We are thrilled to announce our 🌟 2025 District Teacher of the Year and 🌟 2025 District Support Employee of the Year! Congratulations to Elizabeth Gunnels and April Heard!
Elizabeth Gunnels is a dedicated fifth grade teacher at Liberty Elementary School with 11 years of experience in education. With a Master of Education from Anderson University, she’s known for building strong, lasting relationships with students and families—often showing up to cheer on her students beyond the classroom. Her instructional expertise, mentoring of new teachers, and leadership in school-wide events make her a standout at Liberty Elementary. Described by colleagues and parents as compassionate and committed, Elizabeth exemplifies an outstanding representative for the field of education.
April Heard has been a cornerstone of SDPC Transportation Services for 15 years, progressing from bus driver to Activity Bus Supervisor, and now excelling as the administrative assistant. Known for her dependability and compassionate approach, April goes above and beyond daily to support drivers, bus companions, and school staff with a positive attitude and unwavering professionalism. She manages critical tasks like payroll for over 100 employees with precision while consistently stepping in to help wherever needed—even personally assisting drivers in urgent situations. April’s dedication, empathy, and thoroughness make her an indispensable member of the transportation team.
We are so proud for both of these valued employees to represent the School District of Pickens County! These outstanding individuals represent the very best of SDPC—dedicated, passionate, and committed to making a lasting difference for our students, staff, and community.
To learn more about these deserving individuals, read here: https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/article/2365679
#PeopleFocusedSupportiveCulture
#EngagingToday
#EmpoweringTomorrow
Elizabeth Gunnels is a dedicated fifth grade teacher at Liberty Elementary School with 11 years of experience in education. With a Master of Education from Anderson University, she’s known for building strong, lasting relationships with students and families—often showing up to cheer on her students beyond the classroom. Her instructional expertise, mentoring of new teachers, and leadership in school-wide events make her a standout at Liberty Elementary. Described by colleagues and parents as compassionate and committed, Elizabeth exemplifies an outstanding representative for the field of education.
April Heard has been a cornerstone of SDPC Transportation Services for 15 years, progressing from bus driver to Activity Bus Supervisor, and now excelling as the administrative assistant. Known for her dependability and compassionate approach, April goes above and beyond daily to support drivers, bus companions, and school staff with a positive attitude and unwavering professionalism. She manages critical tasks like payroll for over 100 employees with precision while consistently stepping in to help wherever needed—even personally assisting drivers in urgent situations. April’s dedication, empathy, and thoroughness make her an indispensable member of the transportation team.
We are so proud for both of these valued employees to represent the School District of Pickens County! These outstanding individuals represent the very best of SDPC—dedicated, passionate, and committed to making a lasting difference for our students, staff, and community.
To learn more about these deserving individuals, read here: https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/article/2365679
#PeopleFocusedSupportiveCulture
#EngagingToday
#EmpoweringTomorrow
“We love our House System at Pickens Middle. Sixth grade students are excited to find out what House they are in, and our seventh and eighth grade students are excited to welcome them in. On day one, our House System creates immediate connection and a sense of belonging for our students.” -Dr. James King, Principal of Pickens Middle School
As the School District of Pickens County celebrates 75 years of learning, growth, and community, it’s the people who have made the journey meaningful. From classrooms and concerts to bus routes and boardrooms, every chapter of SDPC’s story has been shaped by those who gave their time, their talent, and their heart. These short reflections - captured over the year and shared by the voices of SDPC - capture the spirit, pride, and personal moments that define who we are. Together, they form a living tribute to the legacy we share and the bright future still ahead.
This story is one of many that reflects SDPC’s commitment to a People-Focused Supportive Culture. See how Pickens Middle School invests in the well-being of both staff and students here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdouBl5qt78
#75YearsOfImpact
#EngagingToday
#EmpoweringTomorrow
As the School District of Pickens County celebrates 75 years of learning, growth, and community, it’s the people who have made the journey meaningful. From classrooms and concerts to bus routes and boardrooms, every chapter of SDPC’s story has been shaped by those who gave their time, their talent, and their heart. These short reflections - captured over the year and shared by the voices of SDPC - capture the spirit, pride, and personal moments that define who we are. Together, they form a living tribute to the legacy we share and the bright future still ahead.
This story is one of many that reflects SDPC’s commitment to a People-Focused Supportive Culture. See how Pickens Middle School invests in the well-being of both staff and students here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdouBl5qt78
#75YearsOfImpact
#EngagingToday
#EmpoweringTomorrow
“You can feel it when you walk in the door of our school… We know our students. We know their stories. We know their families. And we’re really able to build those relationships and make connections with them before we ever start the teaching process… From day one, that’s our number one priority.” -Dr. Lisa Cassidy, Principal of Liberty Middle School
As the School District of Pickens County celebrates 75 years of learning, growth, and community, it’s the people who have made the journey meaningful. From classrooms and concerts to bus routes and boardrooms, every chapter of SDPC’s story has been shaped by those who gave their time, their talent, and their heart. These short reflections - captured over the year and shared by the voices of SDPC - capture the spirit, pride, and personal moments that define who we are. Together, they form a living tribute to the legacy we share and the bright future still ahead.
This story is one of many that reflect SDPC’s commitment to a People-Focused Supportive Culture. Find out more about the impact Liberty Middle School is making in our community here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulAkKBlvDgU
As the School District of Pickens County celebrates 75 years of learning, growth, and community, it’s the people who have made the journey meaningful. From classrooms and concerts to bus routes and boardrooms, every chapter of SDPC’s story has been shaped by those who gave their time, their talent, and their heart. These short reflections - captured over the year and shared by the voices of SDPC - capture the spirit, pride, and personal moments that define who we are. Together, they form a living tribute to the legacy we share and the bright future still ahead.
This story is one of many that reflect SDPC’s commitment to a People-Focused Supportive Culture. Find out more about the impact Liberty Middle School is making in our community here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulAkKBlvDgU
Behind every clean hallway, shining floor, and well-kept campus is a team of hardworking heroes. Our custodian teams and grounds crews have worked all summer to prepare our schools for a strong start - and it shows! Join us in thanking them for the pride and care they pour into every corner of our buildings as we prepare to welcome students back on Friday! #ProductiveServiceOrientedOperations #EngagingToday #EmpoweringTomorrow
🥞 FREE Meals for All Students This Year! 🍎
We’ve got great news for SDPC families!
Thanks to the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), all students will receive FREE breakfast and lunch every day during the 2025–2026 school year—no forms, no fees, no hassle! 🙌
✅ No need to submit a meal application
✅ Every student is automatically eligible
✅ Healthy meals = focused minds + strong bodies
This program ensures that every child has access to nutritious meals to fuel learning and success. It’s one more way we’re supporting our students—together!
Find out more here: https://5il.co/3me9w
Questions? Visit www.sdpcnutrition.com or contact Jenaffer Stevenson, Director of Student Nutrition Services:
📧 jenafferstevenson@pickens.k12.sc.us | 📞 864-397-1166
#SDPCNutrition #EngagingToday #EmpoweringTomorrow
We’ve got great news for SDPC families!
Thanks to the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), all students will receive FREE breakfast and lunch every day during the 2025–2026 school year—no forms, no fees, no hassle! 🙌
✅ No need to submit a meal application
✅ Every student is automatically eligible
✅ Healthy meals = focused minds + strong bodies
This program ensures that every child has access to nutritious meals to fuel learning and success. It’s one more way we’re supporting our students—together!
Find out more here: https://5il.co/3me9w
Questions? Visit www.sdpcnutrition.com or contact Jenaffer Stevenson, Director of Student Nutrition Services:
📧 jenafferstevenson@pickens.k12.sc.us | 📞 864-397-1166
#SDPCNutrition #EngagingToday #EmpoweringTomorrow
📅 Mark your calendars — the first day of school is August 1, 2025!
📅 View the full 2025–2026 SDPC calendar and learn more about our Modified Year-Round Approach here:
🔗 https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/spdc-calendars
We can't wait to welcome our students back for an exciting new year!
📅 View the full 2025–2026 SDPC calendar and learn more about our Modified Year-Round Approach here:
🔗 https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/spdc-calendars
We can't wait to welcome our students back for an exciting new year!
🚌 SDPC Families – Does your child need bus transportation this school year?
If your student will be riding the bus to or from school, please take a moment to complete the 📝 SDPC Transportation Form to ensure they are scheduled for 🚌 pickup and drop-off before August 1.
🔗 Find the form linked here: https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/transportation
If your student will be riding the bus to or from school, please take a moment to complete the 📝 SDPC Transportation Form to ensure they are scheduled for 🚌 pickup and drop-off before August 1.
🔗 Find the form linked here: https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/transportation
Parent Event: Helping Your Family Bridge the Tech Gap
SDPC families — you're invited to a special event with Joshua Adams from Parent ProTech, focused on how technology is shaping the lives of Gen Z and Gen Alpha.
Learn about:
✔️ Screen time trends & the science behind them
✔️ Practical strategies for healthy tech habits
✔️ How to stay connected as a family in today's digital world
April 1 | 5:00–6:30 PM
ALIVE Wesleyan Church - 136 Chastain Rd, Central, SC 29630
✅ FREE and open to all SDPC parents
✅ Click here to register: https://forms.gle/GCcGHW91wGktUZmPA
Let’s work together to help our kids thrive in a tech-saturated world!
📢 Leadership Announcement! 📢
We are excited to announce that Mr. Nate Roper has been named the next principal of Gettys Middle School, effective July 1, 2025! 🎉
Mr. Roper currently serves as the principal of Dacusville Middle School and has an extensive leadership background in SDPC, including previous roles as an assistant principal and associate principal at Gettys Middle and also as an assistant principal at Easley High.
Please join us in congratulating Mr. Roper as he prepares to return to the GMS family!
Please see the link below for more information:
https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/article/2034485
Today, we celebrate the incredible men and women who ensure our students travel safely to and from school each day. It's SC Bus Driver Appreciation Day, and we want to say THANK YOU to our SDPC bus drivers and assistants!
To truly capture the impact of our drivers, we spent time riding along on routes and speaking with two of our dedicated drivers—experiencing firsthand the joy, care, and commitment they bring to their work.
🎥 Watch our special tribute video here: https://youtu.be/omM_SDLXcM0
📚 We Need Your Input for MATH Materials!
The School District of Pickens County invites the public to review proposed K-12 Math instructional materials and textbooks before final approval.
📍 Review materials in person: Central Services, Easley (Mon–Fri, 8:30 AM–4:00 PM)
💻 Review materials online & submit feedback: [https://bit.ly/3WVZ56W]
🗓 Deadline to submit feedback: March 4, 2025
To learn more and provide feedback, visit: https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/article/2021110
🎉 4K Applications & 5K Registration Now Open! 🎉
The time has come! 4K applications and 5K enrollment for the 2025-26 school year are officially open.
📌 Learn more & register today: www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/pre-k-information-page
✨ New for 2025-26! We're excited to enhance our preschool programs across the district. Read about these important updates here: https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/article/1937097
📢Coming soon: 2025 Pre-K & 5K Registration! 📢
Do you have a rising 4K or 5K student ready to start their learning journey? Mark your calendars, registration opens TOMORROW, January 17, 2025!
✅4K Applications - Learn about eligibility and how to apply
✅5K Enrollment - get ready for kindergarten at SDPC
📌Learn more & Register here: www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/pre-k-information-page
NOTE: If you have completed any form prior to January 17., 2025, it will need to be resubmitted once registration opens.
🎉New for 2025-26! Our Preschool programs are evolving to better serve young learners. Read about these exciting updates: https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/article/1937097
Tag a friend who needs this info! 🎒📚
#engagingtoday #empoweringtomorrow
SDPC will operate on a two-hour delay on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, due to the danger of ice on secondary roads. No buses will travel on icy roads. High school students should check Schoology for adjusted schedules. Details:: https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/article/196018
📱 Revised Personal Electronic Device Policy: Beginning January 2025 📱
Under a new South Carolina policy, schools are required to limit students' access to cell phones and other personal devices during the school day. The School District of Pickens County has adopted a revised Personal Electronic Device Policy to comply with state law (Budget Proviso 1.103).
✔️Devices must be silenced and stored in lockers, backpacks, or other designated areas throughout the instructional time.
✔️Devices include but are not limited to, cell phones, smart watches, tablets, and gaming devices.
We encourage parents to discuss this policy with their children and support its implementation when we return in January. Thank you for partnering with us as we implement this required policy.
Please visit this site for detailed information [www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/sdpc-cell-phone-policy].
Reminder - No School November 25-29, 2024
As we look ahead to next week, this is a reminder that there will be no school
Monday, November 25 - Friday, November 29, 2024.
We hope you have a restful Fall Break! 🍂🍁
This is a planned break on the 2024-2025 calendar.
As always, you can view the entire calendar as well as future draft calendars here -
https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/spdc-calendars
Reminder: There will be no school for students on Monday and Tuesday of next week, as we have an extended holiday.
No School:
- Monday, Oct. 14, 2024
- Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024 (Teacher Professional Development day)
These days are planned breaks on the 2024-2025 calendar. You can view the current calendar and future calendar drafts here: [www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/spdc-calendars]
🚨Reminder: There will be no school for students on Monday & Tuesday of next week, as we have an extended Labor Day Holiday.
No School:
▪️Monday, Sept. 2, 2024
▪️Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024
These days are planned breaks on the 2024-2025 calendar. You can view the current calendar and future calendar drafts here - www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/spdc-calendars
Attention Parents/Guardians of Pickens County students!
Click Here (https://bit.ly/3WWUkul) for info about EmpowerUP; a program to support adults in Pickens County! You can earn certifications in the fields of Commercial Truck Driver Training (CDL), Digital Literacy, Electrical Wiring, Medical Billing & Coding, and Certified Nurse Aide. Classes for the Fall begin soon!
For more information, visit - www.tctc.edu/EmpowerUp
#EmpowerUp update | The School District of Pickens County has partnered with Tri-County Technical College (TCTC) to bring Adult Workforce Development offerings to our residents! 📚🛠️
You are invited to an OPEN HOUSE to learn more!
- EmpowerUp OPEN HOUSE (https://5il.co/2fzn2)
- Wed., March 6 from 9-11 a.m.
- Pickens County Career & Technology Center (990 Chastain Road, Liberty, SC)
Visit tctc.edu/empowerup or click here (https://5il.co/2fzn2) for more info!
