Georgetown County School District -

March is Music in Our Schools Month! The purpose of Music in Our Schools Month is to raise awareness of the importance of music education for all children – and to remind citizens that school is where all children should have access to music. Music in Our Schools Month is an opportunity for music teachers to bring their music programs to the attention of the school and the community, and to display the value that school music brings to students of all ages! Students who have excelled in music during the 2023-2024 school year were recognized during the March 19 GCSD Board of Trustees meeting. Included in the recognition were: • Meris Thompson, Coastal Montessori Charter School, SC Elementary Honor Choir • Brendon MacArthur, Waccamaw High School, All-State Senior Band • Alayna Shelley, Georgetown High School, SC Lower State Piano Festival and selected to perform at the SC Music Education Association Conference Masterclass • Addison Cribb, Carvers Bay Early College and Career High School, SC Lower State Piano Festival and selected to perform at the SC Music Education Association Conference Masterclass • Stella Fettermann, Waccamaw High School, All-State Chorus • Ava Broach, Waccamaw High School, All-State Chorus • Lily Grant, Waccamaw High School, All-State Chorus • Lillie Danysh, Waccamaw High School, ACDA Honor Choir • Caley Wilder, Waccamaw High School, ACDA Honor Choir • Emmie Bess, Waccamaw High School, All-State Chorus and ACDA Honor Choir • Jaya Mosley, Waccamaw High School, All-State Chorus and ACDA Honor Choir • Anna Whitesides, Waccamaw High School, All-State Chorus and ACDA Honor Choir Waccamaw High School’s Concert Choir also shared highlights from their recent trip to Hawaii where they performed as the official ambassador from SC in the 2023 Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade and 75th anniversary of the WWII commemoration. #GCSD #hardworkpaysoff #MusicinOurSchoolsMonth

"Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are." - Mason Cooley #GCSDReads is on a mission to spread the joy of reading far and wide across Georgetown County School District! Recently, we visited Brown's Ferry Elementary for the Creative and Performing Arts, where Superintendent Price, Dr. Giles, and Dr. Greene delighted students by sharing their favorite books. The purpose of #GCSDReads is simple yet profound: to encourage a love for reading among students and to showcase the boundless worlds that books can open up. #GCSD #GCSDReads #hardworkpaysoff

The finalists for 2024-2025 Principal of the Year for Georgetown County School District were announced today. The finalists are: Tawanna Grant, Brown’s Ferry Elementary for the Creative and Performing Arts Craig Stone, Georgetown High Dr. Maurice Cobb, Kensington Elementary Travis Klatka, Waccamaw Intermediate. Congratulations! #GCSD #hardworkpaysoff

The finalists for 2024-2025 Assistant Principal of the Year for Georgetown County School District were announced today. The finalists are: Woodrow Nesbit ~ Maryville Elementary Dr. Anthony Poston ~ Pleasant Hill Elementary STREAM Academy and Sampit Elementary Denetria Middleton ~ Waccamaw Intermediate Congratulations! #GCSD #hardworkpaysoff

Congratulations to the five finalists for 2024-2025 GCSD Support Staff of the Year: Natalie Doudican ~ Coastal Montessori Charter Voncennia Jones ~ Georgetown High Muryel Sumpter ~ Georgetown Middle Nancy Crawford ~ Kensington Elementary Delacy Cooper ~ Sampit Elementary The winner will be named during the SSOY luncheon in May. #GCSD #hardworkpaysoff

Congratulations to our 2024-2025 school-level Support Staff of the Year! • Jimmie (Karen) Cribb ~ Andrews Elementary • Jessica Rogers ~ Andrews High • Errin Gibson ~ Brown’s Ferry Elementary for the Creative and Performing Arts • Tonya Davis ~ Carvers Bay Early College & Career High • Reeve Rice ~ Carvers Bay Middle STEAM Academy • Natalie Doudican ~ Coastal Montessori Charter • Ashley Smith ~ Facilities • Voncennia Jones ~ Georgetown High • Muryel Sumpter ~ Georgetown Middle • Lenora White ~ Howard • Nancy Crawford ~ Kensington Elementary • Annette Ingram ~ Maryville Elementary • Tangelia Mercer ~ McDonald Elementary • Roxanne Franklin ~ Plantersville Elementary Digital Immersion • Ramona Morris ~ Pleasant Hill Elementary STREAM Academy • Teresa Glisson ~ Rosemary Middle • Delacy Cooper ~ Sampit Elementary • Kelly Wilson ~ Waccamaw Elementary • Sandra Smalls ~ Waccamaw High • Elizabeth Parler ~ Waccamaw Intermediate • Pamela McDill ~ Waccamaw Middle Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering support are truly appreciated and make a profound impact on our school communities. The five finalists for GCSD Support Staff of the Year will be announced soon. Stay tuned! #GCSD #hardworkpaysoff #SupportStaffoftheYear #SSOY

Looking for a summer job? Looking to hire for the summer? GCSD has the event for you! GCSD and the Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce are hosting a Student Summer Job Fair on Saturday, April 13 from 9am - 12pm at Georgetown High School. Interested students must be at least 15 years old to apply and will need to show their school ID. Register to attend by visiting https://tinyurl.com/StudentSummerJobFair or scan the QR code in the image. Employers looking to hire for the summer can register to participate by visiting https://tinyurl.com/GCSDSummerJobFair or scan the QR code in the image.

**Reminder** No school for students on Friday, March 15. This is a scheduled Professional Development Day for teachers and staff.

GCSD Celebrates School Social Work Week: Advocating for Students and Families In celebration of School Social Worker Week, Georgetown County School District is proud to recognize the invaluable contributions of our social worker, Dwane Heyward, who advocates for the well-being of our students and their families. This week, we shine a spotlight on her essential role in fostering a supportive and inclusive school environment. A school social worker serves as a vital link between students, families, schools, and the community, providing crucial support and resources to help students thrive academically and personally. They collaborate with teachers, administrators, and community agencies to develop and implement strategies that promote positive behavior, enhance social skills, and address barriers to learning. “As GCSD’s social worker, I am first and foremost an advocate. I champion for students and families working to mitigate the needs of home so that a kid can be a kid,” shared Heyward. “I support and empower families to get to an end game or their goal – providing resources, having conversations, directing them where to go.” "We are incredibly fortunate to have Ms. Heyward as a member of our GCSD family," said Genia Smith, Executive Director for Innovations and Special Programs. "She is dedicated and committed to the well-being of our students. As we celebrate School Social Worker Week, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Heyward and all school social workers for their invaluable contributions to our students' success." #GCSD #hardworkpaysoff #SSWWeek2024 #ImpactInTheMaking

During the March 5 GCSD Board of Trustees meeting, students and coaches who excelled in their fall or winter sport were recognized. Carvers Bay Early College & Career High School – • Natalie Joye, North/South All-Star Game • Kenard Heyward, All-State Basketball • Jasaia Young, All-State Football and North/South All-Star Game • Jerchel Geathers - All- State Basketball and Carolina Classic All-Star Game • Coach Matthew Richard, Touchstone Energy Bowl North/South All-Star Game Andrews High School – • Brandon Cumbee, All-State Football • Da’Viyon McNair, All-State Football • Khalil Dorsey, All-State Football • A J Lee, All-State Football • Kayden Dorsey, All-State Football • Bradley Hernandez, All-State Football • Lavon White, All-State Football and North/South All-Star Game • Coach Jim Rowell, AA Lower State Assistance Coach of the Year • Coach Scott Durham, Region 8 AA Coach of the Year and Touchstone Energy Bowl North/South All-Star Game Waccamaw High School – • Jake DiMaria, All-State Football • Adrian Grate, All-State Football • Ben Cohen, All-State Football • Kameron Jackson, All-State Football • Molly Congdon, All-State Volleyball • Breckin Lottchea, All-State Volleyball and North/South All-Star Game • Kayla Holek, All-State Girls Golf • Anna Brown, All-State Girls Golf and North/South All-Star Match • Wade Leventis, All-State Cross-Country • Dawson Richardson, All-State Cross Country • Patrick Gallagher, All-State Wrestling • Colin Beever, All-State Wrestling and North/South All-Star Wrestling Classic • Coach Don Williams, North/South All-Star Wrestling Classic and 600+ wins thus far in his coaching career Congratulations! #hardworkpaysoff #GCSD

GCSD received an education sponsorship from HTC, Inc. and a portion of the funds has been allocated to support robotics programs at Waccamaw High, Carvers Bay Early College and Career High, Georgetown High, Georgetown Middle, and Carvers Bay Middle. Thank you, HTC Inc.! (Pictures include robotics students from each of the schools that received a portion of the funds.)

“You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need it a book.” – Dr. Seuss Maryville Elementary was the latest stop for #GCSDReads. On Tuesday, March 5, Mr. Price read to students in Mrs. Cook’s kindergarten class, and Dr. Giles read to Mrs. Dozier’s third grade class and Mrs. Cunningham’s fifth grade class. Each shared their favorite books with the students and encouraged them to read – read – read. #GCSD #GCSDReads #hardworkpaysoff

Congratulation to our 2024-2025 school-level Teachers of the Year! Michelle Marshall ~ Andrews Elementary James Rowell ~ Andrews High Cassidy Altman ~ Brown’s Ferry Elementary for the Creative and Performing Arts Julie Paynter ~ Carvers Bay Early College and Career High Edrick Alston ~ Carvers Bay Middle STEAM Academy Katie Wilson Morris ~ Coastal Montessori Charter Dr. Edward S. Thomas ~ Georgetown High Jennifer Roberto ~ Georgetown Middle Brandy Caroway ~ Howard Adult Center Justin Winns ~ Kensington Elementary Janice Dozier ~ Maryville Elementary Chelsea Gruber ~ McDonald Elementary Velmer Langley ~ Plantersville Digital Immersion Krista Poston ~ Pleasant Hill Elementary STREAM Academy Brian Gary ~ Rosemary Middle Kiley Wilson ~ Sampit Elementary Elizabeth Bullard ~ Waccamaw Elementary Lawrie Ann Brone ~ Waccamaw High Michael Loser ~ Waccamaw Intermediate Laura Gabriel ~ Waccamaw Middle The five finalists for GCSD Teacher of the Year will be announced on March 21, 2024. #GCSD #hardworkpaysoff #TeacheroftheYear

The 2024 GCSD Senior Academic Bowl was a true showcase of intellect and determination! In an electrifying atmosphere, teams from Andrews High School, Carvers Bay Early College and Career High School, Georgetown High School, and Waccamaw High School faced off in a thrilling double elimination tournament held on Thursday in the boardroom of the J B Beck Administration & Education Building. Game 1: Andrews High vs Carvers Bay Early College - Final Score: Andrews High 6, Carvers Bay Early College 8 Game 2: Georgetown High vs Waccamaw High - Final Score: Georgetown High 7, Waccamaw High 24 Game 3: Andrews High vs Georgetown High - Final Score: Andrews High 6, Georgetown High 14 Game 4: Carvers Bay Early College vs Waccamaw High - Final Score: Carvers Bay Early College 8, Waccamaw High 16 Game 5: Georgetown High vs Carvers Bay Early College - Final Score: Georgetown High 19, Carvers Bay Early College 2 Game 6: Waccamaw High vs Georgetown High - Final Score: Waccamaw High 18, Georgetown High 9 After an intense academic battle, the results are in: Runner-Up: Hats off to Georgetown High School for their remarkable performance! Champions: Let's give a round of applause to Waccamaw High School for clinching the title with an outstanding display of knowledge and skill! And a special shout-out to the All-Star Team, whose exceptional contributions made this event truly unforgettable: - Walker Wood, GHS (14 points) - Luke Kibler, WHS (10 points) - Jackson Kaylor, WHS (9 points) - Addison Cribb, CBECCH (7 points) - Emma Pope, GHS (5 points) Congratulations to all the participants and coaches for their hard work and dedication! #GCSDSeniorAcademicBowl #GCSD #Hardworkpaysoff #WaccamawHighSchool #GeorgetownHighSchool #AndrewsHighSchool #CarversBayEarlyCollege&CareerHighSchool

Congratulations to all the students who participated in the 2024 GCSD Junior Academic Bowl! What an electrifying event it was at the J B Beck Administration & Education Building on Tuesday, February 27th, with a packed house cheering on five exceptional teams: Carvers Bay Middle STEAM Academy, Coastal Montessori Charter School, Georgetown Middle, Rosemary Middle, and the combined team from Waccamaw Intermediate/Waccamaw Middle. A special shoutout to our Champions, Waccamaw Intermediate/Waccamaw Middle, and the Runner-Up, Georgetown Middle, for their outstanding performance! You all demonstrated true academic excellence. The final showdown in Game 8 had us on the edge of our seats, with Waccamaw clinching victory with a score of 8 against Georgetown's 7. And let's not forget our All-Star team members and their incredible contributions: Emery Moyer, 17 points, Georgetown Middle; Duncan Rutherford, 17 points, Waccamaw Middle; Banks Hardin, 13 points, Waccamaw Middle; Charlie Powell, 9 points, Rosemary Middle; Aubrey Wilson, 8 points, Rosemary Middle; and Damian Parsons, 7 points, Carvers Bay Middle STEAM Academy. Your dedication, hard work, and focus on academics truly shine! A huge thank you to everyone involved in making this event a resounding success. Let's continue to celebrate the power of knowledge and teamwork! #GCSD #hardworkpaysoff #JuniorAcademicBowl **More pictures will be posted on Friday.**

Happy National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day! Today, GCSD is celebrating and expressing our appreciation to our school bus drivers! Behind the wheel, they're more than just drivers; they're mentors, protectors, and trusted companions, ensuring our children arrive safely and with smiles on their faces. Let's take a moment to recognize their dedication, patience, and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our students. To all of GCSD’s bus drivers: thank you for your kindness, your care, and for “going the extra mile!” #GCSD #SchoolBusDriverDay #ThankYou #hardworkpaysoff

Mid-Winter Break No School February 19, 2024 - February 23, 2024 * Monday, February 19: Presidents' Day * Tuesday, February 20: eLearning Day School resumes on Monday, February 26, 2024.

Today, we're celebrating National School Resource Officer Appreciation Day! GCSD is incredibly grateful for the dedication and commitment of our 20 full-time School Resource Officers (SROs), each stationed at one of our schools. They go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and faculty every single day. From fostering positive relationships with students to providing a safe learning environment, our SROs play an integral role in our school community. They not only enforce laws but also serve as mentors, role models, and trusted allies to our students. Join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to our SROs for their unwavering support and dedication to keeping our schools safe and secure. #SROAppreciationDay #SafeSchools #GCSD #hardworkpaysoff

**NOW ENROLLING CLASS of 2038** Online registration for GCSD's pre-kindergarten (4K) program will be open from February 20, 2024 - March 19, 2024. Visit www.gcsd.k12.sc.us to learn more and to access the application portal.

"Reading is dreaming with open eyes." - Anissa Trisdianty This month, #GCSDReads embarked on an exciting literary journey with the fourth-grade classes at Waccamaw Intermediate! Imaginations were sparked as Superintendent Keith Price shared The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors with Mrs. Christian and Mrs. Burton’s classes; Deputy Superintendent Dr. Bethany Giles shared Only One You with Mrs. Gallop and Mrs. Haynes’ classes; and Jamie Thompkins, Coordinator for ADEPT, shared The Carpenter's Gift: A Christmas Tale About the Rockefeller Center Tree with Mrs. Allen and Mrs. Mueller’s classes. Let's continue to inspire each other through the magic of reading and storytelling. #GCSDReads #ReadingIsDreaming #hardworkpaysoff