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Sumter Educators

OFrom the Superintendent Welcome

n behalf of the Sumter School District Board of Trustees and our entire Sumter School District family, welcome to the 2026–2027 school year. It is an honor to serve as your superintendent, and I look forward to building on our momentum as we continue raising the bar for teaching, learning and service across our district while creating even greater opportunities for every student.

This year, we move forward with a clear focus and a shared commitment: One Standard. Excellence. It represents the expectation we set for ourselves every day in every classroom, every school, every department and every interaction. By holding ourselves to the highest standards, embracing continuous improvement and working together, we create the conditions for every student to thrive.

I also extend my sincere gratitude to the families who have chosen Sumter School District to educate their children. Thank you for the trust you place in us each day. Educating and supporting more than 12,800 students is a responsibility we take seriously, and we remain committed to providing every child with a high-quality educational experience that prepares them for success in school, career and life.

This Welcome Guide highlights the many opportunities available throughout Sumter School District and serves as a valuable resource for families as we begin another year of learning and growth. Across our schools, students have access to innovative academic programs, cutting-edge technology, rigorous coursework, fine arts, athletics, career and technical education opportunities and a variety of pathways designed to help them discover their passions and reach their full potential. These opportunities include Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, International Baccalaureate, gifted and talented programs and a wide range of extracurricular

activities that support the interests and aspirations of every learner.

Our commitment to high standards extends beyond academics. We are dedicated to creating safe, supportive and engaging learning environments where every student feels valued, challenged and inspired to achieve their very best. Through strong partnerships with parents, families, businesses, military partners and community organizations, we continue to build a school system that reflects the strengths and aspirations of the Sumter community.

As we begin this new school year, I encourage each of us to embrace the opportunities before us and work together to ensure every student succeeds. When we hold ourselves to a standard of excellence, support one another and remain focused on what is best for students, we strengthen our schools, inspire excellence in others and create extraordinary opportunities for every learner. Together, we continue building a school district where every student can learn, grow, and succeed.

Thank you for your continued support of Sumter School District. I am confident that, by working together, we will make the 2026–2027 school year one of achievement, growth and success. As we raise the bar, pursue One Standard. Excellence. And remain united in our commitment to students, we know that #TogetherWeWin.

Dr. Gerald Gary Superintendent, Sumter School District

Welcome From The Sumter Item

On behalf of The Sumter Item staff, I’d like to welcome you to the 2026-27 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. Gerald Gary

Superintendent

Chauntae Scott

Administrative Manager to Superintendent and Board of Trustees

Kelly Brown

Deputy Superintendent

Dr. Jerry Oates

Chief Human Resources Officer

Nicholas Pearson Chief Operations Officer

Mark Sims

Chief of Schools

Shatika Spearman Chief Finance Officer

Lesley Corner

Executive Director of School Improvement, Accountability and Testing

Veronne Davis

Executive Director of Student Support Services (803) 774-5500

Dr. Joe Eberlin Jr.

Executive Director of Academics

Shelly Galloway

Executive Director of Communication and Community Engagement

Arpad Jonas Executive Director of Information Systems and Technology

Maintenance/Warehouse

Chris Catoe, Director of Maintenance 1345 Wilson Hall Road, Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 469-6900

Food Services

Stacey Francis, Director of Food Services 5400 Cane Savannah Road, Wedgefield, SC 29168 (803) 499-5950

Transportation Services

Marlon Dantzler, Director of Transportation 4355 Peach Orchard Road, Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 499-3422

Stephanie Smith, Area One

Hillcrest Transportation Office Crestwood High Feeder Schools 4355 Peach Orchard Road, Dalzell, SC 29040 (803) 499.3422

Joshua Johnson, Area Two

Sumter High Transportation Office

Sumter High Feeder Schools 2580 McCray’s Mill Road, Sumter, SC 29154 (803) 481-4423

Brian Jones, Area Three

Furman Transportation Office Lakewood High Feeder Schools 3400 Bethel Church Road, Sumter, SC 29154 (803) 481-3168 or 481-3169

Attendance Attendance

Attendance Information

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 five days upon the return of the student. Failure to provide notes within a five-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 five 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.

What is an EXCUSED absence?

- Student illness

- Medical appointments

- Court appearances

- Death of immediate family

- Religious holidays or ceremonies

- Military approved absence for deployment of a parent

What is an UNEXCUSED absence?

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

Attendance 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.

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 three 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 Joyce Perkins, coordinator of attendance services at (803) 469-6900, extension 507.

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.

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.

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 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 # 570963633). 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 wellbeing 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.

School Safety

The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain the highest priorities in Sumter School District. Creating and maintaining safe learning environments requires ongoing preparation, training, and partnership among schools, families and community agencies. We encourage parents and guardians to work alongside us in supporting a culture of safety, respect, and responsibility.

Our emergency procedures are developed in accordance with state and federal best practices and in collaboration with local law enforcement, emergency management officials and public safety agencies. These partners assist in the annual review of our safety plans, evaluate emergency drills and provide training to staff when needed. This collaborative approach helps ensure our procedures remain effective and responsive to evolving safety needs.

Each school maintains comprehensive emergency response guidelines that address a variety of situations, including lockdowns, evacuations, severe weather and other emergencies. Regular drills are conducted throughout the school year, and staff members participate in ongoing safety training to strengthen preparedness and response efforts.

To further enhance security, every school is equipped with a weapons detection system and is staffed by either a School Resource Officer (SRO) or safety officer. The district also maintains Disturbance Intervention Response Teams and Mental Health Support Teams that are trained to provide immediate assistance when needed.

In addition to physical safety measures, Sumter School District is committed to fostering positive school climates through an updated student Code of Conduct. The revised guidelines emphasize respect, empathy, accountability, and responsible decision-making while supporting the academic, social and emotional growth of all students. Families are encouraged to review the full Code of Conduct on the district website and discuss its expectations with their children.

By working together, we can ensure that every school remains a safe, supportive and focused environment where students are empowered to learn, grow and succeed.

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

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

Founded in 2008 by Gus and Jimmy Herlong, Palmetto Garage Works started with 5 locations in Columbia and a simple belief: take care of people. Today, that family‑owned mindset powers 39 locations across South Carolina, North Florida, Washington, D.C., and surrounding DC Communities. While the focus remains on honest, dependable Total Car Care, PGW is just as committed to Total Community Care—partnering with local organizations and reinvesting in the communities that place their trust in them.

Operated by

PGW proudly continues to give back and invest in communities through local partnerships, including

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

Christine Carnes, Principal 1420 Furman Drive

Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 494-8200 Fax: 494-8233 http://ces.sumterschools.net

Crosswell Drive Elementary School

Principal to be determined 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

Jennifer Geddings, Principal2060

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

Dana Mitchell, 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

Troy Cato, Principal

4355 Peach Orchard Road

Dalzell, SC 29040

Phone: 499-3341 Fax: 499-3353

http://hms.sumterschools.net

Crestwood High School

Tarsha Staggers, Principal 2000 Oswego Road

Sumter, SC 29153

Phone: 469-6200 Fax: 469-7678

http://chs.sumterschools.net

Lakewood High School

Lori Grant, 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. Maggie Wright, Principal 2612 McCrays Mill Road Sumter, SC 29154

Phone: 481-8575 Fax: 481-4232

http://sctc.sumterschools.net

Sumter School District

Dr. Gerald Gary, 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

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 among 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

• Valedictorian

• Salutatorian

• Honors Graduates

• Military Scholars

• National Honor Society

• National Technical Honor Society

• Family, Career and Community Leaders of America

• Military Connected Families

• Junior Civitans

• AVID Scholars

• FCCLA Scholars

• FBLA Scholars

• Student Government Scholars (SGA)

• Teaching Fellows

• National Teacher Cadet Honor Society

• CTE Completers

• JROTC

• Career Ready

• College Ready

• Distributive Education Clubs of America DECA

• IB Diploma Candidates or Certificate Candidates

• Key Club Scholars

• Fine Arts Scholars

• Unified Sports Scholars

• Early College

• Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment

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.com

Matthew “Mac” McLeod District 6 2985 Bruce Circle Sumter, SC 29154 (803) 938-2701

mac.mcleod@sumterschools.net

About the Board

Brian Alston Vice Chairman District 1

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

brian.alston@sumterschools.net

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

Dr. Gloria Rose Lee Clerk District 7

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

gloria.lee@sumterschools.net

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

bonnie.disney@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 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

Deborah MacQueen, 20th FW School Liaison Program Manager Shaw AFB, South Carolina Office: (803) 895-3398 deborah.macqueen@us.af.mil

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

Ralph.canty@sumterschools.net

Chauntae Scott Administrative Manager to the Superintendent and Board 1345 Wilson Hall Road Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 469-6900

Tarah Cousar-Johnson District 4 4770 Narrow Paved Road Lynchburg, SC 29080 (843) 412-4811

tarah.cousarjohnson@sumterschools.net

Dr. Gerald Gary Superintendent 1345 Wilson Hall Road Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 469-6900, ext. 100

Additionally, the board’s goals are as follows:

• To communicate the educational expectations and aspirations of the community through the formulation of policies which 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

• To demonstrate fiscal responsibility and align district resources with raising student achievement

The Board of Trustees meets publicly on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the district office unless otherwise announced. Executive session will begin at 6 p.m. Special meetings and committee meetings are scheduled as needed.

Food & Nutriti n Services Food & Nutriti n Services

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, wholegrain rich grain, fruit, 100% fruit juice and a choice of low-fat 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.

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.

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 and Talented program. Through our expansive 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; programs and events sponsored by Sumter Economic Development, Greater 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 highquality education which will serve as a foundation for their future success.

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

• Military Purple Star School District

• 2026 Palmetto’s Finest Elementary Finalist, most prestigious recognition for a school in S.C.

• International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, Dual Credit and Talented and 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

• $20.2 million awarded in merit-based scholarships

• 221 College and Career Ready medallions; 87 College Ready cords; and 442 Career Ready cords

• 574 industry credentials earned by CTE students

• 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

• Five schools to exit ATSI 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

• 45 National Board Certified Teachers and 557 employees with masters or doctorate Ddegrees

• Projected 90% employee retention rate

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

• SC Regional Librarian of the Year

• 16 Junior Scholars

• SC Dick and Tunky Riley Award Finalist

• FBLA state and national champions

• 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

• ROTC state championship winners

• Initiatives with the International Space Station

• National and State Conference presenters

• Sumter’s Best of Sumter 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

• Numerous grant recipients

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

• Superior and Excellent Concert Festival ratings

• SCMEA Gold Performance awards

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

• National, state and regional athletic Champions

• Region and State Coaches of the Year

• 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 Ppgrams in middle and high schools and Sumter Career and Technology Center

• Comprehensive guidance

• Alternative programs for at-risk youth

Teachers of the Year Teachers of the Year

Charlene McKnight

Sumter Academy for Support and Intervention

McKnight has over 16 years in education and was also recognized as the academy's Teacher of the Year in 2024. It is her first time, though, as a top three finalist for District Teacher of the Year.

She helps students to see their potential as opposed to other teachers who might not be able to see it in a traditional school environment.

McKnight said it is "even more joyful" when she can personally witness a shift in them.

Irena Zeef

High Hills Elementary School

She has the most experience of the top three finalists - also known as the district's Honor Roll Teachers - with 19 years in education.

A native of Slovenia in central Europe, Zeef initially taught there before moving to South Carolina to marry her husband, she said. She is in her sixth year at High Hills, and this is her first time as a Campus Teacher of the Year.

Zeef loves the "aha" moments when her students realize they can achieve and grow personally.

Lauren Hansen

Alice Drive Elementary School

Hansen teaches engineering concepts involved in STEM to all grades. In her 10th year as a teacher in Sumter School District, this is Hansen's fifth year at Alice Drive.

She is the school's first certified teacher in its STEM lab, she said, and Alice Drive has been a nationally certified STEM school through Cognia for many years. Hansen was previously a Campus Teacher of the Year at High Hills Elementary in 2020 as a fourth-grade math and science teacher. This is her first time as a top three finalist.