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!

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!

Save the Date!
New to the District? We can’t wait to welcome you!
Join us for New Employee Orientation with ACPSD:
📍 Location: Aiken High School
📆 Date: July 7, 2026
⏰ Time: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM (New Start Time)
💻IGNITE
Come get connected, informed, and ready for a great year ahead. We’re excited to have you on the team!

School’s out, but we’re still hiring! ACPSD is looking for great people—could that be you? Apply today!

The first week of summer break doesn’t mean the spotlight stops shining!
While students and teachers are enjoying a well-earned break, we want to recognize our incredible year-round employees who keep ACPSD running smoothly behind the scenes.
Your hard work, dedication, and commitment ensure our schools stay operational and ready for another successful school year. Thank you for all you do to prepare for the year ahead!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









Think About it Thursday | June's Employee Perk
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!

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.

Do you have a passion for supporting students with unique learning needs?
- Bachelor’s degree required
- Alternative certification pathways available
- Make a meaningful impact every day
If you have a heart to serve, we want to hear from you!
- Apply now and start your career in special education.

Save the Date!
New to the District? We can’t wait to welcome you!
Join us for New Employee Orientation with ACPSD:
📍 Location: Aiken High School
📆 Date: July 7, 2026
⏰ Time: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Come get connected, informed, and ready for a great year ahead. We’re excited to have you on the team!

Graduation has commenced, but the celebration isn’t over!
As we close out the 2025–2026 school year, ACPSD is still shining a light on our exceptional employees who go above and beyond for our students every day.
Your dedication, passion, and commitment help make our schools stronger and our future brighter. Thank you for all that you do!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









Ready to become a teacher? Teaching Pathways is our teacher pipeline program for high school students, ACPSD employees, district graduates, and community members. Gain support and build your career through partnerships with USC Aiken, Aiken Tech, and more.

Aiken County Public School District is seeking dedicated teachers and instructional aides for our upcoming summer session.
If you're passionate about supporting student success and making a difference, we encourage you to apply!
✅ How to Apply:
Please log into SchoolSpring and submit your internal application today.
Let’s work together to create a strong and engaging summer learning experience for our students!

As we head into Memorial Day weekend, we pause to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
At the same time, it’s an exciting milestone season across ACPSD graduation week is here!
Congratulations to the Class of 2026 as they prepare to walk across the stage and begin their next chapter.
As we wrap up the 2025–2026 school year, we want to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to our incredible employees. Your dedication, passion, and commitment to student success make all the difference every single day.
Wishing our ACPSD family a safe, restful, and meaningful holiday weekend!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









Register Your Student for the 2026-27 School Year
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 #ReturningStudentRegistration #SouthCarolinaSchoolRegistration #AikenSchoolRegistration
