Sunday Shine | May Day
May Day, May Day… we have a situation! Too much appreciation and not enough ways to say THANK YOU!
As we wrap up Teacher Appreciation Week and celebrate Mother’s Day, we’re sending out a full-on gratitude alert to the real MVPs of ACPSD.
To our teachers, grading, guiding, and somehow still smiling by Friday.
To our moms and mother figures, running homes, supporting schools, and doing it all like pros.
This isn’t an emergency… it’s a celebration!
We see you. We appreciate you. We celebrate you.
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









We're hiring the drivers who keep our schools moving.
Join us for our Bus Driver Hiring Event and take the first step toward a rewarding career supporting students everyday.
Date: May 14, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Transportation Office located at 2457 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Warrenville, SC 29851
We will be conducting interviews and providing information about driver training. No experience is required. Please come prepared for an interview and bring your resume which should include reference contact information. Interviews will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Pre-registration is highly recommended to ensure a faster, smoother check-in experience, but walk-ins are welcome.
Registration link: https://acpsd.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5593469
If you have additional questions, please reach out to Hope Mullins at hmullins@acpsd.net.

Sunday Shine | Amp the Appreciation
We’re ALL AMPED UP for Teacher Appreciation Week! Our educators are true rock stars bringing energy, passion, and heart into every classroom, every single day. You power up our students, spark curiosity, and keep the rhythm of learning alive across our district. Here’s to an ELECTRIC week of celebrating the incredible impact you make!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









Congratulations to Aretha Tarver, School Counselor at Chukker Creek Elementary!
Mrs. Tarver goes above and beyond to support students academically, socially, and emotionally. From leading student support groups with integrated math tutoring to coaching award-winning Beta Club students, her impact is both measurable and meaningful. She also supports after-school learning, builds community partnerships to strengthen literacy, and leads service opportunities that teach students the value of giving back.
Her dedication, leadership, and commitment to student success make her truly deserving of this recognition.

Did you know? Retired educators with a valid Professional Certificate can keep sharing their wisdom in the classroom through the Retired Educator Certificate!
Here’s how it works:
✅ Apply beginning May 1 if your certificate expires June 30.
✅ Once approved, you’ll receive a Retired Educator Certificate effective July 1.
✅ Keep renewing every 5 years with a quick request through My SC Educator Portal—no coursework required!
Your passion and experience are priceless, and we’d love for you to continue making a difference with ACPSD students!
Ready to keep inspiring? Visit ed.sc.gov to learn more!

Aiken County Public Schools is solving for X… and X = Amazing Math Teachers
If you can divide and conquer, multiply student success, and keep problems from becoming irrational… we need you on our team!
Come help students add up their potential and subtract their doubts.
Apply today and make every lesson count!

At Aiken County Public Schools, our diversity is our strength—and we’re looking for passionate educators to support our Multilingual Learner Program!
Do you have a heart for language, culture, and helping students succeed across languages and backgrounds? Join our team of educators who uplift, empower, and celebrate the many languages spoken in our schools.
Your work will help bridge communication, build confidence, and open doors for multilingual learners every single day.

Your hard work is the fuel that keeps Aiken County moving forward, and this Friday, we are turning up the volume to say thank you!
Please mark your calendars for Friday, May 1, for our annual AMP THE APPRECIATION event. We are excited to bring our entire team together in beautiful downtown Aiken for a night dedicated entirely to celebrating your dedication, your talent, and the incredible work you do every single day.
Event Highlights & Logistics
Kickoff & Registration: The festivities begin at 3:30 PM at the tent located in the center of The Alley.
Downtown Dollars: Visit the tent to collect your "Downtown Dollars" to spend as you shop, eat, and explore the heart of our city.
Raffle Entries: When you pick up your dollars, you are automatically entered into our raffle drawings for prizes donated by our generous local business partners.
Event Guide: A list will be shared next Friday morning featuring participating shops, restaurants, and exclusive "Educator Specials" to maximize your Downtown Dollars.
Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances by our own talented student performers starting at 5:00 PM, followed by our headliner, Savannah Sunday, taking the stage at 7:00 PM.
Arts & Culture: While strolling on Laurens Street, stop by the Aiken Center for the Arts to view student artwork and get an exclusive sneak peek at this weekend’s Fine Art Festival.
Aiken County truly loves our teachers and staff, and we cannot wait to see everyone there to AMP THE APPRECIATION once again. You give your best to our schools every day; now, it is our turn to give back to you.
The stage is set, and the spotlight is officially on you, and we can’t wait to see you Friday in The Alley!

Sunday Shine | Words Matter
We’re back in the swing after Spring Break and ready to finish strong! Across every generation, one thing remains timeless, words of affirmation matter. A kind word, a note of thanks, or a simple shoutout can brighten someone’s day and remind them their work makes a difference.
Around our district, many proudly display their Shine recognitions in their workspaces, not just as awards, but as reminders that they are seen, valued, and appreciated.
As we step into a new week, take a moment to encourage a colleague, thank a teammate, or recognize someone going above and beyond. Your words may be the spark they need today.
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









Work for us Wednesday | Why I work for ACPSD
We know what makes Aiken County Public Schools special… our people.
Now we want to hear from you!
As we celebrate the amazing employees of ACPSD, we’re launching our “Why I Work for ACPSD” spotlight series. This is your chance to share what inspires you, what keeps you here, and why you love serving our students and community.
Submit your:
- Short “why” statement
- Headshot
Selected submissions will be featured on our social media pages as we highlight the passion behind our purpose.
Let’s show our community what makes ACPSD such a special place to work, one story at a time.
Submit here: Why I work for ACPSD
#WhyIWorkACPSD

Spring break is in full swing, and we hope our incredible staff are enjoying some well-deserved time to relax, recharge, and maybe even hit the golf course!
Whether you're soaking up the sunshine, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying a slower pace, this time is yours and you’ve earned it.
We’re already looking forward to welcoming everyone back on April 13, 2026, refreshed and ready to finish the year strong together.
Enjoy every moment, you shine bright all year long, and this week is no exception!









As we march into Spring Break and step into the 4th quarter, we want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible dedication of our team. From early mornings to late afternoons, your commitment to our students and schools does not go unnoticed.
This is the home stretch, and we are finishing STRONG because of you!
Enjoy a well-deserved break, recharge, and come back ready to make these final weeks the best yet. We appreciate all that you do to make a difference every single day!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









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!

Behind every great hire is a team dedicated to finding the very best for our schools, and we’re here for YOU!
Hope Mullins | Classified Staffing
Michelle Lorio | Certified Secondary & Coaches
Ashley Watson | Certified Elementary & District Staffing
Whether you're just starting your career or looking for your next opportunity, our team is ready to connect you with the perfect fit right here in Aiken County Public Schools.
Reach out today, we can’t wait to help you find your place on our team!

Following our recent Stars of Education Celebration, we are reminded just how bright our district truly shines.
Each day, our staff members go above and beyond, serving with heart, leading with purpose, and making a lasting impact on our students and community. From the classroom to behind the scenes, it takes every one of our shining stars to make moments like this celebration so meaningful.
We are grateful to be part of a team filled with such dedication, excellence, and care. Our district is stronger because of YOU.
Keep shining!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









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!

They say at the end of every rainbow there’s a pot of gold; but in Aiken County, the real treasure is our incredible staff.
From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices, and every space in between, our employees bring heart, dedication, and joy to the work of serving students each day. Our schools are places where learning thrives and relationships shine because of you.
So today we’re doing a little jig of gratitude and counting our lucky stars because we are truly lucky to have a team like you. Here’s to the people who go above and beyond, bring sunshine on cloudy days, and help our students chase their dreams all the way over the rainbow.
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









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

Think About it Thursday | Celebrate Employee Appreciation Day with Special Savings!
Whether you’re planning a getaway, staying local, or just looking for everyday savings, TicketsatWork has something for everyone.
With new deals added weekly, it’s your go to resource for discounts on products, services, and experiences.
Getting started is easy and free! Visit www.ticketsatwork.com/tickets/ and use our company code found in our Employee Relations newsletter to enroll and start saving on travel, entertainment, online shopping, financial services, and more!
