Team Member Tuesday| Meet Kayla Jordan, our Employee Relations Coordinator here at ACPSD!
Kayla plays a vital role behind the scenes—managing our employee relations program, supporting leave processes, and organizing some of our favorite staff recognition events throughout the year.
What does she love most about her role? “I love my job because I get to help people every day, whether it’s solving a problem, answering a tricky question, or just being someone you can count on. HR definitely keeps me on my toes, and I genuinely enjoy the challenge (and the occasional curveball). There’s something really rewarding about supporting all of you. It’s never boring, always meaningful, and sometimes even fun!"
Kayla finds joy in supporting our staff—and we’re lucky to have her as part of the team!

SHINE Spotlight: Working 9 to 5
This Labor Day, we're celebrating the people who make a difference day in and day out.
From the classroom to the front office, from the cafeteria to the bus, from the maintenance team to the district office; every role matters, and every person makes a difference.
Today, we’re giving a special SHINE to these ACPSD team members who bring dedication, heart, and a commitment to serving others to their work each day.
Because great schools aren't built by one person. They're built by people who show up, pitch in, care deeply, and keep things moving.
Thank you for all the ways you work, serve, support, and SHINE!
Happy Labor Day to our incredible ACPSD team!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









Sam helps cover Aiken County Public Schools with photos, videos, social media posts and more. She also coordinates news coverage of our schools! Sam loves seeing students, teachers and staff succeed in the classroom and sharing these successes with our community.
Fun fact: Sam won a collegiate national championship in 2021 at the University of South Carolina with the Carolina Dance Team!

SHINE Spotlight: Coat of Many Colors
Just like a quilt made from many different pieces, Aiken County Public Schools is made stronger by the many people who serve our students, families, schools, and community.
Today, we’re celebrating these incredible team members who each bring their own unique talents, dedication, and heart to ACPSD.
Different roles. Different strengths. Different stories. One team. One purpose.
Join us in giving a little extra SHINE to this week’s honorees!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









I work alongside Hope Mullins and Erin Beck to welcome and onboard all new classified staff hires. I am the go-to support for applicants who might face challenges during the application process.
I truly love supporting others while being a part of a such a great team.
I feel honored to be one of the first contacts for a new employee. It is important to me that my level of support be engaging, supportive, and kind as it is the first experience they will have within our school district.
Fun fact: I love watching women's basketball. Go gamecocks!!

Bringing the Heat at ACPSD
The temperatures may be rising, but our staff brings the real heat every single day!
From welcoming students and families to going above and beyond in their work, our team continues to make ACPSD an incredible place to learn, grow, and succeed.
It's no surprise that ACPSD was recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best Employers by State. Our people are the heart of everything we do, and their passion, dedication, and excellence shine brighter than the summer sun.
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









The countdown to this year's STARS of Public Education has officially begun!
Our incredible educators, staff, and community members go above and beyond every day to make a difference in the lives of our students, and we're excited to share a special look at the event that celebrates them.
Watch the video on YouTube at https://youtu.be/9p019WKU-Tw .
District and School leadership have begun their search for this year's honorees through a comprehensive nomination process. This year's stars are out there, and we cannot wait to recognize them!
#ACPSD #StarsOfPublicEducation #ACPSDCelebrates #PublicEducation
Team Member Tuesday | Meet Brittany Parker, our Certified Human Resources Associate for Application & Employee Support!
Brittany helps welcome new employees by guiding them through the hiring and onboarding process, answering application questions, assisting with employment paperwork, and making sure they have everything they need for a successful start with ACPSD.
Fun fact: Outside of work, Brittany is a cheer coach who loves mentoring young athletes and helping them build confidence, teamwork, and school spirit.
I love my job because I get the opportunity to support the people who take care of our little people every day. Our students are our future, and while I may work behind the scenes, I know that helping our employees have a smooth and positive experience allows them to focus on what matters most our children. Being able to serve others and make a difference, even in a small way, is what makes this work so rewarding.

Almost 100 Shoutouts and Counting!
Since the beginning of the school year, we have received nearly 100 employee shoutouts across ACPSD!
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to recognize a coworker for their hard work, dedication, and positive impact. Your words of encouragement help build a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and celebrated.
We are proud to shine a light on the amazing people who make ACPSD such a special place to work and learn. Keep the shoutouts coming and continue recognizing the difference your colleagues make every day!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









Before Open Enrollment begins, take a few minutes to review and update your information.
✅ Log in to MyBenefits at peba.sc.gov to review your current PEBA insurance coverage.
✅ Check and update your life insurance beneficiaries.
✅ Verify your contact information, including your address, phone number, and email address.
Quick Facts:
• Contact information updates and beneficiary changes can be made anytime and are not considered Open Enrollment transactions.
• Any insurance changes made during Open Enrollment will take effect January 1, 2027.
Questions? Contact your Benefits Expert:
Deloris Brown (Classified Employees) – dbrown@acpsd.net
Kimberly Hickson-Corbitt (Certified Employees) – kcorbitt@acpsd.net
#ACPSD #BenefitsEnrollment #OpenEnrollment2026 #EmployeeBenefits

Mark your calendars!
Wednesday, August 19th will be the first early dismissal day of the 2026–27 school year!
Students will be dismissed early while our teachers and staff use the afternoon for professional development, collaboration, and additional training to support student success.
Get a glimpse into what professional development looks like for our staff here at Aiken County by watching the video on YouTube at:https://youtu.be/RJ6SEXp8wUk .

Say hello to Zack Calhoun, our Employee Relations Associate here at ACPSD! Zack is one of the friendly faces behind the scenes, working to support employees and leaders across the district. Whether he's answering questions or helping with staff celebrations, Zack brings care and clarity to everything he does.
What does he enjoy most about the job? “I love being able to help others. Whether it’s offering support, providing answers, or just being there when someone needs a hand—it’s all about making a positive difference for the people I work with.”
Zack’s approachability and dedication make a real difference—and we’re grateful to have him on the team!
Shining Bright at ACPSD!
This week, we're recognizing the incredible spirit of teamwork and support shown throughout our organization.
Success is not just about what we accomplish individually. It's about how we lift each other up along the way. Over the past few weeks, we've seen employees step up to help colleagues, offer encouragement, share knowledge, and create an environment where everyone can thrive.
Thank you for your hard work, your kindness, and your commitment to supporting one another. Your actions make a difference every day, and we're proud to have such an amazing team.
When we support each other, we all shine brighter.
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









Feature Friday | Employee of the Month – July 2026
Congratulations to Rodrequez Dunbar, SCHS Job Coach at Wagener Salley High School!
Mr. Dunbar makes a lasting impact on students both in and beyond the classroom. With patience, compassion, and a genuine commitment to student success, he builds strong relationships and ensures students feel valued and supported. As a football, basketball, and track coach, he also serves as a positive role model, encouraging discipline, accountability, and confidence in his athletes.
Dependable, hardworking, and always willing to step in where needed, Mr. Dunbar demonstrates an outstanding commitment to his students and school community. Thank you, Mr. Dunbar, for all you do to support, encourage, and inspire our students!

Shining Bright at ACPSD!
Today, we celebrate the incredible employees who make ACPSD a place of excellence, growth, and opportunity. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to our students and community do not go unnoticed.
Every day, you go above and beyond, bringing passion, professionalism, and heart to everything you do. Thank you for being the driving force behind our success and for always representing ACPSD with pride.
Because of you, ACPSD continues to shine.
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









What a SHINE-ing start to the 2026-27 school year!
The first week is in the books, and we’re celebrating the incredible employees who made it all possible. From preparing classrooms and campuses to welcoming students with smiles and enthusiasm, your dedication is what helps our schools SHINE every day.
Thank you for your hard work, heart, and commitment to student success. Here's to a bright year ahead filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable moments!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









Welcome Back!
Our Recruitment Team enjoyed visiting schools on the first day, stopping by morning carline, classrooms, cafeterias, and connecting with staff across the building. We had the opportunity to observe first-day procedures, thank our dedicated custodial teams, and warmly welcome our teachers.
The excitement, teamwork, and commitment to student success were on full display. We are grateful for everyone who helped make the first day a success and look forward to an incredible school year ahead!
Welcome back, everyone! #WelcomeBackACPSD










Elementary Special Education Teachers Wanted!
Looking for a district where special education is truly a priority? Join Aiken County Public Schools and discover what makes our Special Education program so special!
✅ Lower Caseloads – Resource positions average 1:25 students, compared to the state ratio of 1:33
✅ Exceptional Support – Ongoing professional development and weekly coaching from district specialists
✅ Abundant Resources – Access to high-quality curricular materials and instructional support
✅ Family-Focused Schools – Be part of close-knit school communities where students, staff, and families thrive together
If you're passionate about helping students reach their full potential and want the support to do your best work, we'd love to have you on our team!
Contact Ashley Watson today!

Membership Monday
Save on the road with an exclusive employee perk!
This Membership Monday, take advantage of 50% OFF a AAA Basic Membership and enjoy benefits like roadside assistance, travel discounts, vehicle services, and more.
- 50% off AAA Basic Membership
- Peace of mind wherever you travel
- Exclusive employee savings
Offer ends July 31, 2026 — don't miss out!
To learn more or join, contact:
David Araya
1041 Edgefield Rd, North Augusta, SC 29860 — inside Walmart
Phone: (803) 426-5168
Email: gdaraya@acg.aaa.com

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!
