Team Member Tuesday: Meet Michelle Lorio!
Say hello to Michelle Lorio, our Certified Recruitment & Staffing Coordinator at ACPSD!
Michelle plays a vital role in making sure our middle and high schools are fully staffed with outstanding certified educators and athletic coaches. From the classroom to the playing field, she’s committed to placing the right people in the right roles.
What drives Michelle?
"I love knowing that the teachers I help place are making a real difference in the lives of students in our community."
Thanks to Michelle’s work, students across the district are supported by passionate, high-quality educators every day!
Say hello to Michelle Lorio, our Certified Recruitment & Staffing Coordinator at ACPSD!
Michelle plays a vital role in making sure our middle and high schools are fully staffed with outstanding certified educators and athletic coaches. From the classroom to the playing field, she’s committed to placing the right people in the right roles.
What drives Michelle?
"I love knowing that the teachers I help place are making a real difference in the lives of students in our community."
Thanks to Michelle’s work, students across the district are supported by passionate, high-quality educators every day!
Mentorship Monday Spotlight: Michelle Morgan | 5th Grade Mathematics Teacher | Gloverville Elementary
"I chose to mentor a student teacher because I believe in the importance of giving back to the profession and helping shape the next generation of educators. Teaching is a constantly evolving field, and I see mentorship as a way to reflect on and refine my own practice while supporting someone at the beginning of their journey. Being a mentor allows me to share the knowledge and experience I’ve gained over the years, not just in classroom management and lesson planning, but in navigating the real-world challenges of the profession. I remember those that mentored me when I was first starting out with Aiken County Public Schools, and it truly made a difference in my life and prepared me for my career. I hope to be able to pass on the baton in the same way it was given to me."
"I chose to mentor a student teacher because I believe in the importance of giving back to the profession and helping shape the next generation of educators. Teaching is a constantly evolving field, and I see mentorship as a way to reflect on and refine my own practice while supporting someone at the beginning of their journey. Being a mentor allows me to share the knowledge and experience I’ve gained over the years, not just in classroom management and lesson planning, but in navigating the real-world challenges of the profession. I remember those that mentored me when I was first starting out with Aiken County Public Schools, and it truly made a difference in my life and prepared me for my career. I hope to be able to pass on the baton in the same way it was given to me."
SHINE | Hero Heat Wave
With a heat index hotter than the school lunch pizza in August; our employees are still SHINING bright!
No amount of humidity can dim the dedication of Team ACPSD. From classrooms to custodial closets, buses to breakrooms, every role keeps our students cool, calm, and learning!
Thanks for sweating it out (literally) and making another amazing week happen. Stay hydrated, stay awesome, and keep on shining!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates
With a heat index hotter than the school lunch pizza in August; our employees are still SHINING bright!
No amount of humidity can dim the dedication of Team ACPSD. From classrooms to custodial closets, buses to breakrooms, every role keeps our students cool, calm, and learning!
Thanks for sweating it out (literally) and making another amazing week happen. Stay hydrated, stay awesome, and keep on shining!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates
Feature Friday | July Employee of the Month
Meet Tim Lott, Custodian at Midland Valley High School!
With a heart for service and a can-do attitude, Timothy lives out what it means to be a team player every single day.
“Why not help someone else? I really enjoy pitching in. It's always good to help out. At the end of the day, you just do what you need to do to get the job done.” – Timothy Lott
We’re incredibly grateful for Timothy’s dedication, positive spirit, and willingness to go the extra mile. Thank you for making a difference at MVHS and across ACPSD!
THINK ABOUT IT THURSDAY | DID YOU KNOW?
Aiken County Public Schools employs 3,572 employees. 1896 certified educators—plus over a thousand of classified staff including bus drivers, cafeteria teams, custodians, aides, and support personnel.
That’s a powerful community working every day behind the scenes and in front of the classroom—making a real difference for our students.
Join #TeamACPSD and be part of something bigger: purposeful work, meaningful impact, and a career that matters.
Aiken County Public Schools employs 3,572 employees. 1896 certified educators—plus over a thousand of classified staff including bus drivers, cafeteria teams, custodians, aides, and support personnel.
That’s a powerful community working every day behind the scenes and in front of the classroom—making a real difference for our students.
Join #TeamACPSD and be part of something bigger: purposeful work, meaningful impact, and a career that matters.
WORK WITH US WEDNESDAY | WE’RE HIRING!
Interested in making a difference with a district that values people, purpose, and growth?
Please enjoy this photo carousel highlighting:
Who we are as a district | The types of roles we’re hiring for | Why YOU should join our team | How to apply and get started
We’re looking for passionate individuals ready to serve, lead, and grow with us at ACPSD.
Apply today at acpsd.schoolspring.com
Team Member Tuesday: Meet Amy Gregory!
Say hello to Amy Gregory, our dedicated Induction Coach here at ACPSD!
Amy plays a vital role in setting up our newest educators for success—bringing a wealth of knowledge from her years in the classroom and leadership. She also supports training on our educator evaluation rubric, helping ensure continuous growth and excellence across the district.
After a brief retirement, Amy’s passion for teaching brought her back to support the next generation—and we’re so glad it did!
What Amy loves most about her job?
“I get to work with new teachers whose energy and excitement are truly inspiring. I love visiting schools across the district and seeing the incredible talent and commitment in our classrooms. It’s an honor to be part of their journey.”
We’re lucky to have Amy guiding and growing our future educators!
Say hello to Amy Gregory, our dedicated Induction Coach here at ACPSD!
Amy plays a vital role in setting up our newest educators for success—bringing a wealth of knowledge from her years in the classroom and leadership. She also supports training on our educator evaluation rubric, helping ensure continuous growth and excellence across the district.
After a brief retirement, Amy’s passion for teaching brought her back to support the next generation—and we’re so glad it did!
What Amy loves most about her job?
“I get to work with new teachers whose energy and excitement are truly inspiring. I love visiting schools across the district and seeing the incredible talent and commitment in our classrooms. It’s an honor to be part of their journey.”
We’re lucky to have Amy guiding and growing our future educators!
Mentorship Monday Spotlight: Meet Uyen Griffis | Early Learning Special Needs Teacher | Hammond Hill Elementary School
“Mentoring allows me to give back and help train the next generation of educators—not just to be great, but to be BEYOND extraordinary! College lays the groundwork, but I strive to share the real-world tools, insight, and support they can’t get in a classroom. It’s about building confidence, modeling professionalism, and sparking a lasting passion for teaching. This year, I’m grateful to mentor Jacob Shryock from Augusta University and look forward to supporting his journey toward becoming an exceptional special education teacher. “
“Mentoring allows me to give back and help train the next generation of educators—not just to be great, but to be BEYOND extraordinary! College lays the groundwork, but I strive to share the real-world tools, insight, and support they can’t get in a classroom. It’s about building confidence, modeling professionalism, and sparking a lasting passion for teaching. This year, I’m grateful to mentor Jacob Shryock from Augusta University and look forward to supporting his journey toward becoming an exceptional special education teacher. “
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!
