SHINE Spotlight
What. A. Week! The first week of school is officially in the books, and our amazing employees didn’t miss a beat! From warm welcomes and smooth routines to big smiles and even bigger hearts, the energy across our schools has been electric!
Whether you helped a kindergartner find their classroom, kept buses rolling, served up delicious meals, or brought the joy into every lesson—YOU made this week unforgettable. Here's to a year full of moments that matter! Let’s keep the momentum going!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
What. A. Week! The first week of school is officially in the books, and our amazing employees didn’t miss a beat! From warm welcomes and smooth routines to big smiles and even bigger hearts, the energy across our schools has been electric!
Whether you helped a kindergartner find their classroom, kept buses rolling, served up delicious meals, or brought the joy into every lesson—YOU made this week unforgettable. Here's to a year full of moments that matter! Let’s keep the momentum going!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
Feel Good Friday | What a Week!
We did it—our first week back to school was a success!
From bright smiles and new routines to high-fives and hallway hugs, this week was full of energy, excitement, and connection.
A HUGE thank you to our amazing:
Teachers for inspiring from day one
Bus drivers for safely starting and ending each day
Staff for keeping everything running smoothly
Parents and guardians for your support and partnership
Students for bringing joy, curiosity, and heart into our schools
Here’s to a strong start to a phenomenal year!
We did it—our first week back to school was a success!
From bright smiles and new routines to high-fives and hallway hugs, this week was full of energy, excitement, and connection.
A HUGE thank you to our amazing:
Teachers for inspiring from day one
Bus drivers for safely starting and ending each day
Staff for keeping everything running smoothly
Parents and guardians for your support and partnership
Students for bringing joy, curiosity, and heart into our schools
Here’s to a strong start to a phenomenal year!
THINK ABOUT IT THURSDAY | PERKS THAT PROVE WE CARE
At ACPSD, we believe supporting you means more than just a job—it means enhancing your life.
Local Discounts & Treats
Enjoy exclusive perks—from local business discounts to special giveaways and sweet surprises during staff appreciation events!
Employee Assistance Program
Life can throw curveballs. Our Employee Assistance Program is here to support you and your family when you need it most—providing expert guidance and resources for tough times.
Health, Dental & Life Insurance
We offer comprehensive coverage for you and your eligible dependents—because your well‑being matters to us inside and outside of the classroom.
At ACPSD, we believe supporting you means more than just a job—it means enhancing your life.
Local Discounts & Treats
Enjoy exclusive perks—from local business discounts to special giveaways and sweet surprises during staff appreciation events!
Employee Assistance Program
Life can throw curveballs. Our Employee Assistance Program is here to support you and your family when you need it most—providing expert guidance and resources for tough times.
Health, Dental & Life Insurance
We offer comprehensive coverage for you and your eligible dependents—because your well‑being matters to us inside and outside of the classroom.
This summer, Aiken County’s most talented young artists immersed themselves in the acGATEWAY experience, which is an intensive, high-level arts program designed to challenge and inspire! From vibrant visual art displays to moving theatrical performances, students demonstrated what passion, focus, and creativity can achieve in just a few short weeks! Want to see what makes acGATEWAY so special? Watch our behind-the-scenes student videos and discover why this program has been a beloved part of Aiken County since 1992 and keep an eye out for 2026 acGATEWAY audition information for our summer 2026 opportunity. #acGATEWAY #AikenArts #GiftedAndTalented #ArtsEducation #StudentShowcase #VisualAndPerformingArts #ACPSD https://www.acpsd.net/page/gateway
WORK WITH US WEDNESDAY | MULTILINGUAL LEARNER SUPPORT
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.
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.
Team Member Tuesday: Meet Lou Wakefield!
Say hello to Lou Wakefield, our Human Resources Associate supporting Certification, Evaluation, and Educator Effectiveness here at ACPSD!
Lou plays a vital role in helping educators maintain, renew, and advance their certifications—ensuring our teachers stay at the top of their game.
What Lou loves most? “The relationships I’ve built over the years. I love seeing people grow and transition, and I’m grateful to play a small part in their journey.”
Fun Fact: Lou was selected for the GEM Honor Court for the 2024–2025 school year—because she truly Goes the Extra Mile!
Mentorship Monday Spotlight: Amanda Auvenshine | 3rd Grade Teacher | Aiken Elementary School
"Let me tell you about a full circle moment…This beautiful lady, Emily Holdman, sat in my third grade class way back when she was one of my students. This semester I was lucky enough to have her as my intern. And it even gets better… now she is my coworker!!! I am beyond proud of you Emily! Your were an amazing student, a phenomenal intern, and I cannot wait to see you thrive teaching. God has already chosen the students that you will grow and have such an amazing impact on, and I cannot wait to see it and support you through it! Congratulations beautiful lady!!"
"Let me tell you about a full circle moment…This beautiful lady, Emily Holdman, sat in my third grade class way back when she was one of my students. This semester I was lucky enough to have her as my intern. And it even gets better… now she is my coworker!!! I am beyond proud of you Emily! Your were an amazing student, a phenomenal intern, and I cannot wait to see you thrive teaching. God has already chosen the students that you will grow and have such an amazing impact on, and I cannot wait to see it and support you through it! Congratulations beautiful lady!!"
SHINE is Back!
After a summer break, SHINE—our weekly spotlight on outstanding ACPSD employees—is ready to light up your feed again!
We’re kicking off the 2025-2026 school year by celebrating 7 incredible team members who went above and beyond to ensure a smooth start for our students and staff. From behind-the-scenes prep to front-line support, their dedication sets the tone for an amazing year ahead!
Let’s celebrate the brilliance that powers our district—every Sunday, all year long!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates
After a summer break, SHINE—our weekly spotlight on outstanding ACPSD employees—is ready to light up your feed again!
We’re kicking off the 2025-2026 school year by celebrating 7 incredible team members who went above and beyond to ensure a smooth start for our students and staff. From behind-the-scenes prep to front-line support, their dedication sets the tone for an amazing year ahead!
Let’s celebrate the brilliance that powers our district—every Sunday, all year long!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates
Feel Good Friday Vibes!
Only 3 days until our students return—and we couldn’t be more excited!
We’re counting down to halls filled with smiling faces, new beginnings, and the energy that only the first day of school can bring.
Here’s to a fresh start, new goals, and another amazing year of learning and growing together. Let’s make 2025–2026 unforgettable!
Only 3 days until our students return—and we couldn’t be more excited!
We’re counting down to halls filled with smiling faces, new beginnings, and the energy that only the first day of school can bring.
Here’s to a fresh start, new goals, and another amazing year of learning and growing together. Let’s make 2025–2026 unforgettable!
THINK ABOUT IT THURSDAY | INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE
Joining Team ACPSD means more than just a paycheck—it's an investment in your future and the lives of students.
Did you know?
We contribute 22% toward your state retirement plan—a powerful fringe benefit that helps you build long-term financial security while doing work that matters.
Now’s the perfect time to start a career where your impact is lasting, and your future is supported. www.acpsd.net
Joining Team ACPSD means more than just a paycheck—it's an investment in your future and the lives of students.
Did you know?
We contribute 22% toward your state retirement plan—a powerful fringe benefit that helps you build long-term financial security while doing work that matters.
Now’s the perfect time to start a career where your impact is lasting, and your future is supported. www.acpsd.net
WORK WITH US WEDNESDAY | TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES
Have a bachelor’s degree and always dreamed of becoming a teacher?
Now’s the time to make it happen—and we’re here to help you get started!
Aiken County Public Schools is looking for passionate individuals ready to make a difference in the classroom. Whether you’re changing careers or just getting started, we’ll guide you through the certification process and connect you with opportunities to inspire the next generation.
Have a bachelor’s degree and always dreamed of becoming a teacher?
Now’s the time to make it happen—and we’re here to help you get started!
Aiken County Public Schools is looking for passionate individuals ready to make a difference in the classroom. Whether you’re changing careers or just getting started, we’ll guide you through the certification process and connect you with opportunities to inspire the next generation.
Team Member Tuesday: Meet Kayla Jordan!
Say hello to 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!
Say hello to 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!
Welcome Back, ACPSD Educators! | As we begin the 2025–2026 school year, we’re excited to welcome our incredible teachers back to campus! This year, we’re focused on building trust, strengthening relationships, and working together to create learning environments where every student—and every educator—can thrive. We believe trust is the foundation of a strong school community. Let’s lead with integrity, support one another, and inspire our students every day. Here’s to a year of connection, collaboration, and excellence—together, we grow!
SHINE is back from summer vacation and ready to get to work!! | We’re relaunching our district-wide SHINE initiative — where you can help spotlight the incredible employees who brighten our schools every day! Each week, 7 individuals will be featured every Sunday for the positive impact they make across Aiken County Public Schools.
Know someone who's making a difference?
Nominate them today and help us celebrate the goodness that makes our district great! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates
Know someone who's making a difference?
Nominate them today and help us celebrate the goodness that makes our district great! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates
IGNITE 2025: Sparking Success! | What an incredible week celebrating and preparing our newest ACPSD educators! From engaging professional development, hands-on classroom prep, inspiring school orientations, and meaningful connections—we are ready to SHINE!
Our new teachers are equipped, energized, and excited to welcome students and ignite a love of learning in the 2025–2026 school year.
Here’s to classrooms that inspire, relationships built on trust, and a strong start for all.
Welcome to the ACPSD family—we’re so glad you’re here!
Our new teachers are equipped, energized, and excited to welcome students and ignite a love of learning in the 2025–2026 school year.
Here’s to classrooms that inspire, relationships built on trust, and a strong start for all.
Welcome to the ACPSD family—we’re so glad you’re here!
We're Hiring School Social Workers! | Aiken County Public Schools is seeking compassionate and dedicated Social Workers to join our team for the 2025–2026 school year.
Social Workers play a vital role in supporting the emotional, social, and academic success of our students by bridging school, home, and community resources.
If you're ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families, apply today!
Social Workers play a vital role in supporting the emotional, social, and academic success of our students by bridging school, home, and community resources.
If you're ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families, apply today!
IGNITE 2025 | NEW TO DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING EVENT
On Tuesday morning, Aiken County Public Schools welcomed more than 210 new educators to our district! With the vibrant energy of high school cheerleaders from across ACPSD and the powerful beats of the North Augusta High School Drumline, we kicked off Ignite — our signature orientation event designed to spark success as we prepare to welcome students for the 2025–26 school year.
First-year teachers and veteran educators new to Aiken County had the opportunity to connect with their teams, enjoy breakfast with their principals, and engage in a variety of meaningful professional learning sessions and training designed to support their growth throughout this year and beyond.
An event highlight – the “Fashion Show!” Our school and district leaders brought the style and the standards as they walked the runway during Ignite Orientation to model dress code-appropriate attire for our newest educators! From business casual to classroom-ready, they showed how to dress for success while keeping it professional and approachable. Big thanks to our leadership team for stepping up—and stepping out in style.
A huge thank you to our speakers, session leaders, generous sponsors, and community vendors for helping make this event such a success!
We’re thrilled to welcome these passionate educators to the ACPSD family and can’t wait to see the difference they’ll make in classrooms across the district!
#ACPSDcelebrates #BackToSchool #Ignite25
On Tuesday morning, Aiken County Public Schools welcomed more than 210 new educators to our district! With the vibrant energy of high school cheerleaders from across ACPSD and the powerful beats of the North Augusta High School Drumline, we kicked off Ignite — our signature orientation event designed to spark success as we prepare to welcome students for the 2025–26 school year.
First-year teachers and veteran educators new to Aiken County had the opportunity to connect with their teams, enjoy breakfast with their principals, and engage in a variety of meaningful professional learning sessions and training designed to support their growth throughout this year and beyond.
An event highlight – the “Fashion Show!” Our school and district leaders brought the style and the standards as they walked the runway during Ignite Orientation to model dress code-appropriate attire for our newest educators! From business casual to classroom-ready, they showed how to dress for success while keeping it professional and approachable. Big thanks to our leadership team for stepping up—and stepping out in style.
A huge thank you to our speakers, session leaders, generous sponsors, and community vendors for helping make this event such a success!
We’re thrilled to welcome these passionate educators to the ACPSD family and can’t wait to see the difference they’ll make in classrooms across the district!
#ACPSDcelebrates #BackToSchool #Ignite25
We're Hiring! | Aiken County Public Schools is seeking passionate Middle and Secondary Science Teachers to inspire the next generation of thinkers and problem-solvers!
If you're ready to spark curiosity and make a lasting impact in the classroom, we want to hear from you!
If you're ready to spark curiosity and make a lasting impact in the classroom, we want to hear from you!
Congratulations to Ashley Watson, this year’s AMP THE APPRECIATION door prize winner! Ashley shared a photo from our district’s annual employee celebration event in The Alley, capturing the spirit of AMP THE APPRECIATION with the hashtag #acpsdAMP25.
Thank you to High Country Olive Oil, Inc. for generously donating the door prize and supporting our efforts to recognize the amazing work of ACPSD employees.
Wishing everyone a relaxing and refreshing summer break!
We Are Hiring | Manager of Securit y and Emergency Management | Qualifications: Experience in public safety, law enforcement, or school security | Experience with emergency operations, crisis planning, or school safety practices is strongly desired | We Are Hiring | Manager of Securit y and Emergency Management | Qualifications: Experience in public safety, law enforcement, or school security | Experience with emergency operations, crisis planning, or school safety practices is strongly desired | Call Hope Mullins or visit us at acpsd.net to join our team! | Visit us at acpsd.net to join our team!
