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!

2 months ago, Human Resources
Lou Wakefield in a dress smiling.
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!!"
2 months ago, Human Resources
2 Teachers in dresses in front of a USCA mural.
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
2 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, July 20, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Mickey Jendraszek	 Educational Technology  Computer Technician Mickey is incredibly kind and always offers to help with anything we need. Not only does she quickly take care of issues, but she does so with a smile and a "Let me know how it goes!" The great part is that she means it! She wants you to be happy and it shows! She cares about her people, her work and is absolutely priceless!	 Erika Smith
Dot McGhee	 Byrd Elementary Custodian	 Ms. Dot has worked tirelessly all summer to ensure that Byrd Elementary is spotless for teachers, students, and families. 	 Kyle Davis, Byrd Elementary
Jennifer Cooney	 Warrenville Elementary 1st Grade Teacher	 This woman goes above and beyond for these young children. She works tirelessly to come up with creative ways to keep the children engaged . You can tell she loves what she does and these cares about these children. There are so many kids that are now young adults that credit her for her teaching. She deserves the biggest shout out for what she does and how much she cares!	 Nate Zeller
Breannah Cleveland	 Graniteville Elementary 5K Instructional Aide	 Mrs. Cleveland goes above and beyond, not only for the students in her class but for kids in every class. She is one of the most loving, caring, selfless educators that I have ever met.  She is an asset to the Kindergarten team and we are lucky to have her. 	 Jordan Mejias
Renee Reynolds	 Brookhaven Operations  Administrative Secretary	 Renee is truly the backbone of Operations.  She was a rock star over the summer helping everyone in Operations coordinate their interview panels for the new positions.  She helps Operations get ready for the start of school and getting their leadership summit ready.  She is a person with the biggest work load but will stop to help anyone and always with a smile.
Liz McClearen	 Belvedere Elementary School	 3rd Grade Teacher The highlight of Ignite for me was  "A Classroom That Shines". Liz McClearen's classroom and personality most definitely shined bright! Her classroom was warm and welcoming, and the way she broke things down for us was so intentional and informative. As a first-year teacher, I left feeling like I could take a deep breath and trust that I have a solid foundation to build from.	 Jelessa Smith from Hammond Hill Elementary
Debra Glover	 Aiken Elementary Custodian	 Ms. Glover did an amazing job cleaning our school over the summer. We were short-staffed the majority of the summer, and she came in every day ready to work and knocked it out. Thank you, Ms. Glover, for being a leader this summer.  This school would not be so clean for our students to return to without you! 	 Misty McConnell
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
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!
2 months ago, Human Resources
3 Days left.
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
2 months ago, Human Resources
Join our team. Aiken County Public Schools. Jobs with BIG impact. Fulfilling careers. 22% employer retirement contribution. holiday time with family. apply now for your future career at 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.
2 months ago, Human Resources
We are hiring. Job Postings. Middle level math teaches. secondary math teachers. SCIENCE teachers. missle level ela teachers. apply now. www.acpsd.schoolsoring.com.
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!
2 months ago, Human Resources
Picture of a female smiling.
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!
3 months ago, Human Resources
Welcome teachers! 2025-2026
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
3 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sundays Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
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!
3 months ago, Human Resources
IGNITE
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!
3 months ago, Human Resources
We are hiring 2025-2026. Social Worker. Master's Degree in Social Work. State licensure in Social work. www.acpsd.schoolspring.com
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
3 months ago, Aiken County Public Schools
Ashley Watson with HR Leading Ignite.
New teachers with their school principal sitting together at Ignite.
Cheerleaders perform a cheer in the cafeteria at Ignite.
Technology staff providing support to a new teacher.
Cheerleaders welcome new teachers outside of Aiken High to Ignite.
Amy Gregory leads a session at Ignite.
New Aiken County teacher asking a question during a session at Ignite.
Two staff members dress in wind suits for a fashion show in the cafeteria for Ignite.
New teacher working during a session at Ignite.
Two new teachers talking during a session at Ignite.
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!
3 months ago, Human Resources
We are hriring. Job Positions. Middle Level Science Teachers. Secondary Science Teachers. apply now. www.acpsd.schoolspring.com
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!
4 months ago, Aiken County Public Schools
Two ACPSD employees posing with branded sunglasses and frisbees during AMP..
Three ACPSD employees posing and smiling in downtown Aiken at AMP THE APPRECIATION.
Door prize gift bag from High Country Olive Oil  alongside a sign encouraging employees to share their photos with #acpsdAMP25.
Ashley Watson posing with door prize from High Country Olive Oil in office.
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!
4 months ago, Human Resources
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!
🌟 Summer Starts, But the Work Never Stops! 🌟 School’s out and graduation has officially commenced—congrats to all our graduates! As we head into a well-deserved summer break, we want to thank our incredible staff for an amazing year. A special shoutout to the dedicated team members who continue working through the summer—you keep things running and we appreciate you more than you know! 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, June 1, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Holly Roberts	 Mossy Creek Elementary School 2nd Grade Teacher	 Holly has been a wonderful mentor, teacher, team member and friend! I have learned so much from her in my two years here at the Creek. Holly sees what needs to be done and does it. No questions asked. She goes above the call of duty when it comes to the needs of her students and her co-workers. I truly appreciate all she does for me and this school. Holly Roberts is just awesome!	 Keely Seider
Patricia Wilson Division of Instruction District Testing Coordinator Mrs. Wilson has been such a resource to all School Testing Coordinators this year!  Her levels of support meet the rigorous expectations she sets as our District Testing Coordinator!  Thank you for all that you do, Mrs. Wilson!	 Kishni Neville, Jackson Middle School
Cassie Govan	 North Aiken Elementary 	 1st Grade Teacher As, we are getting ready to end the school year I would like to Shout Out Ms. Govan. She is always going above and beyond for all her students in and outside the classroom. It have been a pleasure to have her for my son 1st grade teacher.  Lastly, I would like to thank her for her support and guidance. 	 Yvette Simpkins
Megan Bush	 Byrd Elementary	 Instructional Coach Huge shout out to Megan for her incredible dedication and hard work as an instructional coach this school year! Her intentional efforts to grow both students and teachers do not go unnoticed. Her support, insight, and passion make a real difference every single day. Keep on shining!	 Ashley Clark
Kim Reed	 XSEL Behavior Interventionist 	 Kim is so much fun to work with and an expert in her classroom.  She is dynamic in the classroom and works with each student with such care and purpose. Her students and coworkers sure love her!	 Traci Martin
April Layfield	 Millbrook Elementary School 	 4th Grade Teacher Mrs. Layfield is the best team leader you could ask for. She is a teacher you would want your child to have. I can't say enough good things about her. You see that in all of the Seniors who made it a point to go to her room after the walk. You are amazing. Thank you.	 Robert Williams
Byron Darville	 Transportation	 Bus Driver As a 3rd grader, my son was nervous about riding the bus for the first time. However, Day 1, he came home so excited about his bus driver!  Mr. Darville creates positive relationships by interacting with his students and that means a lot to them.  As a bonus, he brings pizza and candy as a treat for great behavior! We are grateful for the positive role model that "Mister Mister" exemplifies to his students. Thank you for making a difference and keeping them safe!	 Christen Sikes (John Luke's mom)
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
🌟 Honoring Our Heroes This Memorial Day Weekend 🌟 As we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, we also take this moment to recognize the everyday heroes in our schools—our dedicated teachers, support staff, and administrators. Your commitment to shaping the future through education uplifts our community and strengthens the values we hold dear. Thank you for your service to our students, especially as we reflect on service and sacrifice this Memorial Day. 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, May 25, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Dustin Fowler	 Aiken iNNOVATE Virtual Learning Coordinator 	 Dustin works tirelessly to support his students and staff! He wears so many hats and 5/25handles his workload with grace. Thank you for all you do, Dustin!!
Daniel Gardner	 Maintenance	 Plumber Thanks so much for all that you do for our school! You always have a positive helpful attitude when you come in the office to complete work orders. We appreciate you! Thank you! 	 NAMS Office Staff
Ron Johnson 	 Aiken Scholars Academy English Teacher 	 He goes above and beyond!  He gets the students engaged and excited about what they’re learning. He helps guide them and treats them as adults.
Lauren Enter	 Special Programs	 Coordinator of Elementary Special Education  Lauren is one of the most helpful and supportive people I have ever worked with. She is willing to go out of her way to help others and provide support to coworkers. She maintains a positive and pleasant attitude, even when managing difficult or frustrating situations. She provides positive praise and supportive feedback to everyone around her. I could not do my job efficiently or effectively without her!	 Angela Hodges
Michelle McCord	 Leavelle McCampbell Middle School  Instructional Aide 	Ms. McCord is always there to help in any way possible. She is a joy to have around and makes every day worth coming to work. Every school needs a Ms. McCord.	 Hastings
Kippy Kelly	 JD Lever Elementary Principal	 Mrs. Kelly always puts others before herself. She always faces challenges with grace and puts the needs of others before her own. She does an amazing job with each student and staff member in her building. She is a wonderful person, partner, and principal. We love her dearly. 	 JD Lever Front Office Staff
Hannah Ellison Byrd Elementary Speech Language Pathologist	 I just want to give a shout-out to one of our amazing speech therapists, Hannah Ellison. You have such a kind soul, and it shines through in the way you care for your students and their families. You're thoughtful, compassionate, and always ready to support the team. It's truly a gift to work alongside someone like you - thank you for being you!
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
The Seamless Summer Meal Program returns for Summer 2025! The ACPSD Child Nutrition Program will be offering nutritious meals at no cost for children aged 18 and under, as well as for individuals with disabilities up to age 21. Meals will be served Monday through Thursday from June 2 to June 26, 2025. See flyer for more details!
4 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Seamless Summer Meal Program 2025 Flyer
We are hiring! | Middle and Secondary positions & more! | Apply today!
4 months ago, Aiken County Public Schools
We are hiring. Job Positions. Middle level math teaches. secondary math teachers. chemistry teachers. missle level ela teachers. apply now. www.acpsd.schoolsoring.com.
Shining a Spotlight on Staff! Your dedication, resilience, and heart have made this school year one to remember. As we head into the final stretch, know that your hard work is seen and deeply appreciated. Let’s finish strong—together! 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, May 18, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Sarah Coker	 Special Programs Physical Therapist 	 Sarah goes above and beyond for the students in ACPSD!!! She is so encouraging to the teachers she supports and helps to problem-solve difficult situations. Sarah even joins problem-solving meetings on her day off!! :) It is truly a joy to watch her work and I learn from her each time I have the opportunity to collaborate with her. Thank you, Sarah!	 Lauren Enter
Stacy Mayson 	 Byrd Elementary  1st Grade Teacher	 I honestly don’t have enough words to express how grateful I am for Stacy Mayson. You’re not just an incredible team lead; you’re a true friend, a constant support, and a light on the tough days. Thank you for always answering my endless questions, believing in me, and inspiring me with your strength, kindness, and passion. You are truly one of a kind, and I’m so lucky to have you in my corner. 	 Breanna Norris
Arian Mozone	 Transportation Department Bus Driver Shoutout to Arian Mozone, a recent Midland Valley graduate and now one of our dedicated school bus drivers! Since starting, Mr. Mozone has gone above and beyond—covering extra routes, athletic trips, and helping wherever needed. Drivers like Arian play a vital role in ensuring our students get where they need to be to succeed. Thank you, Mr. Mozone, for your hard work and Mustang pride!	 Jeremiah Partlow
Liz McClearen	 Belvedere Elementary	 4K Teacher Liz, you are a loving and caring teacher, and you can see in the kids. I've enjoyed working on your team the last two years and will miss working with you next year when you go to 3rd grade. Thank you for being there and being a big help to me when I have had some health issues come up and helping me through it. Thank you for your concern and caring.	 Cheryl May
Kelia Andrews	 Warrenville Elementary School	 4th Grade Teacher Kelia truly puts so much love and effort into her kids and career every day. She makes such an impact at our school and has worked incredibly hard to help start a new program at our school. One of the best! 	 Caroline DiDio
Michelle Schlachter	 North Augusta Middle School Science Teacher	 You did such an amazing job AGAIN with the Spring Fling! You did awesome with planning and decorating for the dance! The students had so much fun! Thanks for making lasting memories for our students!	 Miss Abney (NAMS Secretary)
Sara Boyso	 Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary	 4K Instructional Aide Mrs. Boyso is simply the best!! Her care for students extends beyond the classroom. Her passion for what she does is evident through her actions and she is a true blessing to my son and me.	 A grateful mama
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine