Aiken Innovate -

Every moment of support adds up to something bigger for our students.

This week we are proud to recognize the incredible volunteers who help bring our schools to life. It is a time to celebrate the staff, students, families, and community members who generously give their time to support learning in meaningful ways. Whether assisting in classrooms, supporting media centers, helping at school events, working behind the scenes, and so much more, our volunteers play a vital role in creating welcoming and successful school environments.

Help us say thank you and comment below to shout out a volunteer who makes a difference!

#ACPSDCelebrates #PublicSchoolVolunteerWeek #AikenCountyPublicSchools

Today, we proudly Purple Up in support of our military-connected students and families.

To our military families, thank you for your service, your strength, and the many sacrifices you make. We are honored to serve your children and celebrate them not just today, but every day.

"Purple up" with Aiken County Public Schools on Friday, April 17th, as we combine Air Force blue, Army green, Navy blue, Marine red, Space Force blue and Coast Guard blue and wear PURPLE in a demonstration of support for the families of those who serve.

Help us honor the month of The Military Family by showing your support for the families of those who serve by wearing purple and thanking a military family for their bravery and service below. Make sure to tag us in your Purple Up posts!

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. Visit our Purple Star webpages which provide easy access to resources, support services, transition tools, and important information to help every child thrive.

www.acpsd.net/purple-star

#ACPSDCelebrates #PurpleUp #AikenCountyPublicSchools

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

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!

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.