2023-2024 Sumter School District Welcome Guide

2023-24 Guide Welcome

From the Superintendent Welcome

On behalf of our Board of Trustees and the Sumter School District family, welcome to the 2023-2024 school year. We are thankful to partner with The Sumter Item to provide this welcome guide, which features valuable information regarding the remarkable educational opportunities that await our students, parents, employees and stakeholders.

Sumter School District is committed to developing an environment where students can thrive through our academic, athletic, fine arts and extracurricular programs. Our schools infuse 21st Century teaching by emphasizing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), the use of digital libraries and the implementation of cutting edge technology. Our students have access to world languages, fine arts, Adavnaced Placement, college-level dual enrollment, the International Baccalaureate program and the Gifted and Talented program. Through our expansive Career and Technology Education (CTE) courses and numerous offerings at the Sumter Career and Technology Center, our students are developing career-ready skills. Sumter School District also produces well-rounded students through robust athletic programs and award winning extracurricular clubs and organizations.

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond the confines of the classroom. We are passionate about fostering strong partnerships with parents, guardians and community

stakeholders. Your involvement and support are invaluable as we work together to create a safe, enriching and supportive environment for our students.

In closing, I consider it an honor to serve as your superintendent, and I extend my deepest gratitude to you for entrusting us with the education of your children. We are committed to providing an extraordinary educational experience that nurtures our students’ individual talents, unleashes their potential and equips them with the tools they need for local and global success. Together, let us make this an exceptional year filled with Sumter School District APPEAL – Advancing Potential and Pursuing Excellence for All Learners. We are #SSDShiningStars!

Dr. William T. Wright Jr.

Superintendent, Sumter School District

What's Inside

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PO Box 1385 ---- Sumter, SC 29151

From The Sumter Item

On behalf on The Sumter Item staff, I’d like to welcome you to the 2023-24 Sumter School District Welcome Guide. As the Sumter region’s leader in media for more than 129 years, we are glad you are here and hope you enjoy this magazine.

Inside these pages and throughout this school year, you will see complete and vibrant coverage of our local schools through The Sumter Item. From features on exceptional student achievement to explanations of complex budget issues to videos showing unique programs in our schools, our mission as Sumter’s premier media company is to keep you informed and entertained. We are ready to help encourage and develop lifelong learners within our community.

The Sumter Item of today is more than just a newspaper. Studio Sumter, the video wing of our media company, produces shows such as Sumter Today. Posted weekdays at TheItem.com and Facebook.com/theitem, the all-positive news show highlights some of the great things happening throughout our community, including much of the activities inside our schools. We also recognize and highlight exceptional teachers and counselors throughout our region, featuring those community heroes across our platforms.

Our popular local sports coverage is also on display daily inside our newspaper, as well as on our website, in video coverage and throughout multiple social media platforms. Follow The Item Sports across our social pages for exciting, expanding coverage of our local teams throughout this school year.

If you have not already, please consider subscribing to our local print and digital coverage at The Sumter Item. You can do so by visiting TheItem.com/subscribe.

I’d also like to thank our incredible local business partners who make this magazine possible. Throughout these pages, you will see many of the people and businesses committed to helping build our school system and a better Sumter.

Thanks to everyone who plays a role in building our community through education, and we hope you have a great school year.

Vince Johnson Publisher, The Sumter Item

Who to call

Sumter School District

1345 Wilson Hall Road

Sumter, SC 29150

(803) 469-6900

www.sumterschools.net

Dr. William Wright Jr., Superintendent Ext. 100

William.wright@sumterschools.net

Chauntae Scott, Administrative Manager to Superintendent and Board of Trustees Ext. 100

Chauntae.scott@sumterschools.net

Dr. Shirley Gamble, Chief of Schools Ext. 103

Anthonese.gamble@sumterschools.net

Dr. John Koumas, Chief Human Resources Officer Ext. 208

John.koumas@sumterschools.net

Shatika Spearman, Chief Finance Officer Ext. 312

Shatika.spearman@sumterschools.net

Veronne Davis, Executive Director of Student Support Services

(803) 774-5500

Veronne.davis@sumterschools.net

Shelly Galloway, Executive Director of Communication and Community Engagement Ext. 102

Shelly.galloway@sumterschools.net

Arpad Jonas, Executive Director of Information Systems and Technology Ext. 132

Arpad.jonas@sumterschools.net

Dr. Jadé McLeod, Executive Director of Academics Ext. 516

Jade.mcleod@sumterschools.net

Samuel Myers, Executive Director of Operations

Ext. 510

Samuel.myers@sumterschools.net

Food Services

Stacey Francis, Director of Food Services

4255 Peach Orchard Road

Dalzell, SC 29040

Phone: (803) 499-5950, ext. 109

Stacey.francis@sumterschools.net

Transportation Services

Leonard Brailsford, Area One

Hillcrest Transportation Office (Crestwood High feeder schools)

4305 Peach Orchard Road

Dalzell, SC 29040

Phone: (803) 499-3422

Leonard.brailsford@sumterschools.net

Joshua Johnson, Area Two

Sumter High Transportation Office (Sumter High feeder schools)

2580 McCrays Mill Road

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: (803) 481-4023, ext. 6235

Joshua.johnson@sumterschools.net

Brian Jones, Area Three

Furman Transportation Office (Lakewood High feeder schools) 3400 Bethel Church Road

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: (803) 481-3168 or 481.3169

Brian.jones@sumterschools.net

Maintenance/Warehouse

Chris Catoe, Director of Maintenance

1345 Wilson Hall Road

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 803.469.6900, ext. 602

Christopher.catoe@sumterschools.net

DISTRICT OVERVIEW

Sumter School District works diligently to help all students to develop the world class skills, life and career characteristics of the Profile of the SC Graduate by equipping them to be responsible, successful and productive citizens in a global society. We focus on student achievement by ensuring challenging curricula and high expectations. Gaining reaccreditation by COGNIA, the organization that conducts rigorous, on-site, external reviews of schools and school systems to ensure that all learners realize their full potential, is evidence of our academic success and continuous improvement. Our academic programs address rigorous standards in language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. Research-based best practices focus on problem solving, critical thinking, creativity and collaboration. Data is used to plan and implement instruction in order to differentiate instruction, monitor student progress and set appropriate goals. A MultiTiered System of Support (MTSS) uses databased problem solving to integrate academic and behavioral instruction and intervention.

The district infuses 21st Century teaching by emphasizing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), the use of digital libraries and the implementation of cutting edge technology. Our students have access to world languages, fine arts, Advanced Placement, college-level dual enrollment, the International Baccalaureate program and the Gifted and Talented program. Through our expansive

#SSDShiningStars

Career Technical Education (CTE) courses and numerous offerings at the Sumter Career and Technology Center, our students are developing career-ready skills. Sumter School District also produces well-rounded students through robust athletic programs and award-winning extracurricular clubs and organizations. Our students develop life and career characteristics and soft skills through career exploration including exposure to employers via career fairs, shadowing, work cooperatives and partnerships; efforts and events sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce and workforce readiness partners; and mentoring programs. Character development is encouraged and taught through character education, classroom guidance, small groups and intervention programs. Sumter School District works diligently to ensure that every student graduates on time and is prepared for post-secondary education, is career ready and has the foundation to become a productive citizen. A strong partnership between our families, the community and school personnel greatly enhances academic progress, and we are extremely grateful for your continued support. Sumter School District remains committed to providing every student with a high quality education which will serve as a foundation for their future success.

Primary Care

Eagerton Family Practice

Robert S. Eagerton, MD* / Carmen Roberts, DO

Amber P. Newman, NP

200 East Hospital Street, Manning, SC 29102 (803) 433-0439

* Not accepting new patients at this time

McLeod Primary Care Clarendon

Lisa E. Heichberger, MD / Laine Way, MD

Susan Caulkins, FNP / Susanne Johnson, FNP

50 East Hospital Street, Suite 3 Manning, SC 29102 (803) 435-8828

Palmetto Adult Medicine Sumter

Harry A. Jordan, Jr., MD

Andrew J. Reynolds, MD

Hugh T. Stoddard, Jr., MD

Katherine S. Coffey, PA-C

James R. McMahon, FNP

Emily J. Miller, PA-C

1295 Wilson Hall Road, Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 905-6800

McLeod Primary Care Turbeville

Michael O. Ouzts, DO / Abbie Kirby, PA-C

Amanda McConnell, PA-C

944 Smith Street, Turbeville, SC 29162 (843) 659-2114

McLeod Family Medicine Kingstree

Andrew Gulledge, FNP

Raina McKenzie, PA-C

1200 North Longstreet Street, Kingstree, SC 29556 (843) 355-5459

Cardiology

McLeod Cardiology Associates

Prabal Guha, MD / Dennis Lang, DO

Jennifer Weich, NP

540 Physicians Lane, Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 883-5171

Manning Clinic:

21 East Hospital Street, Manning, SC 29102

Here for Life

Obstetrics and Gynecology

McLeod Women’s Care Clarendon

Monica Ploetzke, MD / Thomas C. Key, MD

Katee L. Wyant, MD / Tom Chappell, CNM

Allison Saran, CNM, WHNP

Rebecca Cartledge, APRN, CNM

Shaquinda Dowdle, DNP, APRN, CNM

50 East Hospital Street, Suite 2, Manning, SC 29102 (803) 433-0797

Orthopedics

McLeod Orthopaedics Associates

Rodney K. Alan, MD / Chaz McDonald, NP

Scarlett Manchin, NP

540 Physicians Lane, Sumter, SC 29150 (843) 777-7900

50 East Hospital Street, Suite 6, Manning, SC 29102 (803) 433-3065

Surgery

McLeod Surgery Clarendon

Devonne D. Barrineau, MD / Laura Collins, FNP

50 East Hospital Street, Suite 4, Manning, SC 29102 (803) 435-2822

Urology

McLeod Urology Associates Sumter

Michelle B. Miller, NP

540 Physicians Lane, Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 340-5100

Vascular

McLeod Vascular Associates

540 Physicians Lane, Sumter, SC 29150 (843) 777-7043

It is imperative that students attend school regularly. While some absences for illness are unavoidable, nothing can replace the educational, cultural and social contacts students experience through regular participation in class. Students with good attendance achieve more than students who are often absent. Attendance is also a major criterion in preparing students for the world of work.

According to state law, students must attend a minimum of 180 days of school a year. New state attendance requirements identify a student as absent if a student is not in attendance for at least 50% of the instructional day. Additionally, students designated as absent (regardless of the reason) for 10% or more days of instruction will be reported to the State Department of Education as chronically absent.

Written notes from the parent, guardian or attending physician must be submitted within five days after returning to school, or the absence will be considered unlawful. An absence is considered lawful when it is the result of illness, death in the immediate

family, emergencies and recognized religious holidays. Parents/guardians can only submit 10 notes per year. For high school students, parents/ guardians can only submit five per semester.

South Carolina law states that a student is deemed truant after three consecutive unlawful absences or a total of five unlawful absences. School attendance personnel will contact the parent/guardian regarding unlawful absences and will schedule a conference to develop cooperatively a Student Attendance Intervention Plan, as required by law.

High school students who have more than five unlawful absences in a one-unit course or three unlawful absences in a half-unit course may lose credit for the course. Absences are counted in the high schools and middle schools by class, so students are encouraged to report promptly to every class.

For further information on attendance laws, contact Coordinator of Attendance Services at (803) 4696900, extension 507.

New Student Registration Information

Parents who plan to enroll their child in Sumter School District for the first time are encouraged to enroll as soon as possible to avoid last minute crowds. Parents may register their child in the school zoned for their residence during regular school hours. Persons unsure of their school zone may contact the district’s attendance office at (803) 469-6900, extension 507.

Children must be 4 or 5 on or before Sept. 1 to enroll in prekindergarten or kindergarten, respectively. State law mandates that children ages 5 to 17 must be in school.

Upon registration, parents are required to

provide school personnel with the child’s official birth certificate or other proof of name and age, proof of residence and the SC Immunization Form (DHEC 4024).

The district recommends that parents of children transferring from another school district also bring the child’s latest report card. Children transferring from out of state must have their health certificate information on a South Carolina form. Parents must take out-of-state certificates to a doctor or clinic in South Carolina to have the information transferred to the correct form.

is important on the first and all days of school

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Official Birth Certificate

Proof of Residence

Physical Examination Form (Kindergarten Only)

Medicaid Card/Proof of Income (PreK Only)

South Carolina Immunization Form 4024

All children are required to be immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, mumps, chicken pox, red and German measles, and Hepatitis B.

To register, please visit the school your child is zoned to attend and bring the required documentation. Or, register online at www.sumterschools.net.

Kindergarten students must be five years old by September 1, 2023.

Prekindergarten students must be four years old on or before September 1, 2023.

The prekindergarten program is not state mandated, and there are a limited number of slots available at each school.

To qualify for this program, students must have Medicaid, or meet the federal family income eligibility table. Students will be prescreened using a state-approved instrument. After July 1, students can qualify based on test scores.

Established in 2012, the Sumter Education Foundation serves as the philanthropic arm for Sumter School District. They operate independently from the school district under a separate Board of Directors. The Foundation is a chartered corporation in South Carolina and is tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Any gift to the Foundation provides a corresponding tax liability deduction from State and Federal income taxes (Taxpayer Identification # 57-0963633). All donations received are for the exclusive use of Sumter School District based on priorities established by the Foundation’s Board of Directors. This commitment includes teacher innovation and recognition, student recognition,

special programs/projects and grants for teachers. The Board of Directors acts as a fiscal agent for donors who wish to sponsor projects for schools, teachers and students. They also serve as a review committee for program ideas, gifts and grants available to schools and to individual departments, teachers, students and student groups to further the educational purposes of the Sumter Education Foundation and Sumter School District. Recognizing that the quality of education is important to the well-being of the community it serves, the Foundation Board will build upon the strong school system to ensure all students will be prepared to live, work and compete in tomorrow’s challenging workplace.

The Sumter Partners In Education program is a joint venture between the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce and Sumter School District. By establishing and maintaining creative, quality partnerships to support Sumter’s schools, our community is making a positive difference for Sumter’s children. Individuals, businesses and groups are all instrumental in the success of our partnership efforts.

No business or organization is too large or small to serve as a partner. Each can contribute in a variety of ways, all of which are integral in ensuring each student receives the best education possible. Partner activities include financial contributions, in-kind donations and services, sponsorship of events and awards, attendance and academic incentives, internships, volunteering and mentoring. In turn, schools offer the partners what they can in order to make the partnership truly beneficial for both partners.

Partnerships not only benefit students and schools, they also strengthen and provide advantages to the community. Today’s students will be the workforce of tomorrow. By investing in students’ education, the local community is essentially investing in itself to ensure its success for tomorrow.

If you are interested in becoming a community partner or adopting a school, please contact Shelly Galloway, executive director of communication and community engagement, at 469-6900, extension 102. Become a Sumter Partner In Education, and help make students’ dreams come true.

During periods of unsafe weather conditions when it may be questionable to hold school, the school district has several options including closing school, opening schools one hour late or opening schools two hours late.

Decisions for any of these options will be announced to the public no later than 5 a.m. on the day in question on the following local radio and television stations: WIBZ 95.5 FM, WKHT 93.7 FM, WICI 94.7 FM, and WDXY 1240 AM. The television stations used are WIS TV 10, WOLO TV 25, WBTW 13, WACH 6, and WLTX TV 19. Information is also announced on the Sumter School District website, Facebook page, and Twitter page. In the event of inclement weather, parents will also be notified by telephone through Blackboard Connect. Please make sure the school has your correct contact information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE ONLY MADE IF THERE IS A DELAY OR CLOSING.

Safety School

The first and most important priority of Sumter School District is the safety of our students and staff. Certainly in this day and age we can never be absolutely protected against all circumstances, but we do educate our students and staff throughout the year and rely on our parents to help us ensure we reinforce our own safety procedures.

Our joint emergency action plans were developed in accordance with state and federal best practices and in partnership with local public safety professionals. Law enforcement is a partner in the annual review of the plans, and they evaluate our implementation of emergency drills and provide training for school staff as requested. The review of our plans reveal strengths and weaknesses, and in some cases, procedures are revised or enhanced.

Each joint emergency action plan at the school level helps prepare school sites on lockdown drills, evacuation procedures, natural disaster precautions as well as communication with families, students, parents and communities during a crisis. School safety procedures also address the access of our buildings by the public. A variety of drills are conducted on a regular basis. Training in school safety for school staff takes place throughout the year, and the school district also provides immediate crisis response training for the Disturbance Intervention Response teams and the Mental Health Support teams. Again, the safety and security of our students and staff is a top priority at all times in Sumter School District. Working together, we can ensure that the educational process is allowed to continue in the safe, uninterrupted environment that our children deserve.

School Directory

Alice Drive Elementary School

Eric Masiatis, Principal

251 Alice Drive

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 775-0857 Fax: 775-7580

http://ade.sumterschools.net

Cherryvale Elementary School

Debra Healey, Acting Principal

1420 Furman Drive

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 494-8200 Fax: 494-8233

http://ces.sumterschools.net

Crosswell Drive Elementary School

Dr. Shawn Hagerty, Principal

301 Crosswell Drive

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 775-0679 Fax: 778-2857

http://cde.sumterschools.net

High Hills Elementary School

Dr. Mary Kay Norton, Principal

1705 Frierson Road

Shaw AFB, SC 29152

Phone: 499-3327 Fax: 499-9553

http://hhes.sumterschools.net

Kingsbury Elementary School

Phillip Jackson, Principal

825 Kingsbury Road

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 775-6244 Fax: 775-7021

http://kbe.sumterschools.net

Lemira Elementary School

Stephanie Gregg, Principal 952 Fulton St.

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 775-0658 Fax: 778-2730

http://lme.sumterschools.net

Manchester Elementary School

Brandon Wells, Principal

200 E. Clark St.

Pinewood, SC 29125

Phone: 452-5454 Fax: 452-5423

http://mes.sumterschools.net

Millwood Elementary School

Jessica Wright, Principal 24 Pinewood Road

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 775-0648 Fax: 436-2987

http://mwe.sumterschools.net

Oakland Primary School

Josh Campbell, Principal 5415 Oakland Drive

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 499-3366 Fax: 499-3361

http://ops.sumterschools.net

Pocalla Springs Elementary School

Michelle-Curry McBride, Principal

2060 Bethel Church Road

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 481-5800 Fax: 481-5813

http://pses.sumterschools.net

R.E. Davis College Preparatory

Academy

Maria Dantzler, Principal 345 Eastern School Road

Sumter, SC 29153

Phone: 495-3247 Fax: 495-3211

http://redcpa.sumterschools.net

Rafting Creek Elementary School

Anita Hunter, Principal 4100 Hwy. 261 North Rembert, SC 29128

Phone: 432-2994 Fax: 425-7386

http://rces.sumterschools.net

Shaw Heights Elementary School

Dr. Melissa Morris, Principal 1495 Frierson Road

Shaw AFB, SC 29152

Phone: 803-666-2335 Fax: 803-6663719

http://shes.sumterschools.net

Wilder Elementary School

Michael Riggins, Principal 975 S. Main St.

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 773-5723 Fax: 778-2918

http://wld.sumterschools.net

Willow Drive Elementary School

Jackie Thomas, Principal 26 Willow Drive

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 773-5796 Fax: 778-2847

http://wde.sumterschools.net

Alice Drive Middle School

Jeannie Pressley, Principal 40 Miller Road

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone:775-0821 Fax: 778-2929

http://adm.sumterschools.net

Bates Middle School

Nicole Lash Fuller, Principal 715 Estate St.

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 775-0711 Fax: 775-0715

http://bms.sumterschools.net

Chestnut Oaks Middle School

Jenaii Edwards, Principal 1200 Oswego Road

Sumter, SC 29153

Phone: 775-7272 Fax: 775-7601

http://coms.sumterschools.net

Ebenezer Middle School

Bertha Timmons, Principal

3440 Ebenezer Road

Sumter, SC 29153

Phone: 469-8571 Fax: 469-8575

http://ems.sumterschools.net

Furman Middle School

J. Tanner Curry, Principal 3400 Bethel Church Road

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 481-8519 Fax: 481-8923

http://fms.sumterschools.net

Hillcrest Middle School

Tarsha Staggers, Principal

4355 Peach Orchard Road

Dalzell, SC 29040

Phone: 499-3341 Fax: 499-3353

http://hms.sumterschools.net

Maintenance/Warehouse

Chris Catoe, Dir. of Maintenance

1345 Wilson Hall Road

Sumter, 29150

Phone: 469-6900, ext. 602

Food Services

Stacey Francis, Dir. of Food Serv.

4255 Peach Orchard Road

Dalzell, SC 29040

Phone: 499-5950, ext. 109

Fax: 499-5959

Crestwood High School

Dr. Jayson Leach, Principal 2000 Oswego Road

Sumter, SC 29153

Phone: 469-6200 Fax: 469-7678

http://chs.sumterschools.net

Lakewood High School

Dr. Maggie Wright, Principal

350 Old Manning Road

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 506-2700 Fax: 506-2712

http://lhs.sumterschools.net

Sumter High School

Anamaria Sandor, Principal

2580 McCrays Mill Road

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 481-4480 Fax: 481-4021

http://shs.sumterschools.net

Sumter Academy for Support and Intervention

James Boone, Principal 475 Crosswell Drive

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 774-5900 Fax: 774-5901

http://ba.sumterschools.net

Transportation Services

Leonard Brailsford, Area One Hillcrest Transportation O ce (Crestwood High feeder schools)

4305 Peach Orchard Road

Dalzell, SC 29040 Phone: 499-3422

Joshua Johnson, Area Two Sumter High Trans. O ce (Sumter High feeder schools)

2580 McCrays Mill Road

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 481-4023

Sumter Career and Technology

Center

Dr. Shirrie Miller, Principal

2612 McCrays Mill Road

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 481-8575 Fax: 481-4232

http://sctc.sumterschools.net

Sumter School District

Administrative Office

Dr. William T. Wright Jr., Superintendent

1345 Wilson Hall Road

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 469-6900 Fax: 469-3769

http://sumterschools.net

Sumter School District Annex

Veronne Davis

Executive Director of Student Support Services

220 Hasel Street

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 803-774-5500

Sumter Adult Education

Dr. Vanessa Canty, Director

905 N. Main St.

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 778-6432 Fax: 775-4665

Brian Jones, Area ree

Furman Transportation O ce (Lakewood High feeder schools) 3400 Bethel Church Road

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 481-3168 or 481-3169

*All phone numbers are area code (803)

Board of Trustees

District 3 104 S. Salem Ave. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 983-1469

ralph.canty@sumterschools.net

Vice-Chairman District 9 Swan Lake Drive Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 983-0268

bonnie.disney@sumterschools.net

District 1 6585 Hidden Haven Road Sumter, SC 29154 (803) 883-6119

daniel.palumbo@sumterschools.net

District 6 2985 Bruce Circle Sumter, SC 29154 (803) 938-2701/Cell

mac.mcleod@sumterschools.net

About the Board

Parliamentarian District 7 1300 Goodson Road Sumter, SC 29153 (803) 983-7157

shery.smith@sumterschools.net

Sumter School District is governed by nine elected members of the Board of Trustees. The Board sets policy, approves the budget, works with the Sumter County Legislative Delegation and Sumter County Council on issues of importance to the schools and oversees the efficient operation of the District.

The Board is committed to the education of students to the best of their individual abilities; to a constant awareness of the concerns and desires of the community regarding the quality and performance of the school system, with

District 8 440 Veranda Drive Sumter, SC 29150 (803)607-0797

jeff.zell@sumterschools.net

the Board assuming an educational leadership role; to the employment of a superintendent who will see that the district maintains a position as an outstanding school system and under whose leadership the school personnel will carry out the policies of the Board; and to the continued improvement of the district schools for the benefit of its students and their improved academic achievement.

Ralph Canty Sr., D.Min. Chairman

Bonnie S. Disney Esq.

Matthew “Mac” McLeod

Daniel P. Palumbo

Jeffrey E. Zell

Shery White

Contact Information

Brittany English District 2

6760 Spring Hill Road Rembert, SC 29128 (803) 968-8899

brittany.english@sumterschools.net

Tarah Cousar-Johnson District 4

4770 Narrow Paved Road. Lynchburg, SC 29080 (843) 412-4811

tarah.cousarjohnson@sumterschools.net

Shawn T. Ragin, D.Min. Clerk District 5 3835 Quiet Court Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 464-6859

Shawnragin89@gmail.com

Additionally, the board’s goals are as follows:

Chauntae Scott Administrative Manager to the Superintendent and Board 1345 Wilson Hall Road Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 469-6900, ext. 100 chauntae.scott@sumterschools.net

Dr. William T. Wright Jr. Superintendent 1345 Wilson Hall Road Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 469-6900, ext. 100 william.wright@sumterschools.net

• To communicate the educational expectations and aspirations of the community through the formulation of policies that stimulate the learner and the learning process;

• To manage the school system in accordance with board policy;

• To provide leadership in order that the goals and objectives of the school system can be effectively carried out;

• To maintain two-way communication with various publics served by the schools in order to interpret public attitudes, to identify policies and procedures of the schools, and to encourage public involvement with and understanding of the schools;

• To evaluate the data appropriate for the management functions of planning, evaluating, organizing and implementing the goals and objectives of the district; and

• To demonstrate fiscal responsibility and align district resources with raising student achievement. The Board of Trustees meets publicly on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the District Office unless otherwise announced. Special meetings are scheduled as needed. Our Board is a member of the South Carolina School Boards Association, and 100% of our members have completed the state’s orientation program.

Kristen Wildman, USAF Shaw AFB Representative

Career Readiness

Sumter School District exposes students in grades K-12 to college and career readiness information. At the elementary level, students participate in career awareness activities; middle school students participate in career exploration activities such as interest and values assessments and the eighth grade Individual Graduation Plan conference; and in high school, students receive career guidance services to include interest skills and values assessments, job shadowing opportunities, internships, youth apprenticeships and cooperative learning opportunities that support choosing a cluster and major within the curriculum frameworks as part of their annual Individual Graduation Plan Conference. At all levels, CTE/Career Specialists sponsor field studies, which are different from field trips in that the field

study is intended to expose students to career related information relevant to their age group. These activities are all in accordance with the Education and Economic Development Act’s (EEDA) initiative of Personal Pathways to Success. Some of the programs used are the Microburst Employability Skills program and South Carolina Information System. Work-Based Learning (WBL) is a coordinated, sponsored, coherent sequence of workplace experiences that are related to students’ career goals and/or interests, are based on instructional preparation and are performed in partnership with local businesses, industries or other organizations in the community. WBL enables students to apply classroom instruction in a real-world business or service-oriented work environment.

Employment: Career Advancement

Continuing education and lifelong learning

Post-secondary: Career Preparation

Achieving credentials: college, certification, apprenticeships, military

9-12: Career Preparation

Academics and technical courses, intensive guidance, individual graduation plans

8: Transition

Choosing a cluster of study and major (can change easily at any time)

6-8: Career Exploration

Discovering interest areas

K-5: Career Awareness

Introduction to the world of careers

Every step along the Pathway is crucial to making each student's future a success.

Points Pride of

Sumter School District Accomplishments

• Accredited by the COGNIA Accreditation Commission

• $19 million awarded in merit-based scholarships to the Class of 2023

• Purple Star School District

• Over 60 National Board Certified teachers

• Palmetto Gold and Silver Award recipients

• Drop-out rate below the state average

• COGNIA Accredited STEM schools: Alice Drive Middle School, Bates Middle, Alice Drive Elementary, Sumter Career and Technology Center

• STEM cohort schools, AVID schools, Leader in Me schools, an International Baccalaureate school, Arts in Basic

Curriculum schools, one National Blue Ribbon Points of Light school, Project Lead the Way Schools, Southern Regional Education Board schools and

Ben Carson Reading Rooms

• National and state recognition for academic, fine arts and athletic programs

• South Carolina Department of Education approved eLearning district

• One-to-Global Technology Initiative

• Over $500,000 in classroom library books donated to schools through Sumter Education Foundation

• Five State Teacher of the Year Finalists and one State Teacher of the Year

• Partners in Education initiative for mentors and community partners

• Collaborates with business, military, faith-based, public safety, civic and higher education community partners to help ensure our students are college, career and or military ready

• Principal for the Day

• Universal free breakfast and lunch

• Full day prekindergarten program

• Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) program

• Air Force Junior ROTC at all high schools

• Extensive offerings for extracurricular, athletic and fine arts programs

• Special programs: Mild Intellectual Disabilities, Moderate Intellectual Disabilities, Specific Learning Disability, Emotional and Behavioral Disorder, Blind/Low Vision, Orthopedically Disabled, Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Communication Disorder

• Career Technical Education (CTE) in the middle and high schools, in addition to programs offered at the Sumter Career and Technology Center

• Talented and Gifted program

• Advanced Placement courses

• Dual Credit courses with USC Sumter and Central Carolina Technical College

• Early College program through USC Sumter

• Adult Education program

• Launching Pilgrims Mobile STEM Explorer and Cyber Security Bus

• Comprehensive guidance

• School psychologists and social workers

• Alternative programs for at-risk youth

• Service learning

About Sumter School District

Motto To Educate, Empower and Enrich!

Values and Beliefs

« Commitment to Excellence: Educational excellence requires that all stakeholders strive for continual growth and improvement.

« Unyielding Ethical Standards: Build and maintain an standards.

« Accountability: All stakeholders are accountable for their actions and will be responsive to the needs of others.

« Educating the Whole Child: All students are granted the opportunity to succeed based on individual needs.

« Providing a Safe Learning Environment: Students have the right to learn in an environment conducive to learning.

« Collaboration and Support amongst Stakeholders: Pervasive and valuable collaborative efforts create meaningful strategies and solutions.

Mission Sumter School District is committed to providing a safe, nurturing and high-quality educational environment that supports diversity and equips students for local and global success.

Vision

Sumter School District is committed to educating, empowering and enriching the lives of all students to reach their full potential.

Nondiscrimination Statement

Sumter School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability or age in admission to, treatment in or employment in its programs and activities.

District Teacher of the Year Finalists

Kelli Howard, High Hills Elementary School

Kelli is a fifth-grade English language arts and social studies teacher and has nine years of service to education. Kelli said teaching is an essential component for impacting future generations. Aside from helping students gain useful skills, being a teacher allows her to be a role model for students and influence their character development to make futures more bright.

Kyle Austin, Sumter High School

Kyle is a science teacher and has 12 years of service to education. In the last six years, Kyle has built up a community service club of high school students that has an impact on our community and grows future leaders. Seeing the kids accomplish projects for Sumter and being recognized for their hard work has been a rewarding experience.

Shevonne Richardson, Crestwood High School

Shevonne is a science teacher and has five years of service to education. The most rewarding part of her career is when her students' attitudes shift from "ugh, science" to "wow, this is interesting!" What's even more rewarding is when Shevonne inspires her students to pursue careers in science or education.

Campus Teachers of the Year

Karen Ressler Alice Drive Elementary School

Emily Davenport Cherryvale Elementary School

Erica Butler Crosswell Drive Elementary School

Kelli Howard High Hills Elementary School

Stephanie McCormick Kingsbury Elementary School

Marlene Levine

Lemira Elementary School

Brittney Johnson Manchester Elementary School

Emily Burns Millwood Elementary School

Taheshi Fortune Oakland Primary School

Taylor O'Connor Pocalla Springs Elementary School

Danisha Griffin Rafting Creek Elementary School

Brandon Middleton RE Davis College

Preparatory Academy

Melissa Porter

Shaw Heights Elementary School

Lessie Bernshouse Wilder Elementary School

Allison Tyner Willow Drive Elementary School

Chase Ferguson Alice Drive Middle School

Sharell Grant Bates Middle School

Christal Tisdale Chestnut Oaks Middle School

Jennifer Wolfe Ebenezer Middle School

Cynthia Saulsgiver Furman Middle School

Tremain Owens Hillcrest Middle School

Shevonne Richardson Crestwood High School

Larry Cornelius Lakewood High School

Kyle Austin Sumter High School

Larry Culick Sumter Career and Technology Center

Charlene McKnight Sumter Academy for Support and Intervention

July 2023

August 2023

September 2023

Sumter School District

2023-2024

Modified Year-Around Calendar

July 27 School Level Orientation for Staff

July 28 District Professional Learning

July 31 School Professional Learning

Aug. 1 District Opening Meeting at Sumter Civic Center (8:30 AM) Afternoon School Workday

Aug. 2 School Workday

Aug. 3 Students Begin

Sept. 1 School Professional Learning 1/2 Day

Sept. 4 Labor Day Holiday

Sept. 6 Interims Issued

Oct. 5 School Professional Learning 1/2 Day

Oct. 5 Last Day of 1st Quarter

Oct. 6 District Professional Learning

Oct. 9-10 Fall Break

Oct. 11 First Day of 2nd Quarter

Oct. 20 Report Cards Issued

Nov. 10 Veterans Day Holiday

Nov. 15 Interims Issued

Nov. 20-24 Thanksgiving

Dec. 19 High School Exams 1/2 Day (All Students)

Dec. 20 High School Exams 1/2 Day (All Students)

Dec. 20 Last Day of 2nd Quarter

Dec. 21-Jan. 3 Winter Holidays

Jan 4 School Workday

Jan. 5 District Professional Learning

Jan. 8 School Resumes

Jan. 8 First Day of 3rd Quarter

January 2024

February 2024

October 2023

Jan. 15 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

Jan. 17 Report Cards Issued

Feb. 9 Interims Issued

Feb. 15 School Professional Learning 1/2 Day

Feb. 16 District Professional Learning

Feb. 19 Holiday

March 8 School Professional Learning 1/2 Day

March 13 Last Day of 3rd Quarter

March 14 First Day of 4th Quarter

March 22 Report Cards Issued

March 29 Spring Holidays

November 2023

April 1-5 Spring Holidays

April 24 Interims Issued

May 22 High School Exams 1/2 Day (All Students)

May 23 High School Exams 1/2 Day (All Students)

May 23 Last Day of Student Attendance

May 23 Report Cards Issued

May 24 School Workday

Graduations:

May 22 Sumter Career and Technology Center Graduation (4:30 PM)

May 22 Adult Education Graduation (7 PM)

May 23 Sumter High Graduation (6 PM)

March 2024

April 2024

May 2024

December 2023

May 24 Crestwood High Graduation (9 AM)

May 24 Lakewood High Graduation (1 PM)

WORKDAY/PROFESSIONAL LEARNING (NO STUDENT ATTENDANCE) HOLIDAYS PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

1/2 DAY STUDENT ATTENDANCE DISMISSAL: 11 AM ELEMENTARY, 11:30 AM MIDDLE, 12:30 PM HIGH STUDENTS RETURN

June 2024

attend a festival

We’ve got a festival for every season!

Things to do in Sumter, SC!

visit a state park

Hiking, camping, fishing, biking, Kayaking, and more! outdoor markets

Featuring local produce, arts & crafts and food vendors! museum crawl

Discover Sumter’s vibrant history and more!

sporting events

Food from around the world, right in your backyard.

explore the water

Kayaking, boating, fishing & watersports await!

Football, baseball, tennis and golf, to name a few! grab some grub take in the arts

Sumter has several galleries to explore!

There’s more to discover at LoveSumter.com

shopping

Local boutiques and national chains offer up plenty of retail opportunities!

enjoy our parks

parks offer lots of outdoor fun!