Aiken Elementary School

What started as a field trip turned into a special surprise!

Dressed in their very best, second-grade students at Aiken Elementary got to put their etiquette to the test with a surprise bistro experience, complete with menus, ordering, and a special dining experience they won't forget. Take a look below to hear directly from those who participated.

“Our teachers came together and had this great idea to teach a unit on etiquette and integrate it with their second-grade standards, through writing,” Principal Kristie Brooks explains. “When they come back from their field trip, their classrooms would be transformed into little bistros and the kids would be able to use the skills that they learned in class in a beautiful setting without having to take them to a restaurant to make it accessible to every kid to have an opportunity to use those skills.”

This is the fourth year of second graders at Aiken Elementary participating in Etiquette Day, an idea that started with Mrs. Janet Dickson and Mrs. Melissa Ferraro and has continued to grow.

“I look at it as a little skill. It may not be a state standard, but it's something that will help them in life,” Mrs. Dickson said. “It helps them learn how to treat people how they would like to be treated. This is an experience that some may never get. I want I want to provide that magic.”

Parents and other volunteers help make the surprise come to life from transforming the classroom to serving as wait staff for lunch.

“Coming together as a group and being able to present this to our children. I believe that once they see this, they're going to be so excited, and amazed because they don't even know that they're coming into this,” parent volunteer Deshauna Marseille said. “They're going to be excited, like, just a smile on their faces is going to make our day even brighter.”

“They are going to know exactly what to do and how to be amazing community members one day. They're going to know exactly what to do,” second grade teacher Mrs. Jennifer Hall said. “They are prepared, and they are ready to go bless other people in the community and know what to do when they go to a restaurant, and how to have good manners, even when they go to a friend's house in the future.”

“Our catchphrase is, we're better together, and this is a beautiful representation of the teachers, the parents coming together to help support and make this happen for our students,” Brooks said. “It’s beautiful.”

https://youtu.be/IUmExZF3eus

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!

https://youtu.be/m8OiHs5nqLo

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

Come join the fun! SC Ready Kick Off Carnival!

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!

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 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!

Happy World Social Work day!

Today we are highlighting the student service worker who serves Aiken Elementary and the important role she plays in supporting students and families. Read below to hear in Keiautta Wade's own words, why she does this work and what inspires her to serve our school community every day.

“School Social Workers are professionals, who bridge the gap between schools and communities, to support families. As a school social worker, I’m able to support students academic, social, and emotional success. It’s such a blessing being able to reach students beyond the classroom. I’ve had the pleasure of assisting with Christmas plays, choirs, lunch buddy, along with Black History committee for my local middle school.

Advocating for my students gives me great joy, knowing their needs are met. Getting to do what I love is rewarding. I’ll soon be furthering my education in the social work field, while continuing providing the best support for my students and families. School social work is not just a job, it’s a ministry. This is simply why I’m a social worker”

For more information about the supports available to students and families, visit the Social Work Services page under Academics and Counseling section on Aiken Elementary School’s website, www.acpst.net/aes-sw.

#ACPSDCelebrates #ACPSD #AikenCountyPublicSchools #SocialWorkDay

Kids Heart Challenge Lifesavers Leaguehttps://myhrt.org/conko

Final week to help raise money for the American Heart Association and help save lives! We have raised $4225 so far which is 70% of our school goal of $6,000!! Right now Ms. Dean’s class is in the lead with 70% of her class registered and they have the most money raised of all the classes with $875! We also have 15 students who have completed Finn’s Mission and have earned their super hero capes and will get to attend the “Capes and Cupcakes” event in the gym next week. There is still time to join in!

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.

Join Coach Tice and the Aiken High Girls Soccer Team for our upcoming Soccer Training Camp! This is a great opportunity for young athletes to sharpen their skills and make new friends over Spring Break.

• Who: Boys & Girls in Grades 1-5

• When: March 30th - April 1st | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

• Where: Aiken High Stadium (Teague St.)

• Cost: $75 (includes a t-shirt)

• How to Register: Scan the QR code on the flyer or head over to GoFan to sign up. See you on the field!