When she’s not at work, Hope loves spending time with her family and fur babies. Summers mean beach and lake days, and fall means football—GO GAMECOCKS!
At ACPSD, Hope plays a vital role in recruiting and placing classified staff across our district. She understands that every role—no matter the title—is essential to student success.
“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is connecting candidates with the right role—the right fit. It genuinely warms my heart to know I’m helping place people in positions where they can thrive and enjoy the work they do.”
We’re so grateful for Hope’s dedication, heart, and commitment to building strong teams that make a difference for our students every day!

Every piece of the puzzle matters—and our HR team is the one that connects it all! From recruiting top talent to supporting our staff every step of the way, they make sure the big picture comes together beautifully.
Because of them, our schools are stronger, our teams feel supported, and our students thrive.
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates


![Employee Relations and Benefits/Compensation Team: Human Resources Kayla Jordan, Alex Rhoden, Zack Calhoun, Kim Hickson-Corbitt, & Deloris Brown Ever heard the song ""You've Got a Friend"" by James Taylor? This crew is the epitome of the song. Just look at these lyrics and tell me I'm not right? ""When you're down and troubled - And you need some...care - And nothin', nothin' is goin' right - Close your eyes and think of me [or call and ask for one of us] - And soon I will be there - To brighten up even your darkest night" - This team is ready, willing and want to help our employees through the good and difficult times! They are the best!"](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/aiken_county_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/19337524/large_2.png)






Today, we proudly recognize our small but mighty Human Resources team!
From recruiting top talent to supporting our incredible staff, they work tirelessly behind the scenes to make ACPSD a great place to work and grow.
Join us in thanking this dedicated team for everything they do to keep our schools and district running smoothly!

Think About It Thursday: Grow Your Future with ACPSD
Working for Aiken County Public Schools doesn’t just mean shaping the future—it means shaping YOURS, too!
Through partnerships with SCDE, programs like SC CREATE, and alternative pathways for those with a bachelor’s degree, ACPSD employees have access to scholarships, further education opportunities, and even tuition discounts!
Invest in yourself while making a difference for students. Your future starts here! https://www.acpsd.net/o/hr/page/teaching-pathways-new

Work For Us Wednesday | We need you!
Looking to make a difference behind the scenes? We’re hiring custodians to help keep our schools clean, safe, and welcoming for students and staff.
Custodians are essential team members who support learning environments by taking pride in every hallway swept and every classroom cared for.
Join our team of everyday heroes!
Full-time roles available
Great benefits & retirement options
Opportunity to grow and serve your community
Apply today and help us shine! acpsd.schoolspring.com

Erin plays a big role in welcoming our new teachers by providing onboarding support, answering application questions, and making sure they have everything they need before starting their journey with ACPSD.
“I love getting to be one of the first people to welcome our new teachers. My goal is to make their transition as smooth as possible so they can focus on getting excited about the kids they’re going to reach in our district!”
Even though Erin says she “can’t think of any fun facts,” we know the truth—her kindness, helpfulness, and commitment to our team make her a pretty amazing fact all on its own!
Today, and every day, we celebrate our amazing Technology Team – the tech-savvy leaders who keep Aiken County Public Schools fully operational and running at optimal bandwidth!
From troubleshooting to innovation, they ensure our systems stay glitch-free and future-ready so students and staff can focus on teaching and learning without interruption.
Thank you for keeping us connected, secure, and powered up every single day!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









It’s Feel-Good Friday and we’re rolling out the red carpet for our amazing educators! Nominations are now open for Stars of Public Education — your chance to spotlight the teachers, staff, and leaders who make Aiken County Public Schools shine.
Nominate a star today and help us celebrate those who go above and beyond for our students, schools, and community! https://www.acpsd.net/o/hr/page/staff-recognition

Did you know? Retired educators with a valid Professional Certificate can keep sharing their wisdom in the classroom through the Retired Educator Certificate!
Here’s how it works:
✅ Apply beginning May 1 if your certificate expires June 30.
✅ Once approved, you’ll receive a Retired Educator Certificate effective July 1.
✅ Keep renewing every 5 years with a quick request through My SC Educator Portal—no coursework required!
Your passion and experience are priceless, and we’d love for you to continue making a difference with ACPSD students!
Ready to keep inspiring? Visit ed.sc.gov to learn more!

At Aiken County Public Schools, we believe in the power of community and connection. This week, we're proud to spotlight our international educators joining us through our One World partnership!
Together with Millbrook Baptist Church, we’re rolling out the red carpet—hosting a “Christmas in September” welcome dinner and providing housewarming baskets to help our teachers feel right at home.
This partnership is more than support—it's fellowship, family, and the heart of what it means to work in a district that values people.
-Community partnerships
-Welcoming support systems
-A world of opportunity
#OneWorldACPSD

Today we celebrate our talented and innovative ACPSD IT professionals! From keeping networks secure and devices running to supporting teachers and students with technology, they make tech a seamless part of teaching and learning. We’re grateful for their expertise, creativity, and dedication to advancing technology across our district!
#ACPSDcelebrates #NationalITProfessionalsDay

Kerri works alongside Hope Mullins to welcome and onboard all new classified staff hires. She’s also a go-to support for applicants who may face challenges during the application process.
“The highlight of my week is meeting new hires and helping them feel their value and worth. I love coming to work every day and guiding them through any challenges as they navigate our onboarding systems. This is the best school district to work for and the best HR team to work alongside. I love my job!!”
We’re so grateful for Kerri’s dedication, positivity, and passion for making sure every new hire starts their journey at ACPSD feeling supported and appreciated.

Today, we honor the incredible team members who make our schools run smoothly every single day. From teachers to support staff, bus drivers to cafeteria teams, nurses to administrators—every role matters in creating a thriving learning environment for our students.
This week, we’re shining the spotlight on our Information Technology (IT) professionals in celebration of National IT Professionals Day on September 16. Whether it’s keeping our networks secure, solving tech challenges, or ensuring our classrooms stay connected, our IT team keeps learning moving forward.
Join us in saying THANK YOU to our IT heroes and all employees who make a difference in our schools every day!
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









FEATURE FRIDAY | Discover Aiken Scholars Academy!
Welcome to Aiken Scholars Academy, ACPSD’s premier high school for academically gifted learners. Located on the campus of USC Aiken, ASA offers a rigorous, future-focused education in a unique college setting.
What makes ASA special?
Enrolls a small, tight-knit cohort of students, ensuring personalized learning experiences.
Offers intensive AP courses in freshman and sophomore years, followed by dual enrollment at USC Aiken for juniors and seniors—accelerating college readiness.
Nationally recognized: ranked #10 in the U.S. and #1 in South Carolina.
ASA is ideal for motivated, high-achieving students who are ready for an accelerated path to higher education.
Located at USC Aiken’s campus—where high school meets college-level learning.

Think About It Thursday: Ever enjoyed a slize of pizza or unlocked a sweet car discount as a staff perk? At Aiken County Public Schools, we’re celebrating how we show appreciation—from free drinks and home mortgage deals to those little moments that make your day brighter. What’s your favorite perk that reminds you why working here matters? Let us know!

ACPSD is seeking a dedicated NJROTC Instructor to inspire, mentor, and lead our students in building discipline, leadership, and a sense of service.
This role is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to shape the future of young leaders in our schools and community.
Learn more and apply today at acpsd.net > Join Our Team!

Say hello to Alex Rhoden, our Leave Management Associate in Human Resources.
Alex has been with the district for nearly two years and plays a vital role in supporting employees through medical, maternity, military, and emergency leave processes. She also manages workers' compensation cases, shared leave donations, OSHA reporting, and supports our Risk Grant Program.
Outside of work, Alex stays busy with her adventurous twin boys! She loves hunting, camping, lake days, and cheering on Carolina football.
Why she loves her role:
"Every day, I get to help others during some of life’s toughest moments. It’s an honor to offer comfort and support when it’s needed most."

This week, we pause to remember and honor 9/11, paying tribute to the lives lost and the heroes who showed courage, sacrifice, and resilience on that day.
We also take time to celebrate the incredible impact of educators and staff in Aiken County Public Schools during several national observances:
International Literacy Day – Thank you to our teachers and staff who inspire a love for reading and open doors through literacy.
National Arts in Education Week – We celebrate the creativity, imagination, and expression our arts educators bring to classrooms every day.
National Physical Therapy Day – A special thank you to our physical therapists and support staff who empower students to grow stronger, more confident, and more independent.
Together, your dedication helps our students learn, grow, and shine.
If you know a staff member who deserves special recognition, give them a shout-out! www.acpsd.net/shine
#SHINEACPSD #ACPSDcelebrates









Meet our August Employees of the Month – the amazing Payroll Department Team!
From processing 3,400+ paychecks every two weeks to tackling 10,000 paychecks in December alone (wow!), this hardworking crew keeps ACPSD running smoothly. Behind the scenes, they ensure every employee is paid accurately and on time – all with grace, patience, and a commitment to helping others.
Huge congratulations to Valerie Barton, Jonathan Metts, Colleen Lederer, Teresa Story, Amanda Chadwick, and Keisha Jackson – your dedication makes a big difference, and we are so grateful for you!

Did you know ACPSD employees can flash their badge for FREE admission to regular season ACPSD sporting events?
Senior Perk Alert!
“Senioritis” is officially welcome! With our Golden Circle Club, Aiken County residents 60+ can enjoy complimentary admission to regular season games across the district.
Note: Jamborees, Playoffs, State Championship Playoffs, and Tournaments are excluded.
Whether you’re cheering as an employee or as a Golden Circle member, there’s a seat waiting for YOU in the stands!
