OCSD Arts Magazine Spring Edition

HKT High Celebrates the Harlem Renaissance

Holly Hill & Vance-Providence Black History Programs

OCSD Firsts - Inaugural OCSD Honor Choir

Artistic Expression at William J. Clark

Elloree Students Participate in SC Honor Choir

Mandy Davis: Rising Artistic Talent

REHMS Chorale Shines in Busy Season of Performances

Holly Hill and Vance-Providence Elementary Students Shine at the Gillard Center

Mellichamp and Bethune-Bowman Students Embark on an Artistic Adventure at Charleston Gibbes Museum and Columbia Museom of Art

Branchville Students Embrace Self-Reflection Through “When I See Myself, I See...” Project

As the school year draws to a close, we invite you to journey with us through the vibrant and dynamic spring semester at Orangeburg County School District. This term has been filled with remarkable achievements, memorable events, and inspiring performances, showcasing the talents and dedication of our students and faculty.

Orangeburg-Wilkinson Drama Club Presents Magical Production of Aladdin

A Seussical Celebration:

Holly Hill Elementary’s Year-End Spectacular

Sheridan Elementary Student Wins Top Honors in Palmetto Pride Art Contest Celebrating Talent and Community: Highlights from the Spring Family

THANK YOU SCAC !

The Orangeburg County School District extends its heartfelt gratitude to the South Carolina Arts Commission (SCAC) for its unwavering support through grant funding. This support has been instrumental in enriching our educational initiatives and promoting a vibrant arts environment within our schools. As we celebrate this partnership, we also aim to raise awareness about the crucial role of arts funding in fostering creativity, cultural understanding, and academic excellence.

For more than 50 years, the SCAC has been dedicated to building a thriving arts ecosystem that benefits all South Carolinians, regardless of their circumstances or location. Established in 1967, the SCAC has awarded over $114 million in grants to artists, arts organizations, school districts, schools, and teachers. This substantial investment has had a transformative impact, making arts education and experiences accessible to countless individuals across the state.

The SCAC’s commitment to the arts aligns perfectly with OCSD’s mission to provide a holistic education that nurtures the intellectual, emotional, and creative growth of our students. The grants we receive from the SCAC enable us to implement a variety of arts programs, including visual arts, music, theater, and dance, which are essential components of a well-rounded education.

Meet OCSD’s New Coordinator of Fine Arts

OCSD is proud to announce that Holly Hill Elementary Schools Principal, Johnnie Smith, will be taking on additional responsibilities as the Coordinator of Fine Arts for the Orangeburg County School District. This new role will be in conjunction with his ongoing duties as principal, marking a significant expansion of his influence and dedication to the district’s educational and artistic communities.

Mr. Smith, a passionate advocate for the arts, brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to his new position. Under his leadership, Holly Hill Elementary has seen substantial growth in its arts programs, with increased student participation and recognition in various local and regional competitions. His commitment to integrating arts into the school curriculum has been instrumental in creating a vibrant and creative learning environment.

The new position will see Mr. Smith working closely with art and music teachers across the district to develop curricula, organize events, and secure resources.

A Tribute to Black Visual Artists

HKT High School Celebrates the Harlem Renaissance

With a mission to honor the rich cultural legacy of Black artists, students at HKT High School were tasked with delving into the lives and works of prominent figures from the past and present. From the gritty streets of Harlem to the serene landscapes of the South, each artist’s story unfolded, leaving an indelible mark on the young minds of tomorrow.

The project, spearheaded by the school’s art department, aimed not only to educate but also to ignite a spark of creativity and appreciation for diversity within the student body. By immersing themselves in the narratives of artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Alma Thomas, Jacob Lawrence, Kara Walker, William H. Johnson, and many others, students gained a deeper understanding of the struggles, triumphs, and unique perspectives that shaped Black artistry throughout history.

Holly Hill & Vance-Providence Black History Programs

Vance-Providence Elementary School and Holly Hill Elementary School recently hosted inspiring Black History Month programs, celebrating the rich heritage and contributions of African Americans. At Vance-Providence, students performed moving recitations, songs, and skits that highlighted pivotal moments and figures in Black history, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation among attendees. Similarly, Holly Hill Elementary showcased a variety of student-led presentations, including musical performances, historical reenactments, and art displays, all aimed at honoring the legacy of African American culture and promoting a message of unity and respect. Both programs were a testament to the schools’ commitment to education, cultural awareness, and community engagement.

The Orangeburg County School District formed its first Honor Choir, an exciting new initiative showcasing the vocal talents of students from grades 4 through 9. This groundbreaking project, driven by the dedicated music teachers of OCSD, signifies a major step in promoting musical excellence and cultural enrichment within the district.

The Honor Choirs are divided into two ensembles: Choir 1, featuring students from grades 4 through 6, and Choir 2, comprising students from grades 7 through 9. These choirs aim to enhance students’ choral singing abilities, develop music literacy skills, and promote healthy vocal production. Participants will delve into a diverse array of musical genres, providing a rich educational experience that emphasizes both the joy and discipline of excellent singing.

Sheneice D. Smith, OCSD Choral Cadre Leader and Honor Choir Coordinator, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: “The formation of the OCSD Honor Choirs is a testament to our commitment to the arts and our students’ diverse talents. Through this program, we

aim to not only develop musical skills but also to foster a sense of community and collaboration among our young singers. We are excited to see them share their passion for music with the community.”

The inaugural performance of the OCSD Honor Choirs took place at the prestigious Barbara Vaughn Recital Hall at South Carolina State University on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. This event promised to be a celebration of musical talent and dedication, featuring performances from both Honor Choirs. Adding to the evening’s excitement, the program also included performances by collegiate choirs from South Carolina State University and Claflin University, highlighting a collaboration that bridges educational levels in the pursuit of musical excellence.

This event was open to the public, inviting community members to support and appreciate the musical achievements of OCSD’s young talents. The launch of the Honor Choirs marks a new era for the district, fostering a deep appreciation for the arts and nurturing the next generation of musicians.

OCSD Firsts

Inaugural OCSD Honor Choir

Artistic Expression

William J. Clark Middle School After-School Art Students participated in The SCEA 9th Annual Read Across South Carolina Art Contest 2023-2024. The art contest promotes literacy and art across South Carolina, and brings recognition to individual students, their teachers, and schools.

1st Place Winner, Hanika Faith DeGracia

2nd Place Winner, Prajwala Peddapalli

Honorable Mention, Shia Millen

Honorable Mention, Harmony Dreher

Honorable Mention, Nicole Ortiz

Additionally, Harmony Dreher won 3rd Place in the Lower Region Youth Art Month Digital Exhibition. She drew inspiration from Dora Fischer’s artwork.

at William J. Clark

Melissa Wright, a dedicated art teacher at William J. Clark with a philosophy of leading by example, has recently garnered recognition for her own artistic talents. Wright secured 2nd Place in the Art 2 Category for the “Open Adult” age group in the South Carolina Contest Preliminaries to the 2024 National Career Development Association’s Poetry and Art Contest. This prestigious accolade highlights not only her commitment to her craft but also her belief in the importance of continual personal and professional development.

Wright’s achievement in such a competitive contest speaks volumes about her dedication and skill in the arts. Her participation and success in the competition serve as a powerful inspiration to her students, demonstrating the value of pursuing one’s passions and striving for excellence. By actively engaging in the art community and showcasing her own work, Wright exemplifies the very lessons she imparts to her students: the importance of creativity, perseverance, and lifelong learning.

Elloree Students Participate in SC Honor Choir

Elloree Elementary School is proudly celebrating the achievements of four exceptional students who have been recognized as members of the 2024 S.C. Elementary Honor Choir. The talented students—Neshel Mantle, Marvelle Edwards, Mehki Fogle, and Messiah Harrison—have demonstrated their musical prowess and dedication, earning a prestigious spot in this esteemed choir.

The highlight of their journey was the performance on February 10 at the Metropolitan Convention Center in Columbia, SC. Their captivating performance left a lasting impression, earning them letters of congratulations from Senator Tim Scott. In his letters, Senator Scott commended the students on their outstanding performance and encouraged them to continue striving for excellence in all their endeavors.

Following their success in Columbia, Neshel, Marvelle, Mehki, and Messiah joined the OCSD Honor Choir I for another impressive performance on February 29. This concert took place at the Barbara Vaughn Recital Hall, located within the Fine Arts Building on the campus of South Carolina State University. Their participation in this event further showcased their exceptional talent and commitment to their musical education.

Mandy Davis, a student at HKT Middle/High School, has recently emerged as a notable artistic talent, earning 2nd place in the prestigious Claflin University Department of Art High School Art Show. Her achievement in this esteemed competition underscores her creative prowess and dedication to her craft, marking her as a rising star in the art world.

Davis’s artwork captivated judges and spectators alike with its striking visual impact and emotive depth. Her distinctive style and meticulous technique set her apart, showcasing a maturity and sophistication beyond her years. From vibrant paintings to intricate sculptures, Davis’s portfolio demonstrates a versatility and creativity that belies her age.

The Claflin University Department of Art High School Art Show provides a platform for talented young artists like Davis to showcase their work and gain recognition within the artistic community.

Mandy Davis Rising Artistic Talent

REHMS Chorale Shines in Busy Season of Performances

The REHMS Chorale has been on an impressive whirlwind of performances and events since February 28th, showcasing their talent and dedication across multiple venues and earning accolades along the way.

Their marathon began with an early start at the OCSD Honor Choir Clinic, where members honed their skills under expert guidance. Energized and inspired, the chorale then brought joy to the residents of The Oaks residential community with a heartfelt mini Black History Month (BHM) concert during lunch. This performance highlighted their versatility and commitment to sharing music with diverse audiences.

The very next day, February 29th, saw the chorale returning to school for a pivotal role in the Black History Program. Their performance was a poignant celebration of African American culture and history, resonating deeply with their peers and educators. Later that evening, they reconvened at South Carolina State University (SCSU) for the second day of the OCSD Honor Choir Clinic, culminating in the Inaugural Concert. This event marked a significant milestone for the chorale, providing a platform to showcase the culmination of their hard work and collaboration with other talented singers.

On March 4th, the REHMS Chorale reached another high point in their busy schedule by traveling to the Summer Corner Performance Arts Center. Here, they participated in the prestigious South Carolina Music Educators Association Choral Performance Assessment (SCMEA CPA). Their dedication and musical excellence were recognized with an EXCELLENT rating—a testament to their skill and the guidance of their directors. Notably, REHMS is the only middle school from the district to participate this year, making their achievement even more remarkable.

The series of events and performances not only demonstrated the chorale’s musical prowess but also their ability to connect with and inspire various communities. Their journey from the OCSD Honor Choir Clinic to the SCMEA CPA has been a testament to their hard work, resilience, and passion for music. The REHMS Chorale has undoubtedly set a high bar for future performances and continues to be a source of pride for their school and district.on a high traffic area where the display would be seen by a lot of people.

Holly

Hill and

Vance-Providence Elementary

Students Shine at the Gillard Center

The third-grade recorder choirs from Holly Hill Elementary and Vance-Providence Elementary School recently embarked on a memorable field trip to the Gillard Center in Charleston. This exciting excursion was centered around the young people’s concert, a special event designed to introduce children to the wonders of live orchestral music.

Mellichamp and Bethune-Bowman Students

Discover Art and Creativity at Columbia Museum of Art

Recently, a group of enthusiastic students from Mellichamp Elementary and Bethune Bowman schools embarked on an exciting educational adventure to the Columbia Museum of Art. This trip provided a unique opportunity for the young visitors to delve into the world of art and creativity, leaving them inspired and eager to create.

Upon arrival, the students’ excitement was palpable as they joined a guided tour of the museum’s diverse exhibits. A highlight of their visit was the chance to see a fashion collection by Sergio Hudson, a renowned fashion designer from Columbia, SC. This connection to a local icon added a personal touch to their experience, making the art more relatable and inspiring.

As they moved through the museum, the students encountered a variety of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and digital media. Knowledgeable guides led the tour, providing insightful explanations about the meaning and significance of each piece. The students were captivated by the stories behind the artworks and eagerly engaged in discussions, asking questions to deepen their understanding.

The educational experience didn’t end with the tour. Following their exploration of the exhibits, the students participated in a hands-on studio session. Guided by experienced artists, they were provided with materials and encouragement to create their own masterpieces. This studio time allowed the students to express themselves freely, exploring their creativity in a fun and supportive environment. They left with their own unique artworks, tangible memories of their inspiring day.

Celebrating Student Excellence Highlights from the SC Beta Convention

The SC Beta Convention, hosted by the National Beta organization, is a prestigious event that celebrates student achievement, leadership, and creativity across a wide range of categories. This year, students from Orangeburg County School District (OCSD) showcased their talents and skills in various competitions, leaving a mark of excellence and pride in their wake.

The convention aims to honor students for their achievements, character, and leadership qualities while encouraging growth through service and camaraderie. From its humble beginnings with 15 members at Landrum High School in Landrum, SC, National Beta has grown into an international student organization with 500,000 members annually, while still holding steadfast to its core values.

OCSD students had the opportunity to participate in a wide array of competitions, ranging from academic tests to visual and performing arts, STEAM competitions, and state office positions. The diversity of categories ensured that students with varying interests and talents could find a platform to shine.

Among the standout performers were several students who clinched top positions in their respective categories. Notable winners included Alethea Myers from Edisto Elementary School, who secured 2nd place in Creative Writing Elementary, and Zachary Goodwin from Holly Hill Elementary School, who claimed 1st place in Language Arts 5th Grade.

Other remarkable achievements included LaAngel Dizzley from Mellichamp Elementary School winning 1st place in Onsite Art Drawing Elementary, and Destiny Jamison and Braydan Joye from Branchville High School both earning 1st place in the Premier Performer Senior Singer category. Check out the full list of winners on the next page.u

Accessorized Design Elementary

3rd Place: Edisto Elementary School

Apparel Design Elementary

5th Place: Edisto Elementary School

Club Trading Pin Elementary

5th Place: St. James-Gaillard Elementary School

Color Photography Elementary

4th Place: Maliyah Fleming (Holly Hill Elementary School)

5th Place: Tucker Moorer (Edisto Elementary School)

Creative Writing Elementary

2nd Place: Alethea Myers (Edisto Elementary School)

Hand Drawn Anime Elementary

* 2nd Place: Ameko Jarrett (Holly Hill Elementary School)

3rd Place: Calvin Brown (Lockett Elementary School)

5th Place: Rilee Patterson (Edisto Elementary School)

Jewelry Elementary

1st Place: Aariel Lambright (Holly Hill Elementary School)

5th Place: Emma Cate Dukes (Lockett Elementary School)

Language Arts 4th Grade

3rd Place: Savannah Berry (Mellichamp Elementary School)

Language Arts 5th Grade

1st Place: Zachary Goodwin (Holly Hill Elementary School)

Living Literature Elementary

5th Place: Holly Hill Elementary School

Marketing & Communications Elementary 4th Place: Edisto Elementary School

Math 4th Grade

2nd Place: Kimberly Parker (St. James-Gaillard Elementary School)

3rd Place: Ahbri Smith (Elloree Elementary School)

4th Place: Cruz Shuler (Edisto Elementary School)

Math 5th Grade

4th Place: Avaeh Pratt (St. James-Gaillard Elementary School)

Mixed Media Elementary

1st Place: Tania Cerritos-Gomez (Holly Hill Elementary School)

2nd Place: Claire Dean (Edisto Elementary School)

3rd Place: Rhett McAlhany (Lockett Elementary School)

Musicology Elementary Oral

2nd Place: Holly Hill Elementary School

3rd Place: Edisto Elementary School

4th Place: St. James-Gaillard Elementary School

Onsite Art Drawing Elementary

1st Place: LaAngel Dizzley (Mellichamp Elementary School)

Performing Arts Elementary - Solo, Duo, Trio - Dancer

1st Place: St. James-Gaillard Elementary School

2nd Place: Lockett Elementary School

4th Place: Mellichamp Elementary School

Performing Arts Elementary - Solo, Duo, Trio - Vocalist

1st Place: Vance-Providence Elementary School

Performing Arts Elementary Small Group

1st Place: Holly Hill Elementary School

2nd Place: Edisto Elementary School

Performing Arts Junior - Solo, Duo, Trio - Dancer

5th Place: Holly Hill-Roberts Middle School

Poetry Elementary

4th Place: Emma Cate Dukes (Lockett Elementary School)

Pottery Elementary

2nd Place: Sa’Mari Wilkerson (Holly Hill Elementary School)

5th Place: Lawrence Garick (Lockett Elementary School)

Premier Performer Elementary Dancer

1st Place: Caedince Green (Holly Hill Elementary School)

Premier Performer Elementary Singer

1st Place: Takia Prezzy (Vance-Providence Elementary School)

Premier Performer Junior Dancer

1st Place: Lauren Jenkins (Holly Hill-Roberts Middle School)

Quilling Junior

2nd Place: Peyton Gilliard (Holly Hill-Roberts Middle School)

Quiz Bowl Elementary Oral 3rd Place: Holly Hill Elementary School

Robotics Junior 5th Place: Holly Hill-Roberts Middle School

Science 4th Grade

1st Place: Aniah Stokes (St. James-Gaillard Elementary School)

5th Place: Armani Francis (Elloree Elementary School)

Science 5th Grade

4th Place: Aedan Dyches (Lockett Elementary School)

Scrapbook Elementary 5th Place: St. James-Gaillard Elementary School

Sculpture Elementary 4th Place: Torriane Loller (Holly Hill Elementary School)

Social Studies 4th Grade

1st Place: Ni’Liyni McDaniel (St. James-Gaillard Elementary School)

Speech Elementary

1st Place: Imani Jean (Edisto Elementary School)

Spelling Bee Elementary Oral

1st Place: Caedince Green (Holly Hill Elementary School)

3rd Place: Rilee Patterson (Edisto Elementary School)

Technology Junior 4th Place: Holly Hill-Roberts Middle School

Two Dimensional Design Elementary

4th Place: Lockett Elementary School

Biomedical Health Science 9th Grade

3rd Place: Hart Young (Branchville High School)

French 9th Grade

2nd Place: Natalie Berry (Branchville High School)

Jewelry Division I

3rd Place: Leigha Bailey (Branchville High School)

Mixed Media Division I

3rd Place: Ava Kittrell (Branchville High School)

Pottery Division I

1st Place: Anna Win Berry (Branchville High School)

Premier Performer Senior Singer

1st Place: Destiny Jamison (Branchville High Schoo)

1st Place: Braydan Joye (Branchville High School)

Branchville Students Embrace Self-Reflection Through “When I See Myself, I See...” Project

In a journey of self-discovery and expression, 8th-grade students at Branchville Middle School embarked on the “When I See Myself, I See...” project, facilitated by the Gear Up program. Through the medium of self-portraiture, they were challenged to confront and articulate their own identities, aspirations, and innermost thoughts. The process involved not only capturing physical likeness but also delving into the emotions, values, and experiences that shape their sense of self.

In embracing their own identities and sharing their stories through art, the 8th-grade students of Branchville Middle School have not only created beautiful works of art but have also embarked on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment that will resonate with them for years to come.

Below you will find work from Ardyn Folk and Daisy O’Quinn.

Orangeburg-Wilkinson Drama Club Presents Magical Production of Aladdin

On April 25, 2024, the Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School Drama Club transported audiences to a whole new world with their enchanting production of Aladdin. With curtains rising at 10:30 AM, community members and fellow students gathered to witness the spectacle of this beloved tale brought to life on stage.

Filled with laughter, adventure, and heartwarming moments, the performance captivated viewers of all ages. From the mischievous antics of the lovable Genie to the courageous journey of Aladdin and Princess Jasmine, each character leaped from the pages of the storybook to capture the imagination of the audience.

A Seussical Celebration

Holly Hill Elementary’s Year-End Spectacular

Holly Hill Elementary School delivered a memorable and vibrant end-of-year concert that delighted parents, teachers, and fellow students alike. This year’s theme was a whimsical tribute to the beloved works of Dr. Seuss, brought to life through two captivating performances: “Seussical The Musical” and “Dr. Seuss Raps.”

The youngest stars of Holly Hill, the kindergarten through 2nd-grade students, opened the evening with their enchanting rendition of “Seussical The Musical.” Following the delightful musical, the stage was set for a modern twist on Seussian storytelling: “Dr. Seuss Raps,” performed by the 3rd through 5th-grade students. These older students took classic Dr. Seuss books and transformed them into dynamic rap performances, showcasing their impressive ability to blend rhythm, rhyme, and storytelling.

Sheridan Student Wins Top Honors in Palmetto Pride Art Contest

Sheridan Elementary School is beaming with pride as fifth-grade student Skye Magee clinched the top prize in the Low Country Region of the Palmetto Pride Art Contest. This prestigious contest, aimed at promoting environmental awareness through art, saw Skye’s outstanding artwork rise to the forefront, earning her well-deserved recognition and accolades.

The award ceremony took place at the South Carolina State Capitol Building, a fitting venue for such a significant achievement. In a moment of great honor, Lt. Governor Pamela Evette presented Skye with a monetary award, recognizing her exceptional talent and dedication to environmental advocacy through her art.

Skye was not alone in her moment of triumph. Her art teacher, Mr. Rodney Ott, whose guidance and encouragement played a crucial role in Skye’s success, was also honored at the ceremony. Mr. Ott and Sheridan Elementary School received monetary awards in recognition of their support for Skye and their commitment to fostering artistic excellence among students.

This achievement not only highlights Skye’s individual talent but also underscores the importance of arts education in our schools. Orangeburg County School District, under the leadership of dedicated educators like Mr. Ott, continues to cultivate a nurturing environment where students can explore their creativity and make meaningful contributions to important causes.

Celebrating Talent and Community

Highlights from the Spring Family Engagement Nights Series

The Spring Family Engagement Nights Series provided a vibrant showcase of talent from students and teachers across the district, delighting audiences with a diverse array of performances. These events, held in May, underscored the importance of community and family involvement in education, highlighting the incredible abilities of our students and the dedication of our educators.

On May 13, students from Edisto’s Multilingual Program dazzled the audience with a spirited bachata performance, bringing a touch of Latin dance flair to the evening. Meanwhile, HKT students showcased their vocal talents with impressive solo performances, serenading the audience with their melodious voices.

The OCSD Honor Choir I, featuring students from Elloree Elementary under the direction of Dr. Beverly Parler-Rice, and the Lake Marion Band led by Mr. Charles Outen, took center stage at the District Title One Parent Meeting on May 16. Their harmonious performances at Lake Marion High School, starting at 5:30 PM, were a highlight of the evening, demonstrating the power of musical collaboration. The Lake Marion Band and the spirited Lake Marion cheerleaders also added to the night’s energy and excitement.

On May 17, the series concluded with a dynamic event at Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School. The Kappa League, known for their leadership and community service, showcased their skills alongside the Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School cheerleaders, whose energetic routines captivated the audience.

These performances not only entertained but also strengthened the bond between schools and families, fostering a sense of community pride. The Spring Family Engagement Nights Series was a testament to the talents and dedication of our students and teachers, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

The Final Show

OCSD Graduates Take the Stage One Last Time

As the curtains close on their high school careers, Orangeburg County School District’s (OCSD) graduates are ready to take their final bow. This year’s graduation ceremonies are not only a time of celebration and reflection but also a stage for showcasing the incredible talents of our students one last time before they embark on their next journey.

These graduation performances were more than just acts of entertainment; they were a testament to the hard work, dedication, and creativity of OCSD’s students. They provided a fitting farewell to high school, celebrating the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. As these talented young individuals step into the future, they carry with them the lessons, memories, and friendships forged in their school years, ready to make their mark on the world.

OCSD ARTS