Sumter School District Welcome Guide 2025-2026 by The Sumter Item

SUMTER SCHOOL DISTRICT

Welcome 2025-26

Guide

Sumter Educators

What's Inside

OFrom the Superintendent Welcome

n behalf of the Sumter School District Board of Trustees and our entire SSD family, welcome to a new school year filled with promise, potential and purpose. We are excited to partner with The Sumter Item to share this Welcome Guide, designed to provide families, staff and community members with valuable insights into the exceptional educational opportunities that define our district.

This year, we proudly launch our theme: One District. One Purpose. #UnitedForStudents.

It’s a call to action that reminds us we are stronger together. United in purpose, united in passion and united in our pursuit of excellence. Whether in the classroom, on the field or behind the scenes, we are all dedicated to ensuring every student receives an extraordinary educational experience.

As we strive for academic excellence, our schools embrace 21st-century learning that prepares students for the world of today and tomorrow. Through engaging STEM initiatives, digital libraries and cutting-edge technology, our classrooms are vibrant spaces where innovation thrives. Students also explore the world through offerings in world languages, fine arts, Career and Technical Education, Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, International Baccalaureate and Gifted and Talented programs.

Beyond STEM, Sumter School District is proud to offer nationally recognized and

transformative programs such as AVID, Leader in Me, Arts in Basic Curriculum, Points of Light, Project Lead the Way and Ben Carson Reading Rooms. Our robust Career and Technology Education courses and programs at Sumter Career and Technology Center empower students with skills that lead to college and career success. We also celebrate student talents and passions through our award-winning athletics, performing arts and a wide variety of extracurricular clubs and organizations.

At the heart of all we do is a commitment to strong partnerships with parents, families and community stakeholders. Together, we create the safe, nurturing and supportive environments our students need to thrive.

Let’s make 2025-2026 a year of excellence, opportunity, and growth as we continue to embody the spirit of Sumter School District APPEAL—Advancing Potential and Pursuing Excellence for All Learners.

Dr. William T. Wright, Jr. Superintendent, Sumter School District

Welcome From The Sumter Item

On behalf of The Sumter Item staff, I’d like to welcome you to the 2025-26 Sumter School District Welcome Guide. As the Sumter region’s leader in media for more than 130 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 series such as Sumter Today. Posted throughout the week at Facebook.com/theitem and on Instagram @sumteritem, the all-positive news show highlights some of the great things happening throughout our community, including much of the activities inside our schools. Follow our twice-monthly series Sumter's Next Generation to get a more in-depth look at some of the exceptional students in our community who are our future leaders.

Our popular local sports coverage is also on display inside our newspaper, as well as on our website, in video coverage and throughout multiple social media platforms. Follow The Item Sports for exciting coverage of our local teams throughout this school year, including our twice-monthly series The Grind.

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. Jerry Oates, Chief Human Resources Officer Ext. 208

Jerry.oates@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. 533

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

Maintenance/Warehouse

Chris Catoe, Director of Maintenance 1345 Wilson Hall Road Sumter, SC 29150 Phone: (803)469.6900, ext. 602

Christopher.catoe@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

Marlon Dantzler, Director of Transportation 4355 Peach Orchard Road, Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 499.3422

Marlon.dantzler@sumterschools.net

Leonard Brailsford, Area One

Hillcrest Transportation Office (Crestwood High Feeder Schools) 4355 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 McCray’s Mill Road,Sumter, SC 29154

803.481.4023 or 803.481.4061 or 803.481.4062 or 803.481.4063

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

Attendance Attendance

Need to Know

State law requires students in kindergarten through 12th grade to attend school a minimum of 170 of the 180-day school year to receive credit for the academic year.

• A note from a parent/guardian or certified medical practitioner must be submitted to the school immediately or within 5 days upon the return of the student. Failure to provide notes within 5 day time frame may result in an absence being considered as unverified.

• A maximum of 10 parent notes will be accepted during the school year. Only 5 parent notes will be accepted for semester courses at the high school level.

• High school attendance requirements are set by the state for each course. The maximum number of absences for each course type include:

Yearlong course - Limited to 10 absences

Semester course - Limited to 5 absences

Quarter course - Limited to 3 absences

• Exceeding the absences limitations may result in non-promotion or noncredit in each course or grade.

A student between the ages of 6 to 17 is truant after three consecutive or five cumulative unexcused absences.

- Student illness

- Medical appointments

- Court appearances

- Death of immediate family

- Religious holidays or ceremonies

- Military approved absence for deployment of a parent

VSAn absence that does not meet the conditions listed for a excused absence.

Procedures

• Parent/guardian will be notified of an accumulation of absences.

• An Attendance Intervention Plan will be completed when a student is identified as truant.

• Continued absences may result in a report to DSS for Educational Neglect and a Petition to Family Court.

- Parent may be fined up to $50 a day and/or jailed up to 30 days for each unexcused absence.

- Student between the ages of 12-17 can be held responsible for their attendance and sent to DJJ up to 90 days.

Attendance is important on the first and all days of school

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.

State law requires students in kindergarten through 12th grade to attend school a minimum of 170 of the 180-day school year to receive credit for the academic 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.

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.

New Student 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.

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

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 halfunit 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 Joyce Perkins, coordinator of attendance services at (803) 4696900, extension 507.

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.

Key Services Offered by Human Resources

The Human Resources Department of Sumter School District is committed to attracting, developing and retaining a diverse and highly qualified workforce. We provide comprehensive support to employees at every stage of their careers, fostering a safe, inclusive and collaborative work environment. Our goal is to empower staff through responsive HR services that promote professional growth, well-being and operational excellence.

Employment & Staffing Support

• Recruitment and onboarding of new hires

• Processing employee transfers and resignations

• Ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity compliance

• Substitute staffing coordination

• CERRA exit surveys

Employee Certification & Professional Development

• Guidance on checking certification status and renewal processes

• Support for alternative certification pathways and Project CREATE

• Assistance for Highly Qualified Paraprofessionals

• Tracking and documenting professional development through Annual Growth Logs

• Technology proficiency validation

Evaluation & Performance Management

• Educator evaluation resources and tools

• Student Learning Objectives (SLO) guidance and support

Benefits & Insurance

• Support with health, dental, life insurance and related benefits

• Assistance with ordering replacement insurance cards

• Guidance on enrollment and plan changes

Retirement Planning

• Information and support for the South Carolina Retirement System

• Retirement options and preparation resources

Employee Leave & Wellness

• Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) assistance and documentation

• Leave request processing and sick leave transfers

• Worker’s compensation claims and compliance information

• Physical and emotional wellness resources

Loan Forgiveness Documentation Assistance

• Assistance with completing forms for federal and state loan forgiveness programs

Sumter Education Foundation Sumter Education Foundation

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 taxexempt 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.

About Sumter School District

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.

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 abiding sense of honor and integrity that is characterized by high 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.

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.

Graduation Honors Graduation Honors

• Valedictorian

• Salutatorian

• Honors Graduates

• Military

• National Honor Society

• National Technical Honor Society

• Family, Career and Community Leaders of America

• Military Connected Families

• Junior Civitan

• AVID Scholars

• FCCLA

• FBLA Scholars

• Student Government Scholars (SGA)

• Teacher Cadet

• National Teacher Cadet Honor Society

• CTE Completer

• JROTC

• Career Ready

• College Ready

• College or Career Ready

• Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA)

• IB Diploma Candidate or Certificate Candidate

• Key Club Scholars

• Inclusive Knights

• Fine Arts Scholars

• Unified Sports Scholars

Inclement Weather Procedures Inclement Weather Procedures School Safety

During periods of severe or unsafe weather, Sumter School District considers several options to ensure the safety of students and staff. These may include an eLearning day, closing schools entirely or delaying the start of school by one or two hours. When such decisions are necessary, announcements will be made to the public no later than 5 a.m. on the day in question. Notifications will be shared through the local radio and television stations. Updates will also be posted on the Sumter School District website, Facebook page and X page.

In addition, parents and guardians will receive a telephone alert and a notification through our mobile app via Finalsite. To ensure you receive these updates, please make sure your child’s school has your most current contact information on file.

Please note: Announcements will only be made if there is a delay, closure or change in schedule.

The safety of our students and staff is the highest priority in Sumter School District. While we recognize that no system can guarantee complete protection in today’s world, we are committed to ongoing education, preparation and collaboration to reinforce our safety protocols. We also rely on our parents and guardians to partner with us in supporting a culture of

Our joint emergency action guidelines are developed in alignment with state and federal best practices and in close partnership with local public safety agencies. Law enforcement plays an active role in the annual review of these guidelines, evaluates the execution of our emergency drills and provides training for school staff as needed. These reviews help us identify strengths and areas for improvement, leading to necessary updates and enhancements in

Each school’s emergency guidelines address a wide range of scenarios, including lockdowns, evacuations, natural disasters and effective communication during crises. Our safety protocols also include measures to control public access to school buildings. Regular safety drills are conducted, and staff members receive ongoing training throughout the year. Additionally, the district offers immediate crisis response training for our Disturbance Intervention Response Teams and Mental Health Support Teams. To further enhance safety, every school is equipped with a weapons detection system and has either a School Resource Officer (SRO) or safety officer on

As part of our continuous improvement efforts, we have also implemented an updated Code of Conduct. This revised code is designed to create a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. It emphasizes respect, empathy and responsible behavior and supports the academic, social and emotional growth of every learner. The full Code of Conduct is available on our website at

At Sumter School District, the safety and well-being of our students and staff will always remain our top priority. By working together, we can ensure our schools remain safe, focused environments where every student has the opportunity to succeed.

School Directory School Directory

Alice Drive Elementary School

Eric Masaitis, Principal

251 Alice Drive

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 775-0857 Fax: 775-7580 http://ade.sumterschools.net

Cherryvale Elementary School

Debra Healey, 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

Kathy Lyons, 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

Josh Campbell, Principal 24 Pinewood Road

Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 775-0648 Fax: 436-2987

http://mwe.sumterschools.net

Oakland Primary School

Jessica Wright, 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

Jennifer Barrett, Principal 1495 Frierson Road

Shaw AFB, SC 29152

Phone: 666-2335 Fax: 666-3719

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

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

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

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 St. Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 774-5500

Sumter Adult Education

Dr. Vanessa Canty, Director 905 N. Main St. Sumter, SC 29150

Phone: 778-6432 Fax: 775-4665

Board of Trustees Board of Trustees

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

Shawnragin89@gmail.comt

Brian Alston Vice Chairman District 1

3385 North Kings Hwy. 261 Rembert, SC 29128 (803) 572-1938

brian.alston@sumterschools.net

Dr. Gloria Rose Lee Clerk District 7

Dr. Gloria R. Lee (803) 464-6414

Gloria.lee@sumterschools.net

Matthew “Mac” McLeod District 6 2985 Bruce Circle Sumter, SC 29154 (803) 938-2701/Cell mac.mcleod@sumterschools.net

About the Board

Phil Leventis Area 8 935 Andiron Drive Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 968-6185 phil.leventis@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 the board

Bonnie S. Disney Esq. District 9 Swan Lake Drive Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 983-0268

bonnie.disney@sumterschools.net

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.

Contact Information Contact Information

Brittany English District 2

6760 Spring Hill Road Rembert, SC 29128 (803) 968-8899 brittany.english@sumterschools.net

Ralph Canty, Sr. D. Min District 3 104 S. Salem Ave. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 983-1469

Ralph.canty@sumterschools.net

Tarah Cousar-Johnson District 4

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

tarah.cousarjohnson@sumterschools.net

Deborah MacQueen, 20th FW School Liaison Program Manager

Shaw AFB, South Carolina Office: (803) 895-3398

Deborah.macqueen@us.af.mil

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

Additionally, the board’s goals are as follows:

• 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.

PRESENTED BY

Presented by:

2025 eSTEAM Sumter Festival FREE FAMILY FUN

Lee & Sumter, SC

Career Readiness 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.

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

Employment:

Post-secondary: CAREER PREPARATION

Achieving credentials: college, certification, apprenticeships, military

CAREER PREPARATION

Academics and technical courses, intensive guidance, individual graduation plans

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

6-8: CAREER EXPLORATION

K-5: CAREER AWARENESS

Introduction to the world of careers

Points of Pride Points of Pride

• 13,000 students served by 14 elementary schools, six middle schools, three high schools, one K-8 school, one alternative school, Career and Technology Center, Adult Ed

• Accredited by Cognia and 2025 Cognia Innovation and Impact Award Recipient

• Military Purple Star School District

• 2025 Palmetto’s Finest Elementary Finalist, most prestigious recognition for a school in SC

• International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, Dual Credit and Talented & Gifted courses

• Cognia Accredited STEM schools, AVID schools, Leader in Me schools, Arts in Basic Curriculum schools, Project Lead the Way schools, SREB schools and Ben Carson Reading Rooms

• $38 million awarded in merit-based scholarships and one 2024 National Merit Scholar

• Harmon Scholarship winners

• Five prestigious awards at South Carolina Adult Education Fall Institute

• Pilgrims Mobile STEM Explorer, Cyber Security Bus and Starlab Planetarium

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

• 211 perfect scores on the EOC and SCREADY

• 20 Seals of Biliteracy: 1 Gold, 12 Silver, 6 Bronze

• Three schools to Exit CSI status

• Collaboration With Sumter Economic Development on workforce readiness programs

• Job shadowing, cooperative work experiences, career fairs and industry partnerships

• 9,968 student-reported WBL experiences

• OSHA 10 Training – 141 CTE completers

earned credentials

• Identified as a Low Risk Federal Programs School District by the SCDE

• 53 National Board Certified teachers and 586 employees with master's or doctorate degrees

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

• Chamber of Commerce Elementary, Middle and High Educators of the Year

• Air and Space Forces Association (AFA) Swamp Fox Chapter and State Teacher of the Year

• WLTX Teacher of the Year

• SC Association for Middle Level Education “Teacher to Watch”

• SC Regional Librarians of the Year

• South Carolina Association for Career and Technical Education Teacher of the Year

• South Carolina School Social Worker of the Year

• 2025 South Carolina Association for Middle Level Education Regional Teacher to Watch

• 2024 and 2025 National Blue Ribbon Beacon schools

• 2024 Gene Bottoms Pacesetter Award for Excellence in Career and Technical Education

• SkillsUSA Winners

• American Culinary Federation (ACF) Accreditation

• Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Accreditation

• 2024 School of the Year (SSBHC) Southeastern School Behavioral Health Community

• Special Olympics – Unified Champion Schools

• SC Dick and Tunky Riley Award (state winner) 2024-25

• ROTC state championship winners

• FBLA state and national champions

• Initiatives with the International Space Station

• School Improvement Council Riley Award winner and finalists

• National and state conference presenters

• Best of Sumter award recipients

• Metal detectors and SROs or security guards at every school

• 90+ exceptional business, community, military and faith-based partners

• 25+ community outreach initiatives

• Nine mental health partnerships

• InnerView Community Service Impact awards

• Fall and spring Exact Path Trophy Challenge winners

• Reading Rumble winners

• Mayor’s Christmas Card winners

• Sound financial management

• 2025 upgraded financial bond rating

• Numerous years of clean audits

• Three consecutive yearly employee retention bonuses

• Numerous grant recipients

• Gamecock GRAFX Print Industry of the Carolinas (PICA) awards

• SDE-approved eLearning District

• One-to-Global Technology Initiative

• Universal Free Breakfast and Lunch

• Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) program

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

• CTE programs in middle and high schools and Sumter Career and Technology Center

• Comprehensive guidance

• Alternative programs for at-risk youth

• AVID Schoolwide Site of Distinction

• SC Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities Band and Orchestra Summer Program recipient

• SCMEA Outstanding Performance awards

• All-State and All-Region orchestras, bands and choirs

• Superior and Excellent Concert Festival ratings

• Superior ratings at the Palmetto Dramatics Association State One-Act Play Festival

• State and regional athletic champions

• Region and State Coaches of the Year

Food

All schools in Sumter School District offer well-balanced and nutritious meals in compliance with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines. A standard breakfast meal includes a meat/meat alternate, whole-grain rich grain, fruit, 100% fruit juice and a choice of lowfat milk. A standard lunch meal includes a meat/ meat alternate, whole-grain rich grain, vegetable, fruit and low-fat milk. All grade levels have an option of purchasing a la carte items.

Sumter School District participates in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program. All breakfast and lunch meals are free of charge to students. Meal applications are not required.

2024-2025

District Overview District Overview

#UnitedforStudents

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 which 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 Multi-Tiered

System of Support (MTSS) uses data-based 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 & Talented program. Through our expansive Career and 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; programs and events sponsored by Sumter Economic Development, Sumter 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 that will serve as a foundation for their future success.

Teachers of the Year Teachers of the Year

Kia Smith Sumter Career and Technology Center

A product of the local district and 2008 Sumter High School graduate, Smith is the district's only culinary arts teacher and is in her 10th year at the Career and Technology Center on McCrays Mill Road. Under her leadership, the two-year program for juniors and seniors in the district recently earned official accreditation from the American Culinary Federation. That is one of the highest honors in culinary education.

Christina Talbert Wilder Elementary School

Talbert cited her own fourth-grade teacher as her inspiration because she created an exciting and engaging environment for coming to school and learning, "and I always said I wanted to grow up to become just like her."

She added she loved math as a child and strives to help students enjoy math by making it fun because so many kids today struggle in the subject area and want to avoid it.

Shelly Stokes Alice Drive Elementary

An elementary school teacher her entire career, Stokes said her favorite part of teaching is building relationships with her students and their families and helping them achieve their goals "by igniting a passion for reading and math and how to be caring young people with good, positive character traits."