Sunday Shine | National Employee Appreciation

In Aiken County Public Schools, excellence happens because of the dedication, heart, and professionalism of our employees. From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to boardrooms, and every space in between your commitment to students and to one another makes a lasting difference.

You show up early.
You stay late.
You give your best, even on the hardest days.

Your impact cannot be measured in hours or tasks. It’s seen in student growth, in supportive teams, and in the culture we continue to build together.

Thank you for the excellence you model and the care you give so freely.

If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates
4 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, March 1, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Ann Adcock	 North Augusta High School  School Librarian	 We truly hit the jackpot with Ann! She does more for our school than most people will ever realize, quietly working her tech magic behind the scenes. When something works seamlessly, you can bet Ann had a hand in it. She may not chase the spotlight, but she absolutely help us all stay afloat! And the best part? She’s always ready to jump in and help with a smile! Thank you for all you do!	 NAHS Counseling Department
Brooke Reagin	 Oakwood Windsor Elementary	 1st Grade Teacher Mrs. Reagin consistently goes above and beyond for OWES. She dedicates countless extra hours to preparing for committees, creates a safe and welcoming environment for every child in her classroom, and supports her team in any way she can. She may not seek recognition, but she truly deserves to be acknowledged for all the hard work she does behind the scenes for her school.	 Bri Blacha
Gwendolyn Fundak	 Aiken High	 Special Education Teacher Ms. Fundak is an incredible asset to our SPED team. She works tirelessly to ensure her students receive exactly what they need, always seeking ideas and collaborating to strengthen her instruction. She stays on top of her meetings and responsibilities with professionalism and care. Her dedication, teamwork, and heart for students do not go unnoticed. We are truly grateful for all that she does.	 Ms. Arciaga
Kelsey Pitts	 Special Programs Occupational Therapist Kelsey is a wonderful OT and a great Team player. Kelsey recently stepped up to cover two meetings when another OT needed help. Kelsey is great with technology too and is always willing to help her "more seasoned"  therapists with excel and other time saving resources. Thank you, Kelsey, for all that you do!!
Cyndi Storey	 Procurement Department Purchasing Supervisor Cyndi always goes the extra mile to help everyone understand the procurement processes.  She is patient and always has an upbeat attitude.  Thank you, Cyndi, for all you do.	 Tracye Thompson
Carole Collum	 Freedman Autism & Discrete Trial Program Specialist Carole is an invaluable asset to ACPSD!  She is an incredibly experienced teacher with excellent behavioral intuition.  She is a team player, always willing to step up to help or adjust her schedule.  She wears many hats and manages responsibilities with grace and determination to do things in the best interest of children.  She is so much fun to conduct evaluations with and families enjoy seeing her interact with their child.  She makes a difference every single day and is so loved!	 Ashley and ELAT
Amy Shepler 	 New Ellenton Middle  Digital Media Technology Teacher	 Mrs. Shepler, is the coolest teacher, she is always in a uplifting mood and willing to help out with anything that she can. She does an extraordinary job with her work here at NEMS. We are all very lucky to have you Mrs. Shepler.	 Carrie Rish
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine

Work for Us Wednesday | School Attorney

Aiken County Public Schools is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable School Attorney to provide legal counsel and support to our Board of Education and district leadership.

As our School Attorney, you’ll:
-Advise the Board and Superintendent on legal and policy matters
-Prepare and review contracts, resolutions, and legal documents
-Represent the district in litigation and administrative hearings
-Stay current on state legislation and its impact on public education

Qualifications:
✅ Licensed to practice law in South Carolina
✅ Experience or training in school law preferred
✅ Strong background in legal interpretation, communication, and counsel

Join a team that values integrity, collaboration, and service to students!

Apply today: acpsd.net > Join Our Team!

4 months ago, Human Resources
School Attorney. Join our team to make a difference. Role. Provide legal guidance to ensure compliance with educational laws and regulations. Requirements. Juris Doctor degree and experience in education law preferred for this position. Benefits. Competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment await you. Apply Now. Seize this opportunity to shape the future. Submit your application by November 14, 2025!
Work for Us Wednesday | XSEL Director

Are you a passionate leader with expertise in behavior, social-emotional learning, and student-centered systems? We’re looking for an exceptional XSEL Director to lead and strengthen our Tier 3 therapeutic and behavior supports for elementary learners.

This role is more than administration, it’s leadership with heart and strategy.

This is an opportunity to lead a specialized program where systems, safety, and student growth intersect — and where your expertise can transform outcomes for our most vulnerable learners.

If you are ready to build systems of support, empower staff, and champion student growth, we’d love to connect.

Apply today and help us strengthen the foundation for every learner’s success.
4 months ago, Human Resources
We are hiring!  Director of XSEL. Lead tier 3 behavioral and SEL supports. Guide and develop high-impact teams. drive student growth and school excellence.  Requirements. Licensed in South Carolina as an elementary principal/supervisor, school psychologist, BCBA, or LPHA. www.acpsd.schoolspring.com.
Sunday Shine | All Heart. All In.

A heart of gratitude for the employees who give their all, with excellence, dedication, and love for what they do.
We see you. We appreciate you. We are better because of you.

If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine

#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates
4 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, February 15, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Erin Lard	 Special Programs Occupational Therapist	 Shout out to Erin!!! Erin was SUPER flexible when a request to screen/observe a 504 student was made with only 4 days to complete it before the meeting was being held.  She went above and beyond to get it covered at a school she does not serve to help her team and the student with identified concerns. Thank you Erin for jumping in and being such a team player.  	 The OT Team
Uyen Griffis	 Hammond Hill	Elementary Special Education Teacher I am so thankful to get to work with the best preschool team!!  Thank you for always going above and beyond in all aspects of your room. It is so fun to see the kids growing in their skills through the hard and consistent work that you (and Ms. Amanda and Ms. Sandra) do to ensure that there is time to practice fine motor skills.  You are a true blessing to all that get to work with you. 	 Mrs. Tara
Cynthia Kitchings	 South Aiken High Special Education Teacher	 I am so proud of the educator you are! You have stepped into the role and excelled! You truly make a difference in your student's lives. I love the way you encourage them while also pushing the to be the best version of themselves. You take everything head on with a determination to complete each task to the best of your ability. I love that you are not afraid to ask for help and listen to feedback. You are going to be an educator who your students remember for the rest of their lives.
Katie Reynolds Greendale Elementary  Art Teacher You are such an amazing art teacher and I’m so glad to have you on our team. You are an advocate for your students, a wonderful colleague, an amazing artist, and I couldn't do my job without you. 	 Summerford
Brandon Bedenbaugh	 Technology Department Telecommunications Specialist	 Every day, Brandon demonstrates the type of dedication that elevates everyone around him. He uses his years of expertise not just to solve complex problems, but to guide the team toward concise and impactful results. His dedication to collective growth and excellence is a major asset.	 Charles Boese
Kimberly Aycock 	 Kennedy Middle School Special Education Teacher	 Very Patient, loves helping the students learn especially mine.	 Bridget Carr
Heather McMillan	 Technology Department Technology Specialist Heather was instrumental in quickly restoring the school network infrastructure this morning, and we appreciate her assistance. 	 Technology Department
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
Feature Friday | Find Your New Career

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.
4 months ago, Human Resources
Teacher Pathways is a teacher pipeline program for high school students, employees, ACPSD graduates, and community members through partnerships with The University of South Carolina Aiken, Aiken Tech, and many more.  Want to become a teacher? Contact our Teacher Pathways Coordinator today! Call Kimmerie Allen. KimmerieLee@acpsd.net.
Work for us Wednesday | Elementary Teachers

The Teacher Transfer Window for the 2026–2027 school year is officially OPEN and will close on May 15, 2026.

New opportunities sometimes start on the inside. Log in and check the Internal Job Postings tab. Some roles are only visible to current employees.

Eligible teachers can apply, interview, and accept one transfer for the upcoming school year.

Applications must be submitted through acpsd.net > Join our Team!

Take time to explore your options and find the best fit for you!
4 months ago, Human Resources
26-27 teacher transfer. apply online. interview & find your dream school. transfer window closes May 15. 2026. Aiken County Public Schools.
Sunday Shine | Counselors Lead the Way, We All Shine

It takes a village to support our students, and we are thankful for every member of our school community. During Counselor Appreciation Week, we especially honor our counselors for their guidance, advocacy, and support as students navigate all career pathways. Your impact matters.

If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine

#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates
5 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, February 8, 2026 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Michelle Stanford	 Special Programs Compliance Program Specialist Michelle has gone above and beyond to support our special education team with IEP compliance. She has supported us with reviewing IEPs and ensuring they are in compliance by providing the team with timely feedback for improvement. Thank you, Michelle, for your dedication to our students and staff.	 KYLE DAVIS
David Fitz	 Maintenance Department Skilled Maintenance Worker Mr. Fitz did an amazing job fixing our fence. He went above and beyond to make sure our students were kept safe. He came out immediately to take care of the issue and was so helpful. 	 Your JD Lever family
Lain Bradford 	 North Augusta High School	 Culinary Arts Teacher A big shout out to Mr. Lain Bradford for collaborating with the community of North Augusta in promoting the culinary arts program at North Augusta High school! Also, a shoutout for organizing events that allow students to gain experiences with the public.
Jessica Gremminger	 North Augusta Middle School	 Special Education Teacher I would like to recognize Ms. Jessica Gremminger, Special Education Teacher at North Augusta Middle School, for being an outstanding educator. Ms. Gremminger consistently goes above and beyond to support her students, showing patience, dedication, and genuine care every day. Her commitment to helping all students succeed makes a meaningful difference in the classroom and the school community. North Augusta Middle School is lucky to have her!
Jennifer Powell	 Clearwater Elementary Special EducationTeacher Mrs. Powell goes above and beyond to help the students in her classroom be successful, engaged, and excited learners. From wearing a beret hat every day, to creating magical hands-on learning experiences, she continues to amaze me. She is willing to try anything to make learning fun and functional for her kids. Mrs. Powell SHINES in all that she does every day at Clearwater.	 Tara Waldhauer
Brandy Butler	 Instructional Materials Center Instructional Materials Center Manager Brandy is excellent in her work and in exceeding our expectations on orders.  We ordered some posters on a Wednesday, and they were done and delivered by Friday morning to my door! The posters are beautiful and well packaged.  Thank you, Brandy!	 Ivelisse V. Cruzado, auditor
Tiffany Quiller	 Paul Knox Middle	 Custodian Tiffany is the newest member of our custodial team and she is AMAZING. She works non-stop to help and keep our school clean, and I know that everyone here is so appreciative of her!	 Layne Stalvey
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine

Feature Friday | January Employee of the Month

Please join us in celebrating our January 2026 Employee of the Month, Mariah Clay!

Mariah Clay consistently goes above and beyond to support students, staff, and families with compassion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication. They are often the first to notice when a student is needs support and the first to step in, quietly, thoughtfully, and effectively, ensuring that every child feels seen, heard, and valued.

Thank you, Mariah Clay, for demonstrating excellence and making a lasting impact at Clearwater Elementary and across ACPSD. We appreciate all that you do!

5 months ago, Human Resources
Ms. Clay holding an employee of the month award.

Think About It Thursday | Teacher Transfers

The Teacher Transfer Window for the 2026–2027 school year is officially OPEN and will close on May 15, 2026.

New opportunities sometimes start on the inside.
Sign up or log into your SchoolSpring account and check the Internal Job Postings tab. Some roles are only visible to current employees.

Eligible teachers can apply, interview, and accept one transfer for the upcoming school year.
Applications must be submitted through acpsd.net > Join our Team!

Take time to explore your options and find the best fit for you!

5 months ago, Human Resources
26-27 teacher transfer. apply online. interview & find your dream school. transfer window closes May 15. 2026. Aiken County Public Schools.

Work for Us Wednesday | Calling All Game-Changers!

Several High Schools are looking for Athletic Trainers to keep our athletes strong, safe, and ready to win.

If you’ve got the passion for sports medicine and the heart to support student-athletes, we want you on our team!

We are looking for:

EDUCATION
Bachelor’s degree in athletic training
Master’s degree in athletic training (required for individuals entering the profession after 2022, per CAATE accreditation standards)

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:
Current South Carolina Athletic Training Licensure through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SCLLR)
Current certification through the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC)
Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
Current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification
National Provider Identifier (NPI) number preferred

Apply today! Be the difference on and off the field.

5 months ago, Human Resources
We're now hiring! Athletic Trainers.  If you’ve got the passion for sports medicine and the heart to support student-athletes, we want you on our team! Apply Now Michelle Lorio 803-306-1182. mlorio@acpsd.net.

REGULAR OPERATIONS TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3

ACPSD will return to regular operations tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3, following this weekend’s historic snow event. With temperatures below freezing overnight, please use caution in travelling as some shaded areas may still be partly frozen. We have appreciated the patience and flexibility of our school community and look forward to welcoming everyone back in person tomorrow.

5 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
A beautiful sunny day image announcing a Weather Update for Normal Operations.

E-LEARNING DAY /REMOTE WORKDAY FEBRUARY 2, 2026

Following this weekend’s winter storm and out of an abundance of caution for the safety of students, families, teachers and staff, tomorrow, Monday, February 2, will be an e-learning day for students. All teachers and staff will be on a remote work day as well.

Student e-learning will be available online, and our teachers are available for support. Should your student have any questions, difficulty, or need assistance with their e-learning assignments, please reach out.

Continued cold temperatures refreezing the snow that accumulated this weekend may impact our district’s operations for Tuesday as well. A decision regarding Tuesday will be announced no later than 3 p.m. tomorrow afternoon and will be made with the safety of all students, families, and employees at heart.

As always, we are grateful for the flexibility of our school community. Please be safe, enjoy the snow, and stay warm.

5 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
E Learning Day Information.
At the Tuesday, January 27, 2026, regularly-scheduled meeting, members took part in signing the new Ethical Principles poster, provided by the South Carolina School Boards Association.

The signing serves as a symbolic commitment to effective governance, transparency, and ethical leadership. The poster will remain on display in the boardroom throughout the year as a visible reminder of these shared principles.
5 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Colse up of hand holding pen.
Board Members= smiling looking at poster.
Board member signing poster.
Board member smiling.
Board member smilibg while signing poster.
Board member smiling with poster.
Board member signing poster with pen.
Board member signing poster with others.
Due to the anticipated weather conditions this Saturday, January 31, 2026, the Hiring Event has been cancelled. While we are disappointed we will not be able to meet with you in person this Saturday, we strongly encourage applicants to continue monitoring our job board and applying for any positions of interest.

For more information on joining ACPSD and to contact recruiters directly please visit www.acpsd.net/join-our-team. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

#ACPSD #AikenCountyPublicSchools
5 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Hiring Event Cancelled, please reach out to recruiters directly for more information. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

January 27, 2026: Regular Operations

Aiken County Public Schools will return to a regular schedule tomorrow, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, with no change to arrival times.

Thank you for your flexibility this morning as we operated on a two-hour delay due to the weekend’s winter storm.

Please anticipate continued cool temperatures throughout the week. District leaders will continue monitoring weather conditions alongside local Emergency Management officials, including the potential for a weather system this weekend, and will communicate any updates if changes to operations become necessary.

5 months ago, Aiken County Public School District

Due to the winter storm and out of an abundance of caution, all Aiken County public schools and offices will begin the day tomorrow, Monday, January 26, 2026, on a two-hour delayed start. While some areas of Aiken County experienced greater impacts from this storm than others, district leaders continue to consider conditions across the entire county. Temperatures are expected to rise today, which should improve conditions; however, some roadways—particularly bridges and secondary roads—may remain slick during the morning commute.

Important Details for Tomorrow:
Students and Staff: The two-hour delayed start applies to all students, teachers, and staff.
Student Meals: With the delayed start schedule, only lunch will be served in school cafeterias.
Half-Day & Partial-Day Programs: Students on half-day and partial-day schedules, including Early Learning Special Education students, are encouraged to attend school if possible; however, school bus transportation will not be available, as buses will be unable to run mid-day routes.
• No Before-School Activities: No activities will be permitted before school begins on the two-hour delay.
• After-School Activities: After-school activities, including Quest Zone and extracurricular activities such as athletic practices, will continue as scheduled.
• Aiken County Career and Technology Center: Morning session students should report to their home high schools. The afternoon session will continue as planned.

What's Next: ACPSD continues to collaborate closely with local Emergency Management officials and monitor conditions across the county. An update regarding any changes to Tuesday’s schedule will be shared no later than 3:00 p.m. tomorrow.
We look forward to welcoming students and staff to school tomorrow and appreciate our families’ continued patience and flexibility as we prioritize safety.

5 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Weather Update Two-Hour Delay On Monday, January 26.
Feature Friday | 8 days left!

Teacher Hiring Event | January 31, 2026
Aiken High School – 449 Rutland Drive
8:00 AM–12:00 PM

Application required | Apply ahead to streamline your interview day

Register now!
5 months ago, Human Resources
8 Days Left
With the possibility of a Winter Storm on everyone’s radar, please know that we are in close collaboration with local Emergency Management Officials in monitoring for impact to our area.

Confidence in the weekend storm’s possible impact to Aiken County has decreased. However, in an abundance of caution, our District and school’s weekend activities scheduled to extend beyond noon this Saturday, January 24, will be rescheduled.

This includes numerous activities, such as Saturday’s acGATEWAY auditions, as well as the MLK Jr. Community Event previously scheduled for Sunday. Individual schools and programs will share details on these and other cancellations along with rescheduled dates and times.

Our emergency management team will continue to work closely with local officials in monitoring the storm over the coming days. As we prepare for the possibility of e-learning on Monday, students will be sent home from school tomorrow with their laptop and remote assignments.

A decision regarding the safety of operations for next week will be made as soon as possible. We recognize that school closure decisions have a tremendous impact on our community, especially parents and guardians. Please know that the safety of our students, families, teachers and staff is always our highest priority, and that every effort will be made to utilize our five designated e-learning days carefully so as to not extend the school year to meet mandated requirements. An update regarding operations for Monday, January 26, will be shared no later than 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 25.
5 months ago, Aiken County Public School District

Think About It Thursday | Save the Date!

Our Annual Hiring Event is on January 31, 2026 at Aiken High School!

Join us for a one-stop-shop experience in the gymnasium, where all 43 of our school locations will be represented. Whether you're a traditional pathway teacher or a current South Carolina educator looking to transfer, this is the perfect opportunity to explore your next career move. (This event is not intended for current Aiken County teachers.)

You could even walk out with a job offer on the spot!

Location: Aiken High School Gym
Date: January 31, 2026

Mark your calendar and take the first step toward a rewarding future with Aiken County Public Schools.

Apply online to save time!

5 months ago, Human Resources
Aiken County Public Schools Save the date. Hiring Event 01.31.2026.
Work for Us Wednesday | Ready to take the next step in your career?
Visit our Hiring Event on January 31, 2026, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM, at Aiken High School (449 Rutland Drive, Aiken, SC 29801).

- Applications are required for interviews
- Pre-register to save time and skip the wait

Come see where your future can grow!
5 months ago, Human Resources
Hiring Event. January 31, 2026. 8AM-12 PM at Aiken High. Current + 2026-2027 Positions. Hiring Teacher + Certified Staff. Ready to make a difference? Join out team! Pre-registration encouraged. Walk-ins welcome. Applications required for interview. www.acpsd.net Hiring event posting.