Welcome to some new faces at HSMS this year. We are so excited for each of you to join our staff! Pictured from left to right at Ashley Sutherland - Assistant Principal, Blaine Beale - Science Teacher, Nickole Williams - ELA Teacher, Valery Dinkins - ELA Teacher, Katarina Molchen - SPED Teacher, and Megan Ball - Assistant Principal

5 days ago, Megan Whitney Ball
New hires to HSMS

Mark your calendars for this year's completely free Back to School Bash, hosted by community organizer Victoria Paloma!

This exciting event will take place on July 18th, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Roy Warner Park (6021 Roy Warner Park LN, Wagener, SC 29164) to help students kick off the school year with confidence.

Available on a first-come, first-served basis, children can receive free bookbags, school supplies, brand-new outfits, shoes, gift cards, fresh haircuts, professional hair braiding, food, and much more.

Please see the attached flyer for more information.

20 days ago, Aiken County Public School District
Flyer advertising a Back To School Bash in Wagener, SC. There will be free bookbags, food, clothes, shoes, gift cards and more. Contact Victoria at 803-681-0162 with questions or more information.
The curtain has closed on another incredible acGATEWAY summer! From stunning artwork to memorable performances, students spent the past several weeks learning, creating, and growing as artists. Congratulations to everyone who helped make the 2026 program such a special experience. Interested in joining the next generation of acGATEWAY artists? Keep an eye out for 2027 audition and application information coming this fall! #acGATEWAY #ACPSD

25 days ago, Aiken County Public School District
acGATEWAY students posing at the end of a performance on stage.
acGATEWAY creative writing students  on stage giving a performance.
acGATEWAY elementary dance students performing.
acGATEWAY Choir on stage perfoming.
acGATEWAY dance students pose for a picture with their instructor after the show.
acGATEWAY students artwork on display.
acGATEWAY student poses in front of her artwork.

PALMETTO CIVICS PROJECT AN INITIATIVE OF THE SC DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Families are invited to participate in Summer SC 250 activities as South Carolina prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and our state’s important role in our nation’s history. These summer activities provide meaningful opportunities for students and families to learn, explore, and connect with local and state history. Take part and help celebrate South Carolina’s rich history, heritage, and contributions to our country.

The Palmetto Civics Project is a resource-rich initiative designed to foster students’ understanding of and respect for the institutions that sustain our civic life. Our goal is simple but profound: every South Carolina graduate will leave school prepared to embrace the privileges and the responsibilities of American citizenship.

Please visit SC Palmetto Civics Project to learn more.

about 1 month ago, Aiken County Public School District
Logo for the South Carolina Palmetto Civics Project an Initiative of The SC Department of Education.
But wait... you thought it was summer!

We hate to be the ones to mention school supplies already, but now is the perfect time to start watching for those back-to-school sales.

School supply lists are now available, and the first day of school will be here before you know it!

6th Grade
One 1.5” or 2" binder
3 Composition notebooks (Math, Science, ELA)
1 Composition notebook (if you are taking AVID)
Pencil pouch
2 Plastic folders with prongs/pockets
Scissors
Pencils & cap erasers
Colored pencils
Notebook paper
Glue sticks
Dry-erase markers & eraser (Math)
Dividers (one pack)
Highlighters
Earbuds (wired only)
Refillable plastic water bottle (no metal)

7th Grade
3-ring binder (one to house all classes)
Dividers
Notebook paper
3 composition notebooks
Writing utensils – pencil
Pink Eraser
Colored pencils
Highlighters
Dry-erase Markers
Ruler
Handheld pencil sharpener
Glue sticks
Scissors
Earbuds (wired only)

8th Grade
3-ring binder
Colored pencils
Composition notebooks
Crayons or markers
Earbuds (wired only)
Folders with pockets
Glue sticks
Highlighters
Loose-leaf notebook paper (wide or
college ruled)
Math folder
Mechanical pencils (optional)
Pencils
Pens (blue, black)
Scissors
Spiral notebooks
(one for each subject)
Sticky notes
about 1 month ago, Highland Springs Middle School
26-27 Supply list

Healthy Meals at No Cost This Summer!

The Seamless Summer Meal Program is back for Summer 2026! We are dedicated to ensuring school-age children and eligible individuals have access to nutritious foods to learn, play, and grow all summer long.

Here is everything you need to know about locations, dates, and times:

Program Details

  • Who Qualifies: Healthy meals are served at no cost to school-age children 18 years & under, as well as disabled persons/children 21 years and under who are enrolled in school.

  • Onsite Policy: All meals MUST be eaten onsite.

  • Adult Meals: Adults are welcome to eat with their children! Adult meals can be purchased at the following rates: Breakfast: $3.20 | Lunch: $5.50.

Elementary School Locations

When: Monday – Thursday, June 1 – June 18 Times: Breakfast: 7:00 AM - 7:30 AM | Lunch: 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

  • Belvedere Elementary: 115 Monterey Ave, North Augusta | 803-442-6330

  • Busbee Elementary: 20 A. L. Corbett Circle, Wagener | 839-846-7008

  • Graniteville Elementary: 1 Willis Circle, Graniteville | 803-663-9998

  • JD Lever Elementary: 2404 Columbia Hwy, Aiken | 803-641-2760

  • Redcliffe Elementary: 22 Double Springs Rd, Aiken | 803-827-3350

  • Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary: 1081 Trojan Road, Monetta | 839-846-7010

High School Locations

When: Monday – Thursday, June 1 – June 25 Times: Breakfast: 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM | Lunch: 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

  • Aiken High School: 449 Rutland Drive, Aiken | 803-641-2500

  • Midland Valley High: 227 Mustang Drive, Graniteville | 803-593-7100

  • North Augusta High: 2000 Knobcone Ave, North Augusta | 803-442-6100

  • Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle/High: 21071 Trojan Road, Monetta | 803-846-7010

  • Silver Bluff High: 64 Desoto Drive, Aiken | 803-652-8100

  • South Aiken High: 223 East Pine Log Road, Aiken | 803-641-2600

  • Wagener-Salley High: 326 Seivern Road, Wagener | 839-846-7006

Questions?

If you have any questions, please reach out to our Child Nutrition Program Director:

about 1 month ago, Aiken County Public School District
Flyer for Chartwells Seamless Summer Meal Program. Healthy Meals at No cost. It lists the Elementary & High School Locations as well as the times. If you have questions, please contact Ebonee Maxwell at EMaxwell@acpsd.net or 803-991-3408.

Healthy Meals at No Cost This Summer!

The Seamless Summer Meal Program is back for Summer 2026! We are dedicated to ensuring school-age children and eligible individuals have access to nutritious foods to learn, play, and grow all summer long.

Here is everything you need to know about locations, dates, and times:

Program Details

  • Who Qualifies: Healthy meals are served at no cost to school-age children 18 years & under, as well as disabled persons/children 21 years and under who are enrolled in school.

  • Onsite Policy: All meals MUST be eaten onsite.

  • Adult Meals: Adults are welcome to eat with their children! Adult meals can be purchased at the following rates: Breakfast: $3.20 | Lunch: $5.50.

Elementary School Locations

When: Monday – Thursday, June 1 – June 18 Times: Breakfast: 7:00 AM - 7:30 AM | Lunch: 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

  • Belvedere Elementary: 115 Monterey Ave, North Augusta | 803-442-6330

  • Busbee Elementary: 20 A. L. Corbett Circle, Wagener | 839-846-7008

  • Graniteville Elementary: 1 Willis Circle, Graniteville | 803-663-9998

  • JD Lever Elementary: 2404 Columbia Hwy, Aiken | 803-641-2760

  • Redcliffe Elementary: 22 Double Springs Rd, Aiken | 803-827-3350

  • Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary: 1081 Trojan Road, Monetta | 839-846-7010

High School Locations

When: Monday – Thursday, June 1 – June 25 Times: Breakfast: 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM | Lunch: 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

  • Aiken High School: 449 Rutland Drive, Aiken | 803-641-2500

  • Midland Valley High: 227 Mustang Drive, Graniteville | 803-593-7100

  • North Augusta High: 2000 Knobcone Ave, North Augusta | 803-442-6100

  • Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle/High: 21071 Trojan Road, Monetta | 803-846-7010

  • Silver Bluff High: 64 Desoto Drive, Aiken | 803-652-8100

  • South Aiken High: 223 East Pine Log Road, Aiken | 803-641-2600

  • Wagener-Salley High: 326 Seivern Road, Wagener | 839-846-7006

Questions?

If you have any questions, please reach out to our Child Nutrition Program Director:

about 1 month ago, Aiken County Public School District
Flyer for Chartwells Seamless Summer Meal Program. Healthy Meals at No cost. It lists the Elementary & High School Locations as well as the times. If you have questions, please contact Ebonee Maxwell at EMaxwell@acpsd.net or 803-991-3408.

Graduation week is here, and we can’t wait to celebrate the Class of 2026 at their commencement ceremonies being held at USC Aiken's Convocation Center!

To help graduation attendees enjoy a smooth, stress-free day, please remember that there will be metal detection upon arrival. We kindly ask that you review the attached graphic for prohibited items, such as bags, balloons, and outside food, so you can leave those items safely in your vehicle before heading to the entrance.

Additionally, because the lobby can become crowded after the ceremony, please plan to meet your graduate outside the venue once the event concludes.

Thank you so much for your help in keeping this milestone safe, smooth, and unforgettable for everyone!

Upcoming Graduation dates and times are below for your convenience. Tickets are limited due to space, but we invite everyone to cheer on the Class of 2026 virtually by accessing the live streamed ceremonies on our website at www.acpsd.net/graduation.

District Completer Ceremony: May 27, 2026 | 5:00pm
Wagener-Salley High School: May 27, 2026 | 7:00pm
North Augusta High School: May 28, 2026 | 2:00pm
Aiken Scholars Academy: May 28, 2026 | 5:00pm
Aiken High School: May 28, 2026 | 8:00pm
Silver Bluff High School: May 29, 2026 | 9:00am
Ridge Spring-Monetta High School: May 29, 2026 | 12:00pm
South Aiken High School: May 29, 2026 | 3:00pm
Midland Valley High School: May 29, 2026 | 7:00pm

#ACPSD2026Grads #ACPSDCelebrates #ACPSDGraduation

about 2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
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Register Your Student for the 2026-27 School Year

New and Returning Student Registration is underway for the upcoming 2026-27 School Year.


Please take a few minutes to review the registration information at www.acpsd.net/register or go directly to your parent portal in PowerSchool at http://aiken.powerschool.com/public.

For returning students, registration takes just a few minutes through your parent portal account as the student’s existing registration information will pre-populate. Please review and change any information that needs updating and ensure that up-to-date emergency contact information is included for each student.


Registering your student now helps us get ready to welcome your student back after the summer and ensure a smooth start to next school year, allowing teachers and classrooms to be assigned to serve your student on day one.
We thank you, as always, for your partnership in an excellent educational experience.


#ACPSDRegistration #ReturningStudentRegistration #SouthCarolinaSchoolRegistration #AikenSchoolRegistration

about 2 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
High school aged students in a classroom with "new and returning student registration is open" and url of www.acpsd.net/register for more info.
Reminder, Riverhawks! Ticket sales for the Student vs. Faculty Basketball Game will only take place on Tuesday and Thursday of next week during lunch.
Tickets are $2, so be sure to grab yours before time runs out! Who will take the win — students or faculty?
about 2 months ago, Highland Springs Middle School
Avid basketball tourney
Congratulations to the following Riverhawks for being accepted into the ACPSD Summer Arts Program GATEWAY!

Lillyanna Wolfe, Jacob Naranjo, Joshua Bowen, Lucas Jester, Ruby Lamberth, Carrington Everett

We are proud of your creativity, talent, and hard work. Have an amazing summer of artistic exploration and learning!
about 2 months ago, Highland Springs Middle School
Congrats artists
The North Augusta Department of Public Safety is offering an exciting opportunity for students this summer through the Teens Citizens Academy!

This free, hands-on program gives students the chance to meet public safety professionals, explore police equipment, see fire apparatus up close, and build leadership skills.

Day 1: June 29 — Middle school students (grades 6–8)
Day 2: June 30 — High school students (grades 9–12)

Only students attending City of North Augusta schools are eligible, and space is limited, so apply early!

To request an application, email Chooper@northaugustasc.gov
2 months ago, Highland Springs Middle School
Safety Academy
Attention 6th & 7th grade families!

Looking for a great summer opportunity? The Aiken County Career and Technology Center is hosting a FREE Summer Camp June 1–4, from 8:00 AM–3:00 PM each day!

Students can choose up to three hands-on courses, with options like culinary arts, cosmetology, nail design, robotics, diesel technology, and more—all led by ACCTC instructors.

Applications are due Wednesday, May 13
Apply here: forms.office.com/r/mxyk7TgFvw
Or scan the QR code on the flyer!

Don’t miss this chance for your student to learn new skills and explore future interests in a fun, engaging environment!
3 months ago, Highland Springs Middle School
CTE Summer Academy 2026
We are proud to introduce our Sideline Cheer Team!

Congratulations to those selected—we are excited for the season ahead!

To everyone who tried out: thank you for your bravery, effort, and positive attitude. Keep shining and growing. We are proud of each of you!

Adalynn Wood, Aubrey Bullard, Dalashia Kearse, Emily Zimmerman, Lillie Jeffcoat, Marlee Edney, Natalie Harrison, Sasha Whitaker, Sierra Andrades, Skylar Jones, Sophia Woriax, and Trinity Escalante

Please note the parent and cheerleader meeting April 30 at 5:30 p.m. in the Media Center.
3 months ago, Highland Springs Middle School
26.27 cheer team roster

Join us in celebrating the creativity and talent of our students at the 2026 ACPSD Fine Arts Festival! The community is invited to experience an inspiring showcase of the arts, featuring performances by our talented student groups on Friday, May 1st at 5:00 PM.

Additionally, come explore a vibrant collection of K–12 artwork on display throughout downtown at the Aiken Center for the Arts, highlighting the imagination and skill of students across the district. Whether you enjoy visual art, music, or live performances, this festival offers something for everyone.

Bring your family and friends and be a part of this exciting celebration of the arts in our community!

3 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
2026 ACPSD Fine Arts Festival  May 2, 2026 | 10 am - 2 pm, Aiken Center for the Arts 122 Laurens St, SW Aiken, SC 29801.
HSMS Cheer Auditions have been rescheduled!

Originally set for April 24, auditions will now begin at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, April 27.

Bring your energy and Riverhawk pride. We can’t wait to see you there!

Questions? Contact Coach Rood at crood@acpsd.net
3 months ago, Highland Springs Middle School
Cheer Auditions rescheduled
HSMS Cheer Auditions Update

HSMS Cheer Auditions have been postponed. Auditions will be rescheduled for the week of April 27.

Once the new date is confirmed, it will be shared on school social media and the HSMS website.

For questions, please contact Coach Rood at crood@acpsd.net
3 months ago, Highland Springs Middle School
Cheer auditions postponed
In an abundance of caution and at the recommendation of Emergency Management in response to a fire burning near Interstate 520 at this time, Highland Springs Middle School is dismissing students early from school this afternoon. Parents of car riders are asked to please come get their children at this time. Transportation will be provided to bus riders.Please use caution as the fire has not been contained. All after school activities will be cancelled.
3 months ago, Aiken County Public School District
Travel, Passport, Adventure!

Join us for the HSMS Band Spring Concert as our Riverhawk musicians take you on a musical journey around the world!

-May 12
-5:30 p.m.
-HSMS Cafe

Come support our talented band students and enjoy an evening of music and adventure!
3 months ago, Highland Springs Middle School
Spring Band Concert
Our HSMS PTO needs your help!
Donations are now being accepted to support special end-of-year activities for our Riverhawks, including Teacher Appreciation Week, the Semester Two Celebration, and the 8th Grade Farewell Nacho Bar.
If you would like to contribute, simply use the QR code in the graphic or the link below. Monetary donations will be accepted through May 22.
Thank you for helping make these celebrations possible for our students and staff!
Make a donation: https://shorturl.at/1HpbK
3 months ago, Meredith Poldrack Segrist
PTO needs donations