News Summary
The Aiken County Public School District has welcomed over 20,000 students back to school, focusing on crucial renovations and hiring new teachers to tackle declining achievement levels in core subjects. Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy is actively engaging with schools as the district prioritizes both academic success and student safety with various upgrades. The district is also enhancing educational resources through partnerships with multiple software companies, aiming to transform learning experiences amidst rising concerns about screen time in classrooms.
Aiken, SC – The Aiken County Public School District formally commenced the 2025-26 academic year on July 21, welcoming over 20,000 students back to the classroom amidst notably high temperatures. Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy, who is beginning his second year in the role, took the initiative to visit multiple schools, where he engaged directly with both teachers and students to kick off the new school year.
This year, the district is focusing on essential renovations funded by a penny sales tax, which are set to enhance facilities at several schools. Notable projects are underway at South Aiken High, Midland Valley High, Silver Bluff High, and North Augusta Middle School. These renovations aim to provide a better learning environment for students.
The district has identified a sharp decline in achievement levels in English and Math, particularly at the middle school level. To tackle these issues, additional teachers have been hired to specifically support curriculum needs in these subjects. In addition to new hires, several schools will welcome new leadership. Aiken Intermediate, Paul Knox Middle, Leavelle McCampbell Middle, Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary, and New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet School will have new principals for the academic year, including Karen Fiery at New Ellenton STEAM Middle Magnet School.
In terms of educational resources, the Aiken County Public School District has approved partnerships with 26 educational software companies aimed at supplementing core subjects for K-12 students. Among the approved vendors are Studies Weekly, Try Once, Edmentum, EPS Learning, Derivita, and Continental Press, with contracts set for annual renewal over the next five years. The selection process involved a comprehensive Request for Proposals (RFP) and a committee review of 32 submissions, ultimately choosing the most relevant companies to enhance learning.
Dr. Amy Edwards, the Chief Instructional Officer, emphasized the importance of the RFP process in facilitating timely vendor use and effective resource acquisition. Over the summer, concerns regarding screen time in classrooms were raised by numerous parents. The district is taking these concerns seriously, balancing the necessity of technology integration with maintaining a significant amount of in-person instruction.
In addition to academic enhancements, the Aiken County Public School District is prioritizing student safety through various upgrades. Noteworthy improvements include the rebuilding of North Augusta Middle School as well as security enhancements such as increased camera installations and vestibule security systems in many local schools. There are also plans to expand the number of school resource officers present at district institutions. Assistant Superintendent Julie Revelle stated that investments in student safety are a top priority, aiming to alleviate parents’ concerns about their children’s well-being.
The excitement and nervousness surrounding the new school year are palpable among parents and students, particularly in light of the changes and improvements being implemented across the district. The focus for this academic year is clear: to improve educational outcomes while ensuring a safe and supportive environment for students.
The Aiken County Public School District is committed to addressing the evolving needs of its students, prioritizing effective teaching practices, enriched learning experiences through technology, and enhanced safety measures to foster a conducive learning environment.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Aiken County Heads Back to School
- Wikipedia: Aiken County
- Post and Courier: Superintendent Visits Schools on First Day
- Google Search: Aiken County School District
- WRDW: Aiken County Kids Go Back to School
- Google Scholar: Aiken County Public School
- SC Daily Gazette: More SC Schools Offering Free Meals
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education in the United States
- WRDW: Aiken County Adding More Security Measures
- Google News: Aiken County School Updates
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
