Think About It Thursday: Your Next Opportunity Starts Here!

Thinking about a career in education? ACPSD Adult Education is here to help you take the next step!

Our Adult Education location offers ParaPathways exams for just $59! Whether you're ready to begin your journey in education or looking to advance your career, we're here to help you move forward.

When: Monday–Tuesday, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Cost: $59
Call: 803-663-4920


Call today to learn more and take the next step toward your future!

Your future is worth investing in and we're cheering you on every step of the way!

about 22 hours ago, Human Resources
ParaPathways Exam Flyer with information on how to call and set up the exam at the Aiken County Adult Education Center

SHINE | A Little Chill, A LOT of Excellence!

There’s a chill in the air, but there’s certainly NO chill in the excellence happening across ACPSD!

From dedicated teachers and supportive staff to inspiring school leaders, our employees continue to bring the warmth, passion, and commitment that make a difference for our students every single day. Whether it’s going the extra mile, creating meaningful connections, or finding new ways to help students succeed, our ACPSD family continues to SHINE.

This week, we’re celebrating the people who keep the excellence going and make ACPSD a special place to learn, work, and grow.

If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out

#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates

5 days ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, October 18, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Traci Nelson	 Aiken Elementary School Librarian	 Mrs. Nelson is very dedicated to her work; encouraging students to cultivate their interest in reading and building strength in technology and exploration, such as the 3d printer and robotics or running our student involved news flash. As a coworker and as a parent I appreciate the extra lengths she goes for our students. 	 Jennifer Farrer
Monica Mazzell Health & Nursing Services Coordinator of Nursing	 Mrs. Mazzell has been the most supportive, and kind supervisor. She is always available to answer questions or give guidance on a concern. She is quick to resolve problems, and always professional. She cares deeply about the health and well being of our students and ensuring our schools are safe and healthy. 	 Jennifer Farrer
Nena McConnell	 Redcliffe Elementary	 Art Teacher Ms. Mak has truly become such a bright light at RES! Our students are always so excited to go to art and look forward to seeing what new, fun, and creative projects she has planned. She has an incredible way of keeping students eager to create. Ms. Mak is also one of the kindest and most genuine people to work with. She is always cracking jokes, sharing a smile, and finding a way to make our days a little brighter. Her positive energy and caring spirit have made such a wonderful impact to RES.
Semetrius Dixon	 District Office Custodian Semetrius has done such a great job as our newest Custodian alongside Scott.  She is a ray of sunshine and always does her best to give us a clean place to work.  We are so happy that she has joined our team.
Lilly Jenkins	 LBC Middle School	 ELA Teacher Ms. Jenkins is an amazing teacher! She is always working hard to reach her students and keep then engaged in learning.  Ms. Jenkins is always encouraging students, the staff and she has a smile even on the hard days!  LBC is a better place because of her.
Zack Calhoun	 Human Resources Employee Relations HR Associate	 We are always so grateful for the support Zack offers the Communications Team. Thank you for being the best coworker, Zack! Communications
Stephanie Palmer	 Midland Valley High Student Information Clerk Shout out to Stephanie! She is someone I can truly count on. She always steps in wherever she is needed and is willing to help others while learning how all the different parts of our school work. Stephanie builds meaningful relationships with our students, and it’s obvious they trust her by the number of students who stop her in the halls just to talk. We are lucky to have her!
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine

Feature Friday | Employee of the Month September 2026!

Congratulations to Miranda Brooks, District Office Receptionist, on being recognized as our September 2026 Employee of the Month!

Miranda consistently goes above and beyond to create a warm and welcoming environment for employees, students, families, and visitors. Her kindness, professionalism, and positive attitude make a lasting impression on everyone she meets.

Join us in congratulating Miranda and thanking her for the exceptional service, positivity, and dedication she brings to Aiken County Public Schools each day!

7 days ago, Human Resources
Ms. Miranda Brooks holding an employee of the month award.
Team Member Tuesday| Meet Ashley Watson, our Talent Development Coordinator!

Ashley helps ensure our elementary schools and district office are staffed with amazing certified educators, while also being the data guru behind our retention efforts. She’s always looking for ways to keep our best and brightest right here in ACPSD!

With a servant’s heart, Ashley loves supporting others and making a difference. Her dedication helps strengthen our schools and supports the people who make a difference for students every day.

FUN FACT: Ashley is a football fan through and through! In the fall, you can find her cheering on her Aiken Hornets and Carolina Gamecocks!

Join us in celebrating Ashley and the heart she brings to ACPSD!
10 days ago, Human Resources
Ashley Watson | Talent Development Coordinator

SHINE | Celebrating Our Principals!

Fall Break may have been a chance for our staff to slow down, recharge, and enjoy some well-deserved time away, but behind the scenes, our principals were hard at work preparing to welcome everyone back!

From planning and organizing to making sure schools were ready for a fresh start, our principals spent part of their break getting things in place so our staff and students could return to a warm, welcoming, and ready-to-learn environment.

To our ACPSD principals: thank you for the work you do, even when the halls are quiet. Your leadership, dedication, and commitment to our schools shine every day.

And to all of our ACPSD employees, we hope you had a wonderful Fall Break and are feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready for the second half of the semester! We’re so glad to have you back.

This week, we SHINE a little brighter for our principals!

If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates

12 days ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, October 11, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Dr. Devone McKie	 Warrenville Elementary Principal	 Dr. McKie, thank you for being such a wonderful host this week for Intercession! We truly enjoyed our time at Warrenville Elementary and are so grateful for your warm welcome and support. Your care helped make this a fun and meaningful week of learning and growth. Thank you for all you do to make everyone feel welcomed and supported!	 Your, AES Friends
Kippy Kelly	 J.D. Lever Elementary	 Principal Ms. Kelly is a wonderful leader. She is welcoming, consistent, and encouraging to all of her faculty and staff members, and has been extra kind and welcoming to those of us newbies to her school. Ms. Kelly goes above and beyond to inform, communicate, and answer questions. I am blessed to a part of a wonderful school with such a wonderful leader!	 Kim Aycock
Sheldon Higgenbottom	 Midland Valley High Principal Mr. Higgenbottom is an amazing leader. He is one of those people who encourage those around him and makes people better because of his presence. He always goes the extra mile. Thank you for all that you do!
Kristie Brooks 	 Aiken Elementary  Principal	 A great leader and always smiling. Hardworking and dedicated to her staff and students.
Lindsey Hager	 Mossy Creek Elementary Principal  Ms. Hager is absolutely rocking it as the principal at Mossy Creek! She continues to maintain a positive attitude, even during challenging times, and works incredibly hard to support all of her students and staff with love and care. Thank you, Ms. Hager, for your service to your school and to all of the students in your community. Your hard work, dedication, and positive spirit do not go unnoticed. We truly appreciate all that you do!
Rasheem Neloms	 Wagener-Salley High Principal Shoutout to Principal Rasheem Neloms for his dedication to Wagener-Salley! He puts in countless hours making sure our school is taken care of and running smoothly. His proactive leadership was especially appreciated as we worked together to develop a clear plan to help the teachers I support stay on track, organized, and prepared well ahead of meetings. Thank you for listening and your willingness to help!	 Teresa Johnson - Partner Teacher
Carla Dupert	 Leavelle McCampbell Middle  Principal SHOUT-OUT TO OUR NEW PRINCIPAL MS. DUPERT!  What an AWESOME start to the school year!  We are so excited to have you leading our LMMS Rocks! Your dedication, positive energy, and leadership are already making a difference. Thank you for helping make the beginning of this school year so successful! We’re looking forward to an amazing year ahead! 	 Hastings
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine

SHINE | A Little Appreciation During Fall Break!

As we wrap up the first quarter and enjoy Fall Break, we want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible people who make Aiken County Public Schools shine!

From our classrooms to our cafeterias, buses, offices, and beyond, every team member plays an important role in making a difference in the lives of our students each and every day.
Thank you for your dedication, your heart, and the countless ways you show up for our students, families, and one another.

During Fall Break, we hope you take time to rest, recharge, enjoy the beauty of the season, and spend quality time with the people who matter most. You deserve it!
Thank you for all you do. You make ACPSD shine!

If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out

#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates

19 days ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, October 4, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Latrece Quattlebaum	 Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning Division of Instruction	 Dr. Quattlebaum came into this position ready to make a difference. She consistently leads with a servant’s heart, helping each of us grow while fostering a culture of support and inclusion. I love her motto: “Teaching with Purpose. Leading with Coherence. Inspiring Endless Possibilities.” Her dedication to faculty, staff, coaches, students, and the Aiken County community is evident in all she does. Thank you, Dr. Quattlebaum, for your leadership and commitment to our success!	 Dr. AlTricia Larke
Shawanna Thalley	 XSEL Behavior Interventionist	 Mrs. Thalley has been a huge support to Byrd. She is very responsive and patient as she listens to our concerns. The feedback she provides is very thorough and she follows up in a timely manner. She has quickly built relationships with our admin team and the teachers that she is supporting. We appreciate the feedback she gives as it can often be difficult to deliver, but she does it in this most professional way. Thank you!	 Christen Sikes
Danielle Abernathy	 J.D. Lever Elementary	 Literacy Coach Ms. Abernathy has been doing an amazing job hosting our LETRS training. Her prior knowledge and experience make it a great experience for the participants. Her knowledge of our district policies, which she is able to integrate into the training, is also much appreciated. Thank you for being engaging and practical. We appreciate you sharing your expertise in such a meaningful way. Keep up the amazing training, Ms. Abernathy!
Meghan Barrett	 North Augusta Middle  Band Teacher Shout-out to our amazing Band Director, Mrs. Barrett, for her dedication to helping students grow and succeed! She teaches multiple levels of band and inspires students to go from having little or no musical experience to becoming confident musicians in Advanced Band. She gives so much to our school community, always supporting assemblies, pep rallies, and special events with our talented band. We are so fortunate to have her at NAMS! Sarah Smith
Amanda Waymer	 Aiken Scholars Academy	 Science Teacher Amanda Waymer is an exceptional educator whose science and engineering expertise, creativity, and unwavering dedication challenge every student to achieve their personal best. She creates innovative learning experiences for students and demonstrates a masterful ability to develop students’ metacognitive skills, empowering them to think deeply about how they learn, make meaningful connections between STEM and the world around them.
Greg Taylor	 Maintenance Department Grounds Maintenance He and his team always take such great care of us here at Millbrook! What I appreciate most is that he genuinely cares about the work they do and he asks for feedback, listens, and is always receptive to ways they can make things even better. He takes tremendous pride in his work, works incredibly hard, and it shows every time you pull onto our campus. He and his guys are absolutely fantastic, and we are so thankful for all they do to keep Millbrook looking its best!
Dustin Fowler	 Aiken iNNOVATE Virtual Learning Coordinator	 Dustin works tirelessly every day to benefit many. He leads our iNNOVATE staff, students, and families, as well as ACVA, while spearheading an initiative to develop courses rooted in academic integrity. At the same time, he dives into data to identify ways to meet student needs, organizes interventions and celebrations, and juggles the daily responsibilities of administration. Through it all, he leads with vision, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to student success.	 Erika Smith
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
October 2 is School Custodian Appreciation Day!

From early mornings to late evenings, our custodial teams work tirelessly to create environments where students can learn and thrive. Thank you for your dedication, commitment, and care for our schools. We appreciate all that you do!
21 days ago, Emily Myers
school custodian appreciation day poster

ACPSD IS HIRING BUS DRIVERS!

Do you enjoy helping students and making a difference in your community? Aiken County Public Schools is looking for dedicated individuals to join our Transportation team!

No experience? No problem! No experience is required, and training will be provided.

When: Tuesday, October 6, 2026 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Where: Transportation Office, 2457 Jefferson Davis Highway, Warrenville, SC 29851

Come prepared for an interview and bring your résumé with reference contact information. Interviews will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pre-registration is highly recommended for a faster check-in, but walk-ins are welcome!

Scan the QR code on the flyer or click here to register.

Questions? Contact Hope Mullins at hmullins@acpsd.net or Erin Beck at ebeck@acpsd.net.

Help us get students where they need to go. Join the ACPSD Transportation team!

24 days ago, Human Resources
Bus Driver Recruitment Event Flyer | October 6, 2026. 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Jefferson Davis Highway.
Team Member Tuesday | Erin Beck - Classified Staffing & Recruitment Specialist

Erin partners with Hope Mullins to recruit and staff support positions across our Elementary Schools and District Office. One of her favorite parts of the job is building relationships with applicants and helping them discover opportunities where they can thrive in Aiken County Public Schools.

Fun Fact: Erin is a huge volleyball fan and loves watching every game she can!
24 days ago, Human Resources
Erin Beck - Classified Specialist
Team Member Tuesday | Meet Emily Myers, our HRIS Specialist!

Emily manages all HR systems, reporting, and data integrity while supporting efficient processes across Human Resources. She supports not only our Human Resources staff, but all employees across the district.

Fun Fact- Emily has hiked to the top of one of the country’s biggest and tallest waterfalls, Upper Yosemite Falls, in California.

What I enjoy most about my job is the challenge of solving complex problems and finding innovative ways to improve systems and processes.
about 1 month ago, Human Resources
Emily Myers HRIS Specialist

SHINE | SHINING THROUGH THE FIRST QUARTER

The first quarter is coming to a close, and before we head into Fall Break, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the people who made these first weeks of school shine.

Across Aiken County Public Schools, our employees have welcomed students, built relationships, solved problems, celebrated successes, and shown up day after day with heart, purpose, and a commitment to serving others.

To every teacher, bus driver, custodian, cafeteria team member, administrator, office professional, instructional support staff member, and employee behind the scenes:
Thank you for being the light that helps our schools shine.

If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out!

SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates

about 1 month ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, September 20, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Timothy Bolton	 JD Lever Elementary	 Special Education Aide Mr. Bolton is truly amazing. He works so well with the students and has built great relationships with the students and their families. His patience is beyond belief, and he is truly an asset to the JD Lever family. We are so proud of him!!!	 Kippy Kelly and Miranda Doolittle
Kasey Carpenter	 North Augusta Middle Social Studies Teacher Ms. Carpenter is a rock star! As a teacher, she creates amazing student engagement through purposeful small-group learning and a classroom where students thrive! Beyond the classroom, she serves as our yearbook coordinator and cheer coach. Her cheer squad is phenomenal - talented, dedicated, and performing far beyond the middle school level. She is truly a major asset to NAMS and we are blessed to have her!	 Sarah Smith
Dakota Abrams & Cody Clark Network Technician	 Technology Department	 Thanks for all you do for NAMS! We appreciate all that you do each and every day! 	 Miss Abney (NAMS Secretary)
Commander Goldschmidt Silver Bluff High JROTC Instructor	 Commander is amazing! He loves the kids and teaches them by example, the importance of serving others, supporting others, hard work, and the importance of teamwork. He recently took over the SBHS swim team as the coach, after the hired coach quit at the beginning of the season. Without Commander the swim team would be canceled for the remainder of the season. He has stepped up, showed up, encouraged, and taught these kids what it means to really care and serve! Thank you Commander!	 Kathleen Day
Lila Gaumer	 Gloverville Elementary	 School Librarian Gloverville is so blessed to have Mrs. Gaumer as our librarian! Not only does she instill a love for reading in so many of our students but she is kind and generous as well. I am so thankful for Mrs. Gaumer and all she does for the people in the school.
Cristine Raines	 Jefferson Elementary	 Assistant Principal Shout-out to our AP, Cristine Raines! She works harder than anyone I know and gives so much of herself to our students, teachers, and school. She leads with a genuine heart, always listens, always supports, and somehow makes each of us feel seen and valued. She pushes us to be our best and has a way of making you feel supported even on the hard days. And hearing those heels and keys coming down the hallway? You can’t help but smile! We are truly blessed to have her!
Maeshell Gordon	 New Ellenton Middle Special Education Teacher Mrs. Gordon brings forth a balance of structure, creativity, and active learning, to the classroom. Her energy stays high and in good spirits, keeping her students engaged in their daily lessons. There is never a dull moment, as every experience is authentic and memorable. New Ellenton Middle school is very blessed to have her expertise as an addition.
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine

Feature Friday | Employee of the Month – August 2026

Congratulations to Jessica Priest of Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle/High School on being recognized as Employee of the Month!

Mrs. Priest’s dedication to student success, innovative instruction, and leadership extends far beyond her classroom. She is a valued teacher, colleague, and leader who continually makes a positive impact on students and educators alike.

Join us in congratulating Mrs. Priest and thanking her for the dedication, leadership, and excellence she brings to our schools each day!

about 1 month ago, Human Resources
Ms. Priest holding an employee of the month award.

Team Member Tuesday | Meet Dr. Whitney Koeppen, our new Educator Effectiveness Coordinator, here at ACPSD!

As Educator Effectiveness Coordinator, Dr. Koeppen leads our Induction and Mentoring program for new teachers and supports principals with ADEPT, our state's evaluation system. 

Dr. Koeppen brings a wealth of knowledge to this new position as she has over 20 years' experience in education.  Her tenured career has had her serving as a teacher, an instructional coach, an assistant principal, a district support specialist, and a principal. This is her third year with ACPSD.  She served previously in ACPSD as the Teaching and Learning Support Specialist for all middle and high school instructional coaches. 

What does Dr. K love about her job? " ACPSD is amazing.  I love playing a small part in helping administrators and teachers continue to provide high-quality education to ALL of our students."

about 1 month ago, Human Resources
Smiling lady in a green jacket.

SHINE | A Little More Kindness. A Little More Light.

There’s something special about people who simply show up, with a smile, a helping hand, an encouraging word, or a heart ready to serve.

Across Aiken County Public Schools, our employees do just that every day. They teach. They lead. They encourage. They solve problems. They care for others. And, in ways both big and small, they make a difference.

Today, we’re celebrating the people who bring their best to our students, our schools, and our community.

Because the world can always use a little more kindness, a little more grace, and a little more light.

If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! SHINE Staff Shout Out
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates

about 1 month ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, September 13, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Emily Mims	 Aiken High  Dance Teacher	 Even from far away we can see what you are doing for Dance and the Arts in our district. I love watching your programs come to life and dreams of dance being fulfilled for so many students. You are destined for this work and are doing a great job. Please continue to grow and expand!	 Anonymous
Christine Walcott	 New Ellenton Middle  Science Teacher Mrs. Walcott is beyond a science teacher, but a shining light of knowledge, whose energy, enthusiasm, excitement for learning- is evident all day every day with her students. She's forever engaging her students in effective learning/ teaching, and hands- on activities. New Ellenton Middle, is blessed for her expertise, and exceptional delivery of learning.
Sarah Rogers	 Gloverville Elementary Art Teacher Mrs. Rogers is an incredible artist and teacher! We are so lucky to have such a kind and dedicated artist teaching our students about art!! She puts so much thought and effort into her art activities for our students. She is truly an inspiring difference-maker at Gloverville. <3
Kiley Mixon 	 Clearwater Elementary 4K Instructional Aide	 Ms. Mixon always has the BEST positive spirit and such a welcoming personality! Our students love her, our parents appreciate her, and she truly has a way of making everyone feel welcomed. Thank you for helping make Clearwater feel like home, Ms. Mixon! 	 Mariah Clay
DeAnn Coursey	 North Aiken Elementary Literacy Coach	 A special shout-out to DeAnn Coursey, our amazing Instructional Coach! For over a decade, Coursey has shared her passion and expertise with North Aiken. From modeling lessons and planning shoulder-to-shoulder with teachers to supporting PLCs and helping us navigate standards and indicators, she is always there. Coursey builds genuine relationships, is dependable, and makes an impact far beyond the classroom. We are grateful for all she does! Your North Aiken Family
Olivia Spivey	 Byrd Elementary	 Special Education Teacher Ms. Spivey is a phenomenal SPED teacher! Her genuine desire to see her students succeed in every way is obvious in everything she does, from daily interactions to behavior management to goal setting.  The students on her caseload have taken to her so quickly, and the positive relationships she is building with them mean so much.  We are so grateful to have her at Byrd!
Layne Stalvey   Paul Knox Middle  Safety Monitor Aide	 Layne is one of the rock stars of Paul Knox. She is such an important part of the team. Her tireless effort at keeping the students safe does not go unnoticed.
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine

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!

about 2 months ago, Human Resources
Picture of a female smiling.

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

about 2 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, September 6, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Officer Bryan	 Leavelle McCampbell Middle School Resource Officer Shout-Out to Our SRO! A huge shout-out to our amazing School Resource Officer! Thank you for keeping our students and staff safe, being there when we need you, and helping make our school a better place every day. We appreciate your dedication, support, and all that you do for our LMMS family! Thank you for being part of the Rocks family!	 Office Staff
April Wallace	 Paul Knox Middle  Speech Pathologist To start, Mrs. Wallace is always wearing a smile when she is in our building. Today, I had the privilege of watching her work with two students.  She made them each feel comfortable and gave them her undivided attention.  It is clear that she truly cares about each individual student, their needs, and how she can help them succeed.  We are SO fortunate to have her at PK and in Aiken County!	 Ms. Faircloth
Christen Sikes	 Byrd Elementary Assistant Principal	 Ms. Sikes is an amazing assistant principal, and we are so lucky to have her serving in Aiken County! I truly appreciate who she is as a colleague. She is genuine and creative, while always bringing great ideas to the table. She is incredibly efficient and effective in her work. Ms. Sikes works hard to care for both students and staff She takes the time to understand and support them while also ensuring their safety and well-being. Ms. Sikes does her job with excellence, compassion, and grace!  Nikki Steelman
Tammy Wikander	 Clearwater Elementary	 4K Teacher Your willingness to step in and help others—often at a moment’s notice—does not go unnoticed! You are always ready to lend a hand, support a teammate, and do whatever it takes to make our school better. In the classroom, you are consistent, fair, and incredibly patient. Most importantly, your genuine love for your students shines through in everything you do. You believe in them every day. Thank you for being someone others can always count on and for making Clearwater a brighter place!
Shanell Williams	 Redcliffe Elementary  4K Instructional Aide	 She is truly a light in Pre-K! She cares deeply for every student, always stepping in with patience, love, and encouragement. Her positive spirit, dedication, and willingness to help make our classroom better and our entire Pre-K team stronger. We are so thankful for her!  4K Team
Julie Cruse	 Oakwood Windsor Elementary Special Education Teacher Julie loves her students BIG!! She is always willing to help out teachers, students and staff! While she maintains a humble presence, her experience and knowledge as a special education teacher is unmatched and demonstrated daily. It is a privilege to work with her. Keep shining bright, Julie!!
Dr. Trina Smith	 Wagener-Salley High Assistant Principal Shoutout to Dr. Trina Smith for her unwavering support of Special Programs at Wagener-Salley High School. As our appointed administrator for all meetings and our school’s 504 coordinator, she consistently shows up, leads with confidence, and never backs away from difficult situations. She is always willing to learn, grow, and support both students and staff. We are truly grateful for her dedication!	 Teresa Johnson - Partner Teacher
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
Team Member Tuesday | Meet Samantha Winn, one of our Multimedia Communications Specialists!

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!
about 2 months ago, Human Resources
Samantha Winn - Communications

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

about 2 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, August 30, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Kinsley Hall	 New Ellenton Middle ELA Teacher Teacher Shout-Out A huge shout-out to Kinsley Hall for always going above and beyond for her students!  Your dedication, patience, and genuine love and care do not go unnoticed. You treat your students with the same compassion and care as if they were your own, and that is truly something special. Thank you for creating a safe, loving, and supportive environment where your students feel valued and cared for. Teachers like you make such a lasting difference! 	 Aiye
Ashlee O'Neal and Tabatha Younts	 Division of Instruction Technology Implementation Support Specialist  Ashlee and Tabatha are amazing! As a new member of the Instructional Technology team, I’m grateful for how patiently and efficiently they welcomed me and helped me get up to speed, all while managing the many technology challenges that come with the start of school. They also coordinated courses, food options, and guest instructors for our July 14 District-Wide PD. They are truly unsung heroes who keep our district’s instructional technology running every day.	 KG
Emily Myers	 Human Resources  HRIS Specialist	 Emily took a problem and created a solution that has been a road block for several years. I appreciate her innovation and dedication to seek long term sustainable solutions by being proactive. She has a can do attitude. Emily is a huge asset to our team!	 AW
Amy Storey	 Educational Technology  Network Security Administrator	 Ms. Amy Storey went above and beyond to help us troubleshoot the macros, settings, and permissions needed to get Homebound’s interactive game up and running for our coordinator meeting. Ms. Storey spent several hours working through the issues and even stopped by the morning of the meeting to make sure everything was working correctly. I truly appreciate the time, patience, and extra effort she put in to ensure our game was a success!	 The Medical Homebound Department
Ni'Jae Jerry	 Busbee Elementary Special Education Aide/Bus Driver We had a medical emergency while buses were lining up for dismissal. When Mr. Jerry saw the emergency taking place, he quickly secured his bus, exited, and immediately ran over to assist. His quick response and willingness to help demonstrated great awareness, teamwork, and concern for the safety and well-being of everyone involved. Kristy Sanchez
Meriam Holloway	 Aiken Elementary 5th Grade Teacher Ms. Holloway is an amazing fifth-grade teacher who cares deeply about her students and their well-being. She holds high expectations and works tirelessly to ensure students reach mastery in ELA. This year, she has made a special effort to focus on the positives, recognizing and celebrating students through positive office referrals. We love having you at AES and are grateful for your dedication and expertise, Ms. Holloway!
Heather Satoh	 Midland Valley High  Multilingual Learner Teacher Thank you for the awesome presentation. I loved your Japanese lesson. It was a great way to show empathy for the ML students.
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
Team Member Tuesday | Meet Kerri Solomon, our Classified Human Resources Associate for Application & Employee Support!

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!!
about 2 months ago, Human Resources
Kerri Solomon, HR Associate

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

2 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, August 23, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Heather Goodwin	 Byrd Elementary School  Special Education Clerk	 A big shout-out to our incredible SPED Clerk Heather Goodwin for everything you do behind the scenes to keep our Special Education department running smoothly! Your organization, dedication, and willingness to help make a difference every single day. Thank you for your hard work, your positive attitude, and for always supporting our students, staff, and families with care and compassion. We appreciate you more than you know!
Anna Virella	 Center for Innovative Learning Social Studies Teacher	 As a first year teacher, Mrs. Virella has done an amazing job building relationships with our students at CIL.  She's a natural-born teacher.  We are blessed to have her compassionate and capable spirit with us.
Mary Williams Clearwater Elementary Instructional Aide	 Thank you for always being willing to lend a helping hand, offering support whenever it's needed, and encouraging those around you. Your positive attitude, teamwork, and kindness make a difference every single day at Clearwater.
Missy Ferraro	 Aiken Elementary School 	 2nd Grade Teacher Ms. Ferraro works tirelessly to support her students. She is flexible and dedicated. She always strives to meet each student's individual needs. Ms. Ferraro is a true team player and is always willing to lend a helping hand. She brings a positive attitude to everything she does. Even on the most challenging days, she greets others with a smile. We are incredibly grateful for Ms. Ferraro, her unwavering positivity, and her hard work. Thank you for all that you do, and thank you for shining!
Area 3  Transportation Department  Bus Drivers and Monitors	 Midland Valley 	I just want to give a huge shout out to our bus drivers and monitors for Area 3.  With the number of routes that do not have a permanent driver daily, along with other drivers being out, these guys have gone over and beyond to make sure all routes have been covered as well as each and every bus rider was picked up and dropped off to school each day. Thank you for all you do!!
Susan Carpenter	 North Augusta Middle School	 Student Information Clerk Mrs. Carpenter has been an amazing support to the CIL staff!  We are thankful for her.
Crystal Hadden	 Highland Springs Middle School Principal Crystal has done an incredible job stepping in to her role as principal. She is positive and encouraging to her staff, and cares for the well being of her students. We are grateful to have her as principal!	 Abby Henry
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine