"We know that during ages birth to five, a child’s brain develops rapidly—so we’re harnessing that potential by creating immersive, active experiences that build background knowledge, laying the foundation for future reading success. Because experience matters…” - Dr. Traci Boyles, SDPC Executive Director of Early Childhood Education
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 Visionary Future-Focused Innovation. Find out more about SDPC’s Academy for Early Learners and its implementation of Experiential Learning in 4K classrooms here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYkVJ_jesnA&t=2s
#VisionaryFutureFocusedInnovation
#EngagingToday
#EmpoweringTomorrow
🔒 Enhancing School Safety
This fall, SDPC high schools will begin using the Evolv Safety Screening system as part of our commitment to providing a secure learning environment for all students and staff.
Learn more about how this system works here: 👉 https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/evolv-safety-screening
#EngagingToday #EmpoweringTomorrow
This fall, SDPC high schools will begin using the Evolv Safety Screening system as part of our commitment to providing a secure learning environment for all students and staff.
Learn more about how this system works here: 👉 https://www.pickens.k12.sc.us/page/evolv-safety-screening
#EngagingToday #EmpoweringTomorrow
“Your experience is what you make it to be. If you get involved, and you plug yourself in, there is truly something at every high school for every person… Nobody lies when they say that your high school years fly by because they truly do, especially your senior year. So soak it in…” - Sara Beth Brock, Student Body President at Pickens High School, Class of ‘25
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. Hear more inspiring stories from the Class of 2025 here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDPU85Qe9C4
#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. Hear more inspiring stories from the Class of 2025 here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDPU85Qe9C4
#75YearsOfImpact
#EngagingToday
#EmpoweringTomorrow
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
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
