Team Member Tuesday | Meet Hope Mullins, our Classified Staffing & Recruitment Specialist!

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!
5 months ago, Human Resources
Smiling lady in a green shirt.
SHINE | Celebrating Our ACPSD Human Resources Team!

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
5 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, September 28, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Recruitment Team Human Resources  Ashley Watson, Michelle Lorio, Hope Mullins, Erin Beck, & Kerri Solomon	 This team is the backbone of the hiring of hundreds of employees every year. They know their job and they do it well!  I mean just look at the 3500 amazing employees that work in ACPSD! They deserve a BIG SHOUT OUT!
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!"
HR Team Human Resources	 Dr. Whitney Koeppen, Amy Gregory, Debbie Gregory, Lou Wakefield, Elaine Grice, & Emily Myers  In every organization you have persons who do "everything else" and that is what these employees in our HR Department do. They support induction teachers, employee certification, provide coaching and evaluation assistance, and anything else needed to ensure that our employees are served. They are such an integral part of what makes the HR Department run and run well. They definitely SHINE!
Katrina Riley Human Resources Director of Human Resources Ms. Riley joined the HR Department in early July, 2025. Since she arrived, she has jumped into the fray and become a calm force within the Department. She leads well. She offers so much wisdom and insight and she is navigating the "ship" with clarity and purpose. I am so grateful that she is part of our team and so many have echoed those words, too! So glad she is part of our team! She is definitely SHINING!
Kerri Solomon	 Human Resources	 Classified Employee Support Associate Kerri is such a superstar! She works so hard to help our classified new hires with anything they need to get started with ACPSD. She is so kind, patient, and caring. Human Resources is so lucky to have her!
Erin Beck Human Resources  Certified Employee Support Associate	 	 Erin is incredibly helpful, positive, and just an absolute joy to work with. Whether it's jumping in to support a teammate, offering encouragement, or just bringing good energy to every interaction, she consistently goes above and beyond. Her attitude makes a big difference, and it doesn't go unnoticed.  Thank you for being such a valuable part of the team!
Deloris Brown	 Human Resources Classified Benefits Associate	 Deloris helps our staff members through all the stages of life (marriage, children, death, etc.) Her compassion and dedication is incomparable to anyone I know. She consistently responds to others in a timely manner and makes you feel like the only one she is serving even though she is supporting hundreds of employees at any given time.
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
Feature Friday: Celebrating HR Professionals Day!

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!
5 months ago, Human Resources
Aiken County Public Schools. Thank you.

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

5 months ago, Human Resources
Further your education.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! More info. QR code.

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

5 months ago, Human Resources
Custodian Positions. We are looking for a positive and professional team to ensure a clean and healthy environment for our schools. Our benefits. Starting pay $14.29. Insurance. Retirement. Off on Holidays.Call Hope Mullins 803-306-1181.
Team Member Tuesday | Meet Erin Beck, our Human Resources Associate – Application & Employee Support!

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!
5 months ago, Human Resources
Smiling woman in a green shirt.
SHINE | Celebrating our Tech Team!

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
5 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, September 21, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Dakota Abrams	 Educational Technology Network Technician Since joining our team Dakota has jumped in to learn everything he can in a short amount of time. He has excelled in any task given to him. Keep up the good work!	 Shawn Chandler
Cody Clark	 Educational Technology Network Technician	 Cody has recently joined our team! I appreciate his hard work and dedication to getting the job done. He has shown that he wants to grow his skills and do the best job he can! We welcome him to our team!	 Shawn Chandler
Brandon Harley	 Educational Technology IT & Security Administrator  Brandon H. has recently inherited a difficult system to manage for ACPSD. He has grown his skills and has exceeded his predecessors by diving in the deep end, getting certified, and working with his team to get it right. He is an exceptional team member!	 Shawn Chandler
Charles Boese	 Educational Technology Computer Networking Systems Administrator I want to extend a huge thank you and congratulations to Charles Boese for his outstanding work on the massive OneSync project for Technology. This was a complex and critical system update, and he tackled it with incredible skill, dedication, and a positive attitude. From planning and testing to the final rollout, Charles' meticulous effort ensured a smooth and successful transition for everyone. Thank you for your hard work and for making this major project a huge success!  Michelle Everhart
Jeremy Faugl	 Educational Technology Lead Technology Specialist Leadership Shout-Out to Jeremy Faugl! I want to extend a huge thank you to Jeremy Faugl for his fantastic leadership of the GPO Group. In a project with so many moving parts, his ability to help the team prioritize the most critical items has been invaluable. He has done an excellent job keeping everyone focused and on task, ensuring that we are consistently moving forward. Thank you for your guidance and for making this complex process manageable and successful! Michelle Everhart
Nicholas Diehl	 Educational Technology Lead Technology Specialist A huge shout-out to my right hand, Nicholas Diehl! Thank you for your unwavering reliability. Your proactive work keeps our key systems running flawlessly, empowering our entire tech team to succeed. Beyond the technical skill, you always remind us of our ""why""—to support those who teach. Your dedication to this mission is inspiring, and you make it look easy. Thank you for everything you do Michelle Everhart
Tyler Hair	 Educational Technology Lead Technology Specialist Shout-Out to Tyler! A huge shout-out to Tyler! He is an incredibly hard worker who is always willing to go the extra mile and lend a hand to a teammate. What really stands out is his dedication to digging deep for an answer, no matter the challenge. That persistence and collaborative spirit are a huge asset to our team. Thank you for all your great work! Michelle Everhart
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
Feel-Good Friday: Stars of Public Education

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
5 months ago, Human Resources
Stars of Public Education. Nominations now open. Qualifications. Dedicated and dependable. Positive attitude and team player. Innovative and impactful. Goes above and beyond for students and staff. nominate now. QR code.
Think About It Thursday! | Retired Educators

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!
5 months ago, Human Resources
Happy retirement Educators with a Valid Professional Certificate A retired educator who holds a current, renewable Professional certificate may apply for the Retired Educator certificate beginning May 1 of the year in which the Professional certificate will expire on June 30. To be issued the Retired Educator certificate with an effective date of July 1 that same year, all application requirements must be on file with the SCDE Office of Educator Services by November 1. Lou Wakefield Certification associate. 803-641-2428 or lwakefield@acpsd.net
Work for Us Wednesday | One World

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
5 months ago, Human Resources
International Educators One World Welcome Back Dinner. September 17, 2025. Sponsored by Millbrook Baptist Church
CELEBRATING NATIONAL IT PROFESSIONALS DAY

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
5 months ago, Aiken County Public Schools
IT Professionals Day Please join us in celebrating our incredible IT professionals who keep ACPSD connected and moving forward!
Team Member Tuesday | Meet Kerri Solomon, our Onboarding Associate for Classified Staff!

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.
5 months ago, Human Resources
Smiling office professional
SHINE | Celebrating ALL Our Amazing Employees!

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
5 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, September 14, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Stephanie Redd	 East Aiken School of the Arts	 Nurse Shout to Nurse Redd! Her joyful spirit, endless positivity, and caring heart make such a difference every single day. She always shows up with a smile, kindness, and so much patience. We’re beyond lucky to have someone as sweet, compassionate, and dedicated as her looking out for everyone.
Regina Breazeale 	 Mossy Creek Elementary School  PE Teacher	 My daughter loves Mrs. Breazeale! She loves how she is always smiling and always keeping kids active and healthy in PE! Thanks for being such a positive influence at Mossy Creek!
Amanda Robinson	 Midland Valley High School Special Education Clerk	 Special Thanks to Amanda Robinson for you continued support to the Department of Special Programs at Midland Valley High School. You are truly amazing! Thanks so much for all that you do!
Erika Smith	 Aiken iNNOVATE	 School Counselor I want to take a moment to recognize the tremendous impact Mrs. Erika Smith has on the Aiken iNNOVATE program. From meeting with students and providing guidance on graduation progress, to scheduling more than 200 students in July, to researching new opportunities we can offer, Mrs. Smith is an essential part of our team. We couldn’t do this work without her. Thank you, Mrs. Smith, for all that you do for our program.  	 Dustin Fowler
Kristle Golden	 Gloverville Elementary School Assistant Principal Mrs. Golden is a positive beacon for our school. She always has something positive to say, no matter the situation, and she shows up every time someone seeks her help or advice. She is a great leader, and we all appreciate the support and guidance she offers. (She also has great dance moves when our kids request a five minute dance party with her!)
Mellixa Tucker	 JD Lever Elementary Special Education Teacher	 Ms. Tucker is an amazing teacher. She is always working hard to ensure her students are successful each and everyday. She teaches them life skills and makes sure her students feel loved and safe. We love having her at JD Lever.
Michele Badillo	 Special Programs Occupational Therapist "Michele is the absolute BEST team player!!! She is one of the first to volunteer to help cover a meeting, help with orders, or assist with making visual supports ….all while smiling. Michele has been a great addition to our OT department and we are so lucky to have her!"	 Tara
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine

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.

5 months ago, Human Resources
Aiken Scholars Academy. #1 High school in South Carolina.
Think About It Thursday: Employee Perks at ACPSD

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!
5 months ago, Human Resources
Employee Perks 10% off. The Wilcox, Maxwell Law Firm, Lionel Smith, LTD., Hotels.com. Aiken County Public Schools.
Work for Us Wednesday! |We want YOU!

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!
5 months ago, Human Resources
We want you for NJROTC. Nearest recruiter. Michelle Lorio. Aiken County Public Schools.
Team Member Tuesday | Meet Alex Rhoden!

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."
5 months ago, Human Resources
Black and White photo of a smiling woman.
SHINE | Sunday Spotlight

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
6 months ago, Human Resources
Shine ACPSD Staff Shout Out Sunday, September 7, 2025 Presented by ACPSD's Teacher Forum
Judy Bowles	 Belvedere & Clearwater Elementary Special Education Clerk	 Judy has gone out of her way to be so helpful to the special education teachers  in her new role as our sped secretary!! She is willing help in any way possible and we are able to focus on teaching.  She is greatly appreciated!!!	 Jane Ayers
Jennifer Powell	 Mossy Creek Elementary MLL Teacher	 Jennifer Powell SHINES as an ML Specialist!  At Mossy Creek and Belvedere, she teaches her multilingual learners with passion, grit, and grace, ensuring students reach their goals. Her positivity uplifts teachers, inspiring them to go the extra mile for their ML students. Jennifer’s dedication, creativity, and determination make a real difference in student success. She’s truly one in a million and a shining star in our district!
Admin Team Jefferson Elementary	 John Metts, Cristine Raines, & Dr. Gwendolyn Ivey Shout out to Mr. Metts, Mrs. Raines, and Dr. Ivy for modeling true leadership daily! Whether its leading instruction, sweating through car line, re-centering frustrated students, or even battling wasps and stray dogs, they never hesitate to roll up their sleeves. Their “How can I help?” attitude sets the tone for a culture of teamwork and care across our school. Their sincerity and encouragement remind us we’re valued, not just numbers. Thank you for leading with heart and showing up for us all!
Jeffery Boyd 	 Clearwater Elementary 5th Grade Teacher	 Mr. Boyd does such a great job keeping students engaged with small groups and building relationships with all the students! Every student who has him as a teacher blessed to have him! Thank You Mr. Boyd for all your hard work at CES!
Carpentry Team	 Maintenance Carpentry Workers	 Thanks to the carpentry team for repairing multiple items on campus. Our campus is safer and more comfortable because of your efforts and we appreciate everything you do for our school and community.
Cheryl Wren 	 Aiken County Career and Technology Center  Instructional Aide	 Ms. Wren is always ready to assist where needed, either in the front office, parking lot or covering a class. Her main focus is the students and being able to support. Her kindness is contagious and her work ethic is appreciated.
James Howard	 South Aiken High School Business Education Teacher	 Fantastic Accounting Teacher!  Thank you for your hard work and dedication to your students to keep them learning and engaged.  You are appreciated.
See a Teacher or Staff Member Shine Shout Out @ acpsd.net/shine
Feature Friday Shoutout!

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!
6 months ago, Human Resources
6 people holding plaques and smiling with mugs of sweets and balloons.
Think About It Thursday! | Employee Perk Alert!

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!
6 months ago, Human Resources
Support our athletes. Sporting events. Free admission with ACPSD badge. Aiken County Public Schools.