken High School: 449 Rutland Drive, Aiken | 803-641-2500

  • Midland Valley High: 227 Mustang Drive, Graniteville | 803-593-7100

  • North Augusta High: 2000 Knobcone Ave, North Augusta | 803-442-6100

  • Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle/High: 21071 Trojan Road, Monetta | 803-846-7010

  • Silver Bluff High: 64 Desoto Drive, Aiken | 803-652-8100

  • South Aiken High: 223 East Pine Log Road, Aiken | 803-641-2600

  • Wagener-Salley High: 326 Seivern Road, Wagener | 839-846-7006

Questions?

If you have any questions, please reach out to our Child Nutrition Program Director:

3 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Flyer for Chartwells Seamless Summer Meal Program. Healthy Meals at No cost. It lists the Elementary & High School Locations as well as the times. If you have questions, please contact Ebonee Maxwell at EMaxwell@acpsd.net or 803-991-3408.