Winter 20 + Spring 21

Elesha Ellison Named Counselor of the Year IN THIS ISSUE Elesha Ellison, the Lead Counselor of Apple Award, which is presented to Stars of Public Education 4 Silver Blu High School, was named the outstanding educators in the CSRA. statewide School Counselor Math Masters 7 Ms. Ellison began her career in Aiken of the Year by the Palmetto County during the 2006-07 school year Aiken Works Update 9 State School Counselor as a special education aide at Schofi eld Association! As the High The Arts 12 Middle School. She also worked as a school School Counselor of the counselor at Redcli e Elementary School Memorials 13 Year, she will represent and as the Freshman Academy Counselor not only our District but at Midland Valley High School. In 2016 Athletic News 14 the state of South Carolina she moved to Silver Blu High School as well during the American where she held the title of Lead School School Counselor Association Counselor until the end of the 2020-21 conference next year. school year when she accepted the role Nominated for this award by Aiken County of the school’s Assistance Principal. Public Schools’ Director of Student “I’m so humbled by this award,” Services Carl White, Ms. Ellison is well commented Ms. Ellison. “I’m just so grateful respected among her peers and is known to have had such amazing support during for being student focused and solution my career from all my former colleagues driven. She is also the fi rst counselor to everyone here at Silver Blu .” Read more about our to ever receive the prestigious Golden Cyber Stars on page 11

Aiken County Scripps Spelling Bee Winners Advance to Regionals Congratulations to Kennedy Middle Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, Congratulations to the 2021 School eighth grader Liam King who NC in March. Aiken County Scripps won fi rst place in the 2021 Aiken County Congratulations to all of this year’s Scripps Spelling Bee in February! This was Spelling Bee winner, Liam King! spelling bee participants, including Liam his fi rst time making it to the fi nal round King (Kennedy Middle School); Dorien of the bee and his fi nal year of eligibility Coleman (Jackson STEM Magnet Middle making this an event he won’t soon forget. School); Jasper Brannen (Leavelle Correctly spelling the words “kernel” and McCampbell Middle School); Serenity “frivolous” consecutively, Liam received an Butler (Clearwater Elementary School); iPad, a $100 gift card to Books-A-Million, Sarah Cliett (Clearwater Elementary and a $100 Apple gift card from spelling School); Katie Ellis (Paul Knox Middle bee sponsor Savannah River Remediation School); Annabelle Harris (East Aiken as well as a commemorative plaque from School of the Arts); Olive Kelly (Aiken The Aiken Standard. Intermediate School); Mia McAdory Finishing as the county spelling bee’s (North Augusta Middle School); Justin runner-up was Jackson STEM Magnet Brown (New Ellenton Middle STEAM Middle School eighth grader Dorien Magnet School); Lizbeth Segura Rosas Coleman. Both Liam and Dorien were (Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle School); invited to participate in the regional and Jacob Steelman (Warrenville spelling bee at the Carolina Panthers’ Elementary School). 62 3

Learning Virtually Everywhere Aiken Lead In Creates Career Pathways Aiken County Public School Aiken Lead In, created to allow employees to explore opportunities and cultivate District (ACPSD) launched the 1:1 a career pathway, produced 36 course completers in its inaugural cohort. Led by technology initiative, “Learning Dr. Sal Minolfo, Director of Administration, and Meagan Cothran, Coordinator for Virtually Everywhere”, which Training and Development, this series of workshops allowed District leaders to placed technology devices with all students from grades showcase each department and provide a better idea of career prospects. 2 through 12 to ensure they have the means necessary to Congratulations to Aiken Lead In completers Elizabeth Anderson, Kennedy Middle, learn even during the Covid-19 pandemic. AIKEN iNNOVATE Stephanie Behrendt, District Communications, Megan Bell, Paul Knox Middle, Ashley students received laptops in October, followed by high Clark, Belvedere Elementary, Sonya Corley, Aiken Elementary, Thomas Crane, LBC school, middle school, and then elementary school students. Middle, Erin Davis, North Aiken Elementary, Anetra Fish, District Special Programs, More than 1,500 Hotspots were issued to families that do Brittney Gregory, Redcli e Elementary, Joshua Hadden, North Augusta Elementary, not have internet access at home. Tomia Holmes, Millbrook Elementary, Everett Lederer, Chukker Creek Elementary, As devices were handed out Instructional sta met with Tanesha Lewis, North Augusta Middle, Heather Logan, Paul Knox Middle, Meghann educators to provide training on the new software, allowing Lybrand, Redcli e Elementary, Sarah Maney, Mossy Creek Elementary, Misty educators to better assist their students. McConnell, Redcli e Elementary, Devone McKie, Hammond Hill Elementary, Karla , District Special Programs, , A.L. Corbett Middle, “The Technology sta has done a tremendous job of working Moldovan Alicia Moody Jessica , Hammond Hill Elementary, , Aiken Elementary, day and night to get laptops in the hands of students. To Nealious Caroline O’Byrne Crystal , Clearwater Elementary, , Redcli e Elementary, say it was a monumental task is an understatement!” said Oerman Daniel Osborne Emily Owens, North Augusta Elementary, Marquita Rawlings, North Aiken Elementary, Don Pencille, Director of Technology. New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet School Assistant Adrian Smith, Wagener-Salley High, Candace Smith, South Aiken High, Glenda Principal Kyle Blankenship works with students to help Smith, South Aiken High, Joshua Snipes, South Aiken High, Ande Stanley, Leavelle McCampbell Middle, Wilton Stone, Kennedy Middle, Scott Sutherland, New Ellenton navigate the new technology. Aiken Scholars New Home Middle STEAM Magnet, Jessica Thomas, Midland Valley High, Miller Thompson, North Augusta High, and Ashley Watson, Chukker Creek Elementary. Superintendent King Laurence (from left), Construction has begun for the new Aiken Scholars Academy located on campus at the University of South Aiken Scholars Academy Principal Martha Messick, Carolina Aiken, and the new site will be ready for the 2021- and Dr. Sandra Jordan, Chancellor of UofSC Aiken 22 school year. The school, which currently holds three Month of the Military Child Celebrated cohorts of students in the Ruth Patrick Science Education are excited to break ground. Coordinated by , the District’s Military Community Liaison, the Center, has outgrown the facility. Sondra Thomas month of April featured numerous District and school events in honor of Military- The new facility will place Aiken Scholars Academy connected students and families during the Month of the Military Child. Schools A stunning bulletin board celebrating and students in close proximity to the university’s emerging participated in “Purple Up” day by wearing the color purple, which is a combination honoring Military students hangs in the research and technology hub, which will be home to the of Air Force blue, Army green, Navy blue, Marine red, and Coast Guard blue, in a DreamPort Cybersecurity Collaborative with the Savannah way to demonstrate our support for military families. Each school was challenged hallway at A.L. Corbett Middle School. River National Laboratory and S.C. National Guard and to the Walk a Mile in Their Shoes Walk-a-Thon, where they collaborated to log at the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative with the U.S. least 589 miles during the month of April to represent the 589 military-connected Busbee Elementary Students Department of Energy. students. Many Physical Education teachers participated by having students walk a surround Military Community mile during class in April to achieve the goal. Across the District, students and sta The Ruth Patrick Science Education Center has been a Liaison Sondra Thomas before their high-quality home for Aiken Scholars Academy since logged more than 20,000 miles! Walk-a-Thon began. opening with its fi rst cohort of 50 students in the fall of Being the state’s fi rst Purple Star School District, Thomas said it’s so important 2018, but as the school prepares to add a fourth cohort to to recognize our Military children to address struggles with academic and bring its student population to 200, a new home featuring social challenges attributed to frequent changes, deployment, injury or loss of an expanded footprint and additional student-centered a parent. amenities was needed.

District Partnership With CyberPatriot Center of Rural Health Services O ers Excellence of the Year Award Dr. Tom Clark, Executive Director of the CSRA Alliance Optional Employee Vaccinations for Fort Gordon, recognized the District for the ACPSD partnered with Rural Health Services to o er all employees an opportunity second consecutive year with a CyberPatriot Center of to receive the two-step Moderna Covid-19 vaccine. Clinics were held at six schools Excellence of the Year Award. The plaque, presented across the District with the initial dose given in March and the second dose given to Superintendent Laurence in December, is an honor in April. awarded to organizations, institutions, or municipalities “The health, safety, and security of our employees and students is our top priority” that excel in emphasizing and supporting cybersecurity stated Superintendent King Laurence. “We appreciate Rural Health’s generous and developing the workforce of tomorrow. commitment of resources and sta to ensure that every Aiken County Public School employee who wishes to take the vaccine will have the ability to receive it.” 4 5 2021-22 STARS OF PUBLIC EDUCATION School Board Recognition Month The 2021-22 Stars of Public Education honorees are outstanding individuals who Each January the South Carolina School Boards constantly give their all and prove to be the best in their fi eld. During Teacher Association celebrates School Board Recognition Appreciation Week the Teacher of the Year Honor Court, First Year Teacher of the Year Month, and we take time to say thank you to our Board of Education members for all they do to support our Honor Court, and Giving Even More (GEM) Honor Court members were announced with a “We truly have an amazing group administration, our schools, teachers, and students. of stars here in Aiken County Public surprise visit from Superintendent Laurence and Chief O cers. Assistant Principal of the Board members faced incredible challenges this year, Schools and it is always exciting to be met many times, held long discussions, heard from Year and Principal of the Year Honor Courts were named during a Principals’ Meeting. able to honor those who are among the thousands of constituents, students, and employees, and have made tough decisions a ecting nearly very best in their profession.” 25,000 students and 4,000 employees! As a small Watch for winners to be named in the next edition of The Path! token of the District’s appreciation, each board King Laurence member was presented with a unique, student- Aiken County Superintendent created piece of art by Superintendent King Laurence, CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR STARS LISTED to be displayed in the Board Room. BELOW WITH HONOR COURT MEMBERS IN BOLD: Thank you to the following student artists for providing a beautiful gift and sharing your talent! Emma Jean Poole, Wagener-Salley High Freshman; TEACHER OF THE YEAR HONOREES Jordan Chavous (Hammond Hill Elementary School); School); Corey Holsenback (Division of Finance); Shirley Jones Sara Rosier, Silver Blu High Freshman; Katelynn Carolyn Anderson (Schofi eld Middle School); Allison Whitney Chipman (South Aiken High School); Sherri Drafts (Cyril B. Busbee Elementary School); Tracey Marie Johnson Case, North Augusta High Senior; Hannah Lamb, Bennett (Aiken Intermediate School); Marcia Lee Blizzard (North Aiken Elementary School); Kathleen Evans (Chukker (A.L. Corbett Elementary School); Michelle Lee (Division of North Augusta High Sophomore; Alea Crespo, Aiken (A.L. Corbett Elementary School); Erika Carlton (Center For Creek Elementary School); Kristy Ghrist (Aiken High School); Instruction); Philip Luton (Kennedy Middle School); Cheryl May High Sophomore; Graham Hucks, Aiken High Junior; Innovative Learning at Pinecrest); Amelia Clark (Gloverville Cassandra Glovier (North Augusta Elementary School); (Belvedere Elementary School); Kathy McCann (North Augusta Lia Hancock, South Aiken High Senior; Alison Elementary); Jimmy Clark (Greendale Elementary School); Kayla Hawn (Leavelle McCampbell Middle School); Candice High School); Judy Moulton (Byrd Elementary School); Agnes Ramirez, Midland Valley High Senior; and Ryan Carole Collum (Kennedy Middle School); Nicole Conaway Holbrooks (Clearwater Elementary School); Isabelle Holland Norton (Paul Knox Middle School); Linda Palmer (Ridge Spring- Hicks, a Class of 2020 graduate from Midland Valley (Clearwater Elementary School); DeAnn Coursey (North (Warrenville Elementary School); Jordan Horton (Graniteville Monetta Elementary School); Chanda Pernell (East Aiken School High School. Aiken Elementary School); Kimberley Devine (XSEL); Anna Elementary School); Holley Hughes (Oakwood-Windsor of the Arts); Janet Powell (Je erson Elementary School); Kelly Each board member also signed the South Carolina Evenson (Graniteville Elementary School); Brenda Gallardo Elementary School); Katelyn Jones (Gloverville Elementary Ravello (Center For Innovative Learning at Pinecrest); Amanda School Board Member Ethical Principles poster (Warrenville Elementary School); Rick Gill (North Augusta School); Leah Kelly (Greendale Elementary School); Alex Robinson (Midland Valley High School); Rashad Roland in January, indicating their public vow to uphold Middle School); Yashonda Goodwin (Paul Knox Middle Kinard (Paul Knox Middle School); Shannan Elizabeth Mas (Division of Operations); Eula Mae Rushton (Ridge Spring- e ective governance principles and pledge to School); Jessica Graves (Chukker Creek Elementary School); (A.L. Corbett Elementary School); Alyse Meierhenry (Byrd Monetta Middle School); Ruby Smith (Gloverville Elementary improve public education in Aiken County. Rosalyn Greene (Langley-Bath-Clearwater Middle School); Elementary School); Lauren Miskinis (Schofi eld Middle School); Chrissy Still (Division of Human Resources); Valdreana Shannon Green (East Aiken School of the Arts); Taylor School); Taylor Morris (Cyril B. Busbee Elementary School); Suggs (North Aiken Elementary School); Penny Summer (J.D. Harling (Redcli e Elementary School); Bridgett Harter (Cyril Charlotte Noel Moore (Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle School); Lever Elementary School); Donna Washington (Schofi eld Middle District 1 School Board B. Busbee Elementary School); Ashley Leaphart (Oakwood- Kristen Payton (East Aiken School of the Arts); Ariel Pearson School); Sharon Williams (Redcli e Elementary School); Hunter representative Sandra Windsor Elementary School); Keely Lillard (Byrd Elementary (Midland Valley High School); Stephanie Redd (Aiken County Wilson (Aiken High School); Sheila Withers (New Ellenton School); Nichole Mack (Silver Blu High School); Ola Martin Career and Technology Center); Sydney Renfroe (Belvedere Middle STEAM Magnet School); and Victor Yarborough (South Shealey accepts artwork from (South Aiken High School); Danielle Martin-Abernathy (J.D. Elementary School); Lauren Walker (Aiken Elementary Aiken High School). Superintendent King Laurence Lever Elementary School); Gail Moody-Johnson (Ridge School); Darius Washington (Silver Blu High School); Sarah Spring-Monetta High School); Alyson Moots (Aiken Scholars Williams-Shealy (Wagener-Salley High School); and Cathleen ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL in honor of School Board Academy); Venning Morrison (Wagener-Salley High School); Woenker (North Augusta Middle School). OF THE YEAR HONOREES Recognition Month. Kristine Pencille (Je erson Elementary School); Amanda Pond Kyle Blankenship (New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet (Hammond Hill Elementary School); Jennifer Prescott (North GIVING EVEN MORE School); John “Allen” Burnham (Wagener-Salley High School); Augusta Elementary School); Danille Quattlebaum (Jackson (GEM) HONOREES Eugene Bush Rodgers (Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary STEM Magnet Middle School); Jason Redd (Aiken High Sherry Abney (Aiken County Career and Technology School); Lindsey Hager (North Augusta Elementary School); School); Christopher Roberts (Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle Center); Gena Adams (Chukker Creek Elementary School); Alisa Hamrick (Aiken High School); Annabeth Harbeson (East School); Tonya Rodgers (Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary Lisa Altemose (Oakwood-Windsor Elementary School); Aiken School of the Arts); Steven Paul Kolodizieizyck (Leavelle School); Trina Smith (Aiken County Career and Technology Kelia Andrews (Warrenville Elementary); Angela Beaty McCampbell Middle School); Kamar Lee (Schofi eld Middle Center); Ann Stau er (Millbrook Elementary School); Ashley (Clearwater Elementary School); Bobbi Boatwright School); Nathan Lobaugh (Oakwood-Windsor Elementary Sutherland (North Augusta Middle School); Donna Tipton (Graniteville Elementary School); Da’Mon Bradley (Greendale School); Kristin Risher (North Augusta High School); and Leroy (Mossy Creek Elementary School); Jodi Trapp (Belvedere Elementary School); Marcia Bush (Mossy Creek Elementary Walker (Aiken Elementary School). Elementary School); Keisha Uhle (Aiken Elementary School); School); Leonard Bynem (Wagener-Salley High School); Christine Walcott (New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet Christine Collins (Hammond Hill Elementary School); Christy PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR HONOREES School); Sara Anne Wood (Leavelle McCampbell Middle Collins (Millbrook Elementary School); Paula DeJong (Aiken Shunte Dugar (New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet School); School); and Bianca Woodard (Midland Valley High School). Elementary School); Tyrone Deloach (Jackson STEM Magnet Lisa Fallaw (East Aiken School of the Arts); Dr. Scott Floyd Middle School); Amanda Derrick (Ridge Spring-Monetta High (Schofi eld Middle School); Charlene Heard (Warrenville FIRST YEAR TEACHER School); Helen Drayton (Silver Blu High School); David Elam Elementary School); Callie Herlong (Ridge Spring-Monetta OF THE YEAR HONOREES (Aiken Intermediate School); Rumona Frazier (XSEL); Edese Elementary School); Eric Je coat (Hammond Hill Elementary Jillian Barrera (Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary School); Grant (North Augusta Middle School); Sherri Gomez (Leavelle School); Sidney Johnson (Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle School); Sydney Bachman (Langley-Bath-Clearwater Elementary McCampbell Middle School); Lisa Harris (North Augusta and Patricia Wilson (North Augusta Elementary School). School); Carrissa Brown (New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet Elementary School); Nancy Hash (Freedman Early Learning School); Hallie Brubaker (Millbrook Elementary School); Center); Lisa Herrera (Langley-Bath-Clearwater Middle 6 7 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching Congratulations to John Hostetler of Aiken High School and Sharonda Jacobs AWARDS AND HONORS of Aiken Scholars Academy for being fi nalists in the prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST)! The PAEMST are the highest honors bestowed by the US government specifi cally for K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science teaching with only 108 exemplary teachers recognized by the President each year. The award recognizes educators with both deep content knowledge and the ability to motivate and enable students to be successful in those areas. The winner will be honored at an award ceremony in Washington, D.C., receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation, and participate in professional development opportunities and discussions with policy makers on how to improve science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science education. Best of luck, Mr. Hostetler and Ms. Jacobs!

1 2 3 4 5

Chief O cer Earns SCASBO Award Teacher Honored For Chief O cer of Finance Tray Traxler was presented the Over 50 Years of Service Outstanding South Carolina School Business O cial Award by the South Carolina Association of School Business O cials J.D. Lever Elementary School teacher Melanie Driscoll was (SCASBO)! This award is given annually to a SCASBO member honored by State Representative Bill Taylor with a S.C. State who demonstrates exemplary service to their school district, House Resolution during Teacher Appreciation Week in May their profession, their colleagues, and their communities. The for her impeccable record of more than 50 years of service school district continues to receive annual recognition for its in public education. Ms. Driscoll started teaching in 1970 and fi nancial standing under Mr. Traxler’s leadership. 1 has spent 48 years in the Aiken County Public School District, currently serving as a Special Education teacher. Micki Dove Receives Thank you for your dedication, Ms. Driscoll! 4 Robert E. Alexander Midland Valley Employee Earns Outstanding Administrator Career Specialist of the Year of the Year Award Midland Valley High School Career Specialist Areshia Masters Math Masters was named the 2021 Lower Savannah Region Career Specialist Micki Dove, Director of Curriculum Support, was honored by Dr. Congratulations to the fi rst Math Masters cohort comprised Coleman (Je erson Elementary School); Jessica Cutler (East Gary Senn, Director of the University of South Carolina-Aiken’s of the Year in May. She has served as a Career Specialist for of teachers and content interventionists who spent the last Aiken School of the Arts); Julianne Dove (Greendale Elementary Ruth Patrick Science Education Center as he presented her with Aiken County Public Schools since 2007, beginning her career two years in a rigorous program of study with students’ best School); Sarah Emerling (Hammond Hill Elementary School); the Robert E. Alexander Outstanding Administrator of the Year at Midland Valley High, she later transitioned to Leavelle interests at heart! The partnership between ACPSD and the Kimberly Floyd (Aiken High School); Sharon Gregory (Midland Award. The award is given to one administrator annually who McCampbell Middle School for four years, and is now back at University of South Carolina has developed a core of 32 highly Valley High School); Katelynn Howell (North Augusta Middle promotes STEM curriculum in grades K-12. Midland Valley High. e ective Master mathematics teachers who are now serving School); Shane Hutto (Busbee Elementary School); Jocelyn in a peer-leadership role throughout our schools. Facilitated Jones (Schofi eld Middle School); Alecia Kinard (Aiken Mrs. Dove had served ACPSD for more than seven years as a “Ms. Masters is a dedicated advocate of CTE, and so deserving of this honor,” stated said Sharon Worley, ACPSD Coordinator by April Slack, ACPSD Middle Level Mathematics Content Intermediate School); April Layfi eld (Millbrook Elementary Content Interventionist and school-based instructional coach Interventionist, the program was designed to develop and School); Steven McLeod (North Augusta Middle School); before being named Director of Curriculum Support in the 2019- of Counseling and Career Specialists. “Not only does she foster personal relationships with students and their families, but she implement innovative instructional practices that lead to Jessica Ouzts (Midland Valley High School); Emily Owens 20 school year. In her current role she monitors, evaluates, and deep conceptual understanding which will help to improve all (North Augusta Elementary School); Heather Parliament manages the development of the District’s curriculum, and was is also a leader among her peers who often seek her advice and input about programing ideas.” students’ achievement in mathematics. (Paul Knox Middle School); April Ray (Oakwood-Windsor selected for the award for her role administratively in expanding Elementary School); Andrea Rexroad (Elementary District Congratulations to Sabrina Amos (North Aiken Elementary and promoting science education. 2 Congratulations Ms. Masters! 5 Content Interventionist); April Slack (Middle Level District School); Katie Anderson (Kennedy Middle School); Richard Content Interventionist); Elaine Smoak (LBC Middle School); Ball (North Augusta High School); Shauna Bashline (New Theresa Spieker (Clearwater Elementary School); Khaleelah Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet School); Jeanette Beck Dawn Bryant Named UofSC Aiken Core 4 Honoree Stroman (Silver Blu High School); Shanythia Thomas (North (Belvedere Elementary School); Tamara Butler (Hammond Congratulations to J.D. Lever Elementary School teacher and University of South Carolina Aiken alumna Dawn Bryant on being Augusta Middle School); Erin Tindle (Paul Knox Middle School); Hill Elementary School); Leah Bynes (J.D. Lever Elementary named as a 2021 Core 4 Award honoree! Annually, four distinguished UofSC alumni who embrace the university’s values of Character, and Debby Turno (Leavelle McCampbell Middle School). School); Cristie Caldwell (Aiken Elementary School); Ti any Citizenship, Curiosity, and Collegiality are recognized as Core 4 honorees. 3

GARDEN OF CHAMPIONS DEDICATED NATIONALLY BOARD CERTIFIED Congratulations to Katie Wilson of Leavelle McCampbell Middle school for obtaining Chukker Creek Elementary School honored retired National Board Certification by successfully completing the rigorous certification process of the Principal Amy Gregory by dedicating the painted horse National Board for Professional Teaching Standards! Recognized as the gold standard in teacher “Champ” in front of the school. Ms. Gregory served in certification, the National Board believes higher standards for teachers means better learning for Aiken County Public Schools for 30 years. students. Ms. Wilson joined the nearly 3 percent of the nation’s teachers that are certified! 8 9 IN THE

A nity Card Provides More “Senior Decisions” Than $40,000 to Schools Video Series Aiken Works and the Aiken High School Counseling The A nity Debit Card program, provided by SRP Federal Department collaborated to provide “Senior Decisions,” Credit Union, continues to bring success to our schools. an informative, three-part video series for seniors Every time a purchase is made with an SRP high school to showcase Aiken Works’ core belief that there are A nity Debit Card a donation is made to the school of the multiple pathways to success. cardholder’s choice by SRP. The second quarter of 2021 brought in a total of $40,911.70 for our eight high schools Filmed and edited by Aiken High Broadcast Journalism and the Aiken County Career and Technology Center! students, each video provided students and their families with important information related to post-graduation decisions and opportunities available Rotary Clubs Continue Tradition Aiken Standard’s immediately after high school. In a roundtable discussion, local content-area experts from the In keeping with the 20-year long tradition, the Aiken Sunrise Community Christmas Card CSRA served as a panel to answer questions related Rotary, Aiken Rotary, and North Augusta Rotary clubs once to each video’s topic. again came together to provide dictionaries to all third grade Donates Record High The fi rst video explored going to college and how students in Aiken County Public Schools. For the fi rst time, The Aiken Standard’s fourth annual Community Christmas to successfully navigate the admissions process. however, dictionaries were given to teachers to hand out to Card brought an impressive donation which will support The second video considered the option of Military students instead of Rotary members visiting schools for delivery Aiken County Public School students. The local newspaper service and what to expect from Military life. due to Covid-19 safety protocols. invited the community to donate at least one dollar The fi nal video focused on the option to go Each dictionary came with a book plate label that contained the to the campaign and in turn would have contributors’ straight into the workforce and featured best practices Rotary International Four-Way Test, which includes the questions, names printed inside the Christmas Day edition of the on how to be successful on the job. Is it the Truth?, Is it fair to all concerned?, Will it build good will Aiken Standard. Thanks to the generous donations, the and better friendships?, and Will it be benefi cial to all concerned? community donated $6,498.00, the highest donation A special thank you to the Interact Clubs at Aiken High School amount yet! The money will serve ACPSD students in need Aiken Works Hosts and South Aiken High School for helping to sort books, and add to provide clothes, shoes, food, hygiene items, school name plate labels to each book, and our local Rotary Clubs for supplies and more all year long. Virtual Career Fair for continuing the tradition and investing in our students! AIKEN iNNOVATE Students Aiken Works Lead Larry Millstead knew he couldn’t bring full time virtual AIKEN iNNOVATE (Ai) students to a traditional career fair, so he organized the MARCH OF DIMES fi rst Virtual Career Fair In order reach all students, We set a goal to raise $7,000.00 across the District for the March including virtual learners. of Dimes to support healthy babies everywhere, and as always, Nearly 200 Ai students participated in the event by virtually attending workshops which focused on Aiken County Public School District employees came through Health Sciences, Industrial Manufacturing, Nuclear/ in a big way by raising more than double the goal! ACPSD Environmental Sciences, and IT/Cybersecurity. donations totaling $14,276.00 far exceeded any expectations! 1 2 3 Students heard from representatives of Aiken Regional Medical Center, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions Thank you, ACPSD, and congratulations Education Outreach Programs, and Zeus Industrial ACPSD Lives United Products. Each organization conducted a 40-minute to the top fundraising schools, including Each year our schools participate in the United Way of Aiken workshop, which included a question and answer time Busbee Elementary School at $2,372.00, for students to interact with each presenter and learn County campaign to raise money to assist our community in a Leavelle McCampbell Middle School variety of ways. Even during a pandemic, the Superheroes of 1. Pictured from left are Hammond Hill Elementary School United more about our community partners. Aiken County Public Schools showed up and broke the barrier Way School Campaign Coordinator Vicki Newman, Principal Eric at $1,745.00, Chukker Creek of our campaign goal of $35,000.00! Jeffcoat, Assistant Principal Elizabeth Rabb, and Stephanie Behrendt, Elementary School at $1,649.00, These funds allow the United Way of Aiken County to support Communications Coordinator. and Oakwood-Windsor 30 partner agencies and 45 critical need programs that impact 2. Pictured from left are Mike Rosier, Director of Communications, Elementary School at $1,003.00. children, seniors, disabled, and underemployed, with a focus Kennedy Middle School Principal Dr. Ryan Ashley, and United Way on education, health, fi nancial stability and crisis assistance. School Campaign Coordinator Bonnie Gibbons. Thanks to our employees’ generosity, ACPSD raised a total of $38,763.00 during the 2020 Campaign – the largest amount 3. Pictured from left are Mike Rosier, Director of Communications, raised to date! Congratulations to our top fundraising schools, Midland Valley High School Principal Sheldon Higgenbottom, Kennedy Middle with $2,706.00, Midland Valley High with and United Way School Campaign Co-Coordinator Pam Lamb. $2,045.00, and Hammond Hill Elementary with $1,500.00! Not pictured is the school Campaign Co-Coordinator Angela Gibson. 10 11 Aiken High Students Inducted Into Cyber Stars Prestigious AICE Diploma Program Girls Go CyberStart is a girls-only community geared to inspire and uncover future female talent through a new Fifty-three Aiken High School students were inducted into the national program - CyberStart America. This immersive Cambridge Advanced International Certifi cate of Education (AICE) learning resource is an onramp to a career in one of Diploma program during a ceremony held at the school. the world’s fastest growing industries: cyber security. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration Aiken High School is the fi rst in the state to be designated as a Members compete against all CyberStart America Cambridge International School, allowing high school students players for career-enabling college scholarships while Essay and Poster Contest Winners Announced to receive college credit for advanced global coursework with an also having an exclusive space to work together and win Each year students throughout Aiken County are invited to participate in the Dr. Martin Luther King, opportunity to earn an AICE diploma upon passing the rigorous community-specifi c rewards. Jr. Community Celebration Essay and Poster contest, hosted by Aiken Technical College and the Cambridge exam. Students are required to take seven college-level This year, South Aiken High School had its fi rst Girls Go University of South Carolina Aiken. This event honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, courses from a variety of disciplines prior to graduating high school CyberStart team enter the Cyberstart America girls-only Jr. and gives students an opportunity to participate in a poster contest at the elementary level by to earn the diploma. challenge in March. The team is comprised of Seniors creating a visual poster representing what Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day means to them or an essay “What does it mean Cambridge Lead Teacher Lauren Cantey, and AICE teachers Philip Gabrielle Riggins and Rebecca Wright, Junior Hazel contest at the middle and high school levels that answers the question, “What does it mean when Dr. when Dr. King said, Barkhau, Emily Geyer, Carolyn McCurdy, and Francesca Pataro Moore, Sophomores Grace Bowers, Eowyn Garman, King said, ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere’?” handed out certifi cates, lanyards signifying candidacy for the AICE Abigail Kerr, and Savanna Welch, and Freshmen Alyxis ‘Injustice anywhere Congratulations to fi rst place winners Donovan Juarez, a 5th grade student at Mossy Creek Elementary diploma, medallion ribbons as well as graduation cords to each Cheeks, Sarah Rice, Yuridia Rivera, and Amaya Tetreault. School (3rd-5th grade poster category); Margaret Cli ord, a 7th grade student at Schofi eld Middle is a threat to justice candidate during the ceremony. Congratulations to Seniors Gabrielle Riggins and School (middle school essay category); and Kimberly Morris, a Junior at Aiken High School (high everywhere’?” Congratulations to the following students who are AICE Diploma Rebecca Wright who qualifi ed and competed in the school essay category)! candidates: Chloe Biddle, Natalie Bland, Benjamin Bowers, Anne National Cyber Scholarship Competition in April. Their Masters Calfee, Rylee Charnock, Lawson Cline, Connor Couture, hard work earned South Aiken High School the honor of Anajae Curry, Emily Cutler, Eavan Douglas, Jaiden Duncan, Jason being recognized as a Cyber Opportunity School! Embrose, Aiden Fox, Nicole Gonzalez-Echeverri, Gracie Goss, Joshua Grant, Andrew Guerry, Parker Hall, Payton Hall, Wren Hamrick, Luke Perfect Attendance Hanna, Franklyn Howard, Graham Hucks, Laura Hu , Elizabeth Hurd, Brendan Judd, Lillian Judd, Michele Kihnley, Brianna Mahoney, Midland Valley High School senior has Trent Petersen Lindsey Malyszek, Emma Grace Maroni, Liam McCarthy, Reece earned the distinct honor of being the sole student MCarthy, La’Bron McClue, Mattison Mclain, Cassie Nichols, Lillian Orr, from Aiken County Public Schools’ Class of 2021 to Amelia Overstreet, Sophie Redd, Mallory Rich, Ellis Runnels, Tucker achieve Perfect Attendance, not missing a single day of Samaha, Zion Sampson, Aubrey Schweder, Abigail Smith, Jessica school from 1st through 12th grade! This is an extremely Smith, Madelyn Smith, Aiden Snead, Luke Stringfi eld, James Strom hard-to-reach achievement that takes dedication and Thurmond, Jane Timmerman, Eliot Toury, and Amber Williams. determination. Trent is the son of Steven and Monica Petersen, holds a GPA of 4.9, and plans to attend the Cambridge students Parker Hall, Cassie Nichols, and Zion Sampson University of South Carolina Columbia and major in are the fi rst three students in the state to qualify for the AICE diploma. NEMS CyberPatriot Champs Computer Science. They will receive those diplomas in the fall upon successfully passing Congratulations to New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet the Cambridge exam. School CyberPatriot team for earning fi rst place in the state competition! The team is led by advisor Julie Daignault, and includes Connor Lyman (from left), Bailey South Aiken Cadets Named Lancaster, Justin Brown and Aeden Dellinger. Trent Petersen and his mother Monica Petersen who is a teacher Region Cadets of the Year at Gloverville Elementary School, hold certificates as he is The National Youth Cyber Education Program was created to inspire students toward careers in cyber South Aiken High School’s Naval Junior Reserve congratulated by the Attendance Department including Jacqueline security or other science, technology, engineering, and O cers Training Corps (NJROTC) program earned the Simpkins (back row from left), Julie Waugh, Lead Attendance mathematics (STEM) disciplines critical to the nation’s prestigious Distinguished Unit Award this year, placing Supervisor Vicki Miller-McCarthy, and Jeff Bedenbaugh. future, and hosts the CyberPatriot competition to them within the top 10-percent of all JROTC units from engage students in real cyber security threats, showing across the country, and continues to earn recognition South Aiken NJROTC Cadet Savanna Welch (from left), real-world applications of STEM lessons. in the CSRA. Senior Rebecca Wright and Sophomore Savanna Welch received the honor of being named the Col. Claude Davis (Ret.), and Cadet Rebecca Wright celebrate North Augusta Senior Named Congratulations also goes to South Aiken High School 2021 CSRA JROTC Senior Cadet of the Year and 2021 both students being named Cadets of the Year. NJROTC for earning third place in the all-services division! CSRA JROTC Junior Cadet of the Year, respectively, by Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Augusta University Professor of Military Science Lt. Col. Je rey Keenan. 2021 Semifi nalist The Cadets were recognized with a ceremony led Congratulations to North Augusta High School Senior Savannah by Lt. Col. Je rey Keenan and received a plaque Padgett, who was selected as a Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation from the South Carolina National Guard as well as a 2021 Semifi nalist! commemorative plaque naming them Cadet of the Savannah was one of 1,609 students who Year from the ROTC Department of Augusta University were selected from more than 99,000 presented by Senior Military Science Instructor Master applicants from across the country Sergeant of the U.S. Army, Kevin File. to continue through the selection South Aiken’s NJROTC unit is led by Senior Naval process. If selected to advance as a Science Instructor Col. Claude Davis (Ret.) and Naval Regional Finalist, Savannah will have an Science Instructor Richard Barnes (Ret). opportunity of becoming a Coca-Cola Scholar and receiving a $20,000 college Congratulations to Connor Lyman (from left), Bailey Lancaster, scholarship. Best of luck, Savannah! Justin Brown and Aeden Dellinger for earning first place at State in the CyberPatriot competition! 12 13

Band Members Recognized in SCBDA Honor Bands Band students across the District auditioned to earn a spot Clinic Band in the South Carolina Band Directors Association (SCBDA) Aiken High School: Maya Cianni, clarinet, Leana Banks, clarinet, Rose Snipes, clarinet, Honor Bands, six Region Bands and All-State. This year due Anya Taylor, horn, Sydney Boatwright, trombone, Christopher Soto, trombone, Matthew Halling, euphonium, Jayden Fuller, tuba, Benjamin Waits, trumpet (A), to Covid-19 restrictions students auditioned by submitting a Hunter Anderson, trombone (A). single video to be judged virtually. The top-scoring students IN MEMORY Midland Valley High School: Daisy Gonzalez, flute, Liliana Estrada, clarinet, Teresa in each Region were then sent to be judged for the State Bautista, clarinet, Emma Shelton, clarinet, Antonio Gomez, trombone, Silvia Martinex, Honor Band. euphonium, Andrea Briseno, clarinet (A), Zachary Reid, percussion (A). The audition consisted of timed, memorized major scales, a North Augusta High School: Will Seigler, oboe, Monica Burns, clarinet, Grayson Fleury, trumpet, Patryk Turner, trumpet, Maya Thomas, trumpet, Hayden Owen, horn, Ariah Aiken County Public Schools has been deeply saddened memorized chromatic scale, a prepared piece of music called Ekre, horn, Andrew Altringer, tuba, Kendal Risher, horn (A), Derek Bell, trombone (A), a solo that is prescribed by the SCBDA, and two sight-reading Jordyn Adams, clarinet (A), Ellissia Wilson, clarinet (A), Lydia Williams, flute (A). by the losses of Riggs Lindsay, a Belvedere Elementary examples in which the student had 30 seconds to look over Ridge Spring-Monetta High School: Bennie Padgett, trombone. School student, Joseph Copeland, an Aiken High School the technical exercise and then play at-sight an exercise they Silver Bluff High School: Ireland Mack, flute, Veronica Bennett, oboe, Reagan Newsome, have never seen before. trumpet, Caleb Hunt, tuba, Ethan Hicks, alto saxophone (A), Queon Harmon, tenor student, , a Silver Blu High student, saxophone (A), Antonio Garcia-Parada, baritone saxophone (A), Paul Sharpton, tuba (A). Kameron Davis Solos challenged students’ technical abilities in their range, South Aiken High School: Aubrey DeLoach, clarinet, Margaret Davisson, trumpet. and Janice Dawkins, a Special Education Aide at speed, style, and rhythmic demands. The following students Senior Band have taken on the process of learning their scales and solo and Mossy Creek Elementary School, who all passed away practiced sight-reading, recorded their progress, and taken Aiken High School: Danielle DeTroye, flute, Kyle Ramsey, bassoon, Skylar Thomas, trumpet, Brenda Corona, trombone, Carl Mims, tuba, Ian Reece, unexpectedly this year. the risk of being judged on their current musical capabilities. percussion, Willy Rivera, percussion, Patrick Watkins, trombone (A). We are so proud of these students for their dedication to their Midland Valley High School: Avery Gray, flute, Addison Wren, clarinet, art and putting in the additional e ort to even audition and Adrian Benitez, clarinet, Katherine Sojo, horn, James Hutto, euphonium, are thrilled that they have been recognized as some of the top Joselyn Mixon, flute (A), Joshua Matlock, horn (A), Fernando Gomez, horn (A). musicians in our 11-county region and some as top musicians in North Augusta High School: DaJanae’ Sanders, bassoon, Antonio Nazario, the state! Congratulations to the following students, including contrabass clarinet, Noah Lindler, trumpet, Carolyn Yonn, horn, Ian Garland, euphonium, Cooper Redd, tuba, Marshall Robinson, percussion, Chloe Powell, flute (A), alternates who have an (A) after their name: James Seymour, alto saxophone (A), Colin Donaldson, trumpet (A), Darien Ingram, trumpet (A), Tanner Harmon, percussion (A). REGION BAND Ridge Spring-Monetta High School: Kyla Padgett, clarinet. Riggs Lindsay Junior Band Silver Bluff High School: Emily Byrd, clarinet, Ella Mack, flute (A). The faculty and sta of Belvedere Elementary School celebrated the life of student Kennedy Middle School: Brandon Enlund, clarinet, Justin Hsu, alto saxophone, South Aiken High School: Emaline Davisson, clarinet, Jacob Hsu, clarinet, Riggs Lindsay along with his family by hosting a balloon release. Riggs was a fi ve- Aaron Arnold, horn, Gabriel Duncan, horn, Cody Goldschmidt, trombone, Caden Timothy Reid, tuba, Brandon Glenn, trumpet (A). Eichelberger, trombone, Dylan Enlund, euphonium, Thomas Watkins, trumpet (A). year old full of life and energy who always had a big smile and a contagious giggle to L.B.C. Middle School: Karter Wood, clarinet, Jasmine Pham, clarinet, Josalynn Crawford, ALL-STATE BAND o er. The balloons released were a combination of blue stars and red hearts as the trumpet, Anna Parker, trumpet, Fernando Rosales, trumpet (A), Carson Flippin, trumpet (A), Rebecca Franklin, euphonium (A), Frederick Franklin (A). Junior Band blue represented Belvedere’s school color and autism awareness, and the red for the New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet School: Niobi Smith, oboe, Saylor Smith, oboe, Schofield Middle School: Joanna Brown, flute (A). love of Riggs. Olivia Stone, clarinet, Jalayah Lloyd, clarinet, Julia Bessette, horn. Clinic Band North Augusta Middle School: Elliott Wells, trumpet, Embry Graham, trumpet, South Aiken High School: Eowyn Garman, clarinet. Amber Norris, percussion, Benjamin Almarez, flute (A). Senior Band Joseph Copeland Scholfield Middle School: Joanna Brown, flute, Miriam Cianni, flute (A), Ryan Crapse, trombone (A), Daniel Goldman, percussion (A). Aiken High School: Mason Collins, clarinet, Ellakyn Brinkley, percussion, Friends of the Aiken High School Senior said he had a smile that could light up a Ian Reece, percussion, Carl Mims, tuba (A). Ridge Spring-Monetta High School: Maryann Sterling, clarinet, room and had a big heart. In his honor, Joseph’s family walked across the stage and Aubrianna Wise, alto saxophone (A). South Aiken High School: Jacob Hsu, clarinet. accepted his high school diploma during the school’s graduation ceremony.

Kameron Davis acGATEWAY Summer Arts Program Returns The Silver Blu High School family honored the memory of Senior Kameron Davis by After a year hiatus due to Covid-19, Aiken County Public Schools is thrilled that acGATEWAY will return this presenting his mother with a poster, cards, and a yearbook signed by faculty, sta , summer after the 2020-21 school year! Aiken County’s Gifted And Talented Education With Artistic Youth, better known as acGATEWAY, allows highly motivated third through twelfth grade students to participate in and students during the graduation ceremony, where she accepted a diploma on an intensive summer arts program o ering theater, dance, visual arts, creative writing, and music disciplines. Kameron’s behalf. Kameron planned to study welding at Aiken Technical College after Although the program is held in the summer, the process for selection begins in the winter preceding, graduation. He was a bright light and will forever be missed by the Silver Blu family. starting with students fi lling out an application and auditioning for the program. Once accepted, participants spend nearly a month of their summer working with like-minded arts students and instructors to produce a body of work in their chosen discipline. To culminate the year, students present their work Janice Dawkins in a gallery or showcase setting for the community at the end of the summer. The beloved Special Education Aide at Mossy Creek Elementary will forever be “Our program was established in 1985 and is a hallmark of our District’s Fine Arts o erings,” said remembered as an amazing colleague and friend. She was employed with Aiken acGATEWAY Director Mabry MacGregor. Last year was the fi rst ever that we did not hold the program, County Public Schools for 13 years, beginning as a substitute teacher, and then serving so we are over-the-moon excited to be returning this summer!” as a Special Education Aide. In Mrs. Dawkins’ honor, the school has completed an Through acGATEWAY students form close relationships with peers and teachers, learn their craft, and outdoor classroom space named “Dawkins’ Den” with benches that easily convert gain valuable knowledge about professionalism in their arts area. Due to Covid-19 there will be changes to procedures this year, Ms. MacGregor said, but she plans to still provide the most meaningful visual and into tables where students will be able to learn for years to come. performing arts experience possible for students. 14 15 Aiken Standard’s Best of Prep Sports Top student-athletes were honored by the Aiken Standard’s Best of Prep Sports awards banquet in May. The Silver Blu Girls’ Basketball team won Team of the Year as the Lady Bulldogs made it to the Class AA state championship game. The team’s Coach, Chasen Redd, took home Coach of the Year honors as well. Middle School Basketball County Championships Gracie Starnes won Overall Female Athlete of the Year, while AJ Swedenburg was named Overall Male Athlete of the Year. Both are students at Wagener-Salley High School. Congratulations to both the Paul Knox Middle School Boys’ and Girls’ Patriots for earning the title of Middle School Basketball County Champs! With both games played at North Augusta High School, the Boys’ team, led by Coach Chon Mathews, held o the Leavelle McCampbell Middle School Rocks in a 53-35 fi nal score, and the Girls’ team, led by Coach Cheryl Morris, beat the Kennedy Middle School Lady Eagles with a 22-17 victory. Congratulations to the Paul Knox Patriots on a great 2020-21 season! VOLLEYBALL PLAYER GIRLS’ CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS’ SOCCER Photos courtesy of Artie Walker, Jr. OF THE YEAR RUNNER OF THE YEAR PLAYERS OF THE YEAR Aiken High’s Natalie Bland Aiken High’s Aiken High’s Lindsey Malyszek Victoria Colon-LaBorde South Aiken High’s Hailey Roth BOYS’ CROSS COUNTRY BOYS’ SOCCER RUNNER OF THE YEAR PLAYER OF THE YEAR GIRLS’ SWIMMER OF THE YEAR South Aiken High’s Timmy Reid North Augusta High’s Fabian Avila South Aiken High’s Kaitlyn Golyski GIRLS’ TRACK AND FIELD BOYS’ SWIMMER OF THE YEAR ATHLETE OF THE YEAR South Aiken High’s Lincoln Green Aiken High’s Arianna Williams FOOTBALL OFFENSIVE BOYS’ TRACK AND FIELD PLAYER OF THE YEAR ATHLETE OF THE YEAR Silver Blu High’s Traevon Dunbar Aiken High’s Antavious Lawton GIRLS’ TENNIS PLAYER FOOTBALL DEFENSIVE OF THE YEAR PLAYER OF THE YEAR South Aiken High’s Natalie Cannon South Aiken High’s Demaurion Ginn BOYS’ TENNIS PLAYER GIRLS’ BASKETBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR OF THE YEAR South Aiken High’s North Augusta High’s Kiana Lee Sebastian Rogerson SOFTBALL PLAYER BOYS’ BASKETBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR OF THE YEAR North Augusta High’s Aiken High’s RJ Felton Katelyn Cochran Stars at State GIRLS’ GOLFER OF THE YEAR Track and Field athletes showed out Wagener-Salley High Senior Key’Asia injuries, the team broke the school South Aiken High’s Lindsey Greene during the State competition, yielding Dunbar, won the State Championship record with a 4:06.99! Congratulations BOYS’ GOLFER OF THE YEAR WRESTLER OF THE YEAR several winners this Spring. Aiken High in shot-put at the Class A event for the to Senior Kalyn Glover, Sophomore North Augusta High’s South Aiken High’s Camden Taylor Freshman Eliza King earned fi rst place second time, naming her the fi rst state Alexis Bryant, Fantasia Smith of Matthew Baxley in the javelin throw at the Class AAAA champ winner from Wagener-Salley Jackson STEM Magnet Middle School, State Championship, with a throw of 136 High School in Track and Field in more Aaliyah Washington of New Ellenton feet, more than 11 feet farther than the than 25 years. Middle STEAM Magnet School, and competition. King is also the AAAA Girl alternate of Jackson The undefeated Silver Blu Lady Sanaii Westbrook State record holder in Javelin. STEM Magnet Middle School. Bulldogs 4x400m Relay Team was not Cailyn Johnson, a Senior at South Aiken to be denied the State Championship, Photos courtesy of Kyle Dawson / High, held on to her Lower State title in making history as the school’s fi rst The Aiken Standard the Triple Jump with a jump measuring 4x400m Relay Team to earn the title. 36 feet, 8 inches. Even facing many challenges with

Eliza King Cailyn Johnson Key’Asia Dunbar Photo courtesy of Kyle Dawson and The Aiken Standard AIKEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS 1000 Brookhaven Drive Aiken, South Carolina 29803 Stars of Public Education honorees! honorees! Education of Public Stars See pages 4-5 for a full list of 2021-22 4-5 for pages See STARS OF PUBLIC EDUCATION STARS

Aiken High, South Aiken High Students Recognized For Leadership and Fundraising for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Aiken High Junior J. Strom Thurmond and South Aiken High Sophomore Benjamin Porcha–Konjikusic formed “Team Cancer to the Curb” for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Nation-wide LLS Students of the Year campaign. This seven-week philanthropic leadership development program teaches students to create a business plan, advertise their fundraising e orts, solicit commitments for donations from local businesses, and to secure donations that support the LLS’ lifesaving mission of fi nding a cure for blood cancers and improving the quality of life for patients and their families. With only 27 students in the CSRA selected to participate, more than $354,000.00 was raised, and Team Cancer to the Curb served as a top fundraising team, bringing in $32,065.00 to help support LLS’ cause! Congratulations to Benjamin and J. Strom on a tremendous job! Aiken High Junior J. Strom Thurmond (left) and South Aiken High Sophomore Benjamin Porcha–Konjikusic were honored by Superintend King Laurence during a recent Board of Education Meeting for their tremendous fundraising efforts for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.