Aiken Board of Education Approves $285 Million for School Upgrades

News Summary

The Aiken County Board of Education has unanimously voted to issue up to $285 million in bonds for school renovations and new projects, backed by a voter-approved sales tax. Significant upgrades are planned across several schools, with North Aiken Elementary celebrated for its academic achievements. Additionally, a new cellphone policy aims to enhance focus in the classroom, marking a pivotal moment in the future of educational standards in Aiken County.

Aiken Board of Education Takes Big Steps for Schools and Honors Outstanding Educator

In a momentous decision that promises to transform education in the region, the Aiken County Board of Education recently voted unanimously to issue up to $285 million in general obligation bonds. This decision comes as part of their long-term plan to fund essential school renovations and construction projects, thanks to a voter-approved 1-cent sales tax initiative that appeared on the ballot last November.

Funds for a Bright Future

With approximately 70% of voters showing their support for this initiative, the board can now start construction on various projects right away, which is quite exciting! Instead of waiting for sales tax revenues to build up, the board is able to jump right into bringing fresh improvements to the schools.

Among the schools set to benefit, South Aiken High School stands out with plans for significant upgrades including a sparkling new entryway and a vital security vestibule. Also on the list for renovations are Midland Valley High School, Silver Bluff High School, and North Augusta Middle School. Excitingly, plans are even in motion for a brand-new elementary school in Midland Valley!

Even more upgrades are on the horizon, as the board has approved an additional contract for the installation of artificial turf at Ridge Spring-Monetta High School. This upgrade will replace the existing grass field with a modern turf surface, bringing the total cost of this project to $1,753,174. The funds for this turf improvement will be sourced from previous voter-approved 1% sales tax levies.

Celebrating Excellence in Education

Elisa Sanders-Pee, the principal of North Aiken Elementary School, as the Elementary School Principal of the Year by the South Carolina Alliance of Black School Educators. Under her inspiring leadership, the school achieved a full proficiency band on the 2023 state report card, a remarkable feat that highlights her commitment to excellence.

To elevate educational experiences, North Aiken Elementary has utilized innovative intervention processes and arranged schedules for clubs and hands-on activities, ensuring that students not only learn but also engage meaningfully.

New Cellphone Policy: Aiming for Focus

cellphone policy. Mandated by the state, this policy is designed to reduce distractions from personal devices in schools. The Board of Education approved this policy in their recent meeting, which requires middle and high school students to keep their personal devices turned off and out of sight during the school day—including lunch breaks!

Students will also need to leave their wearable technology that connects to phones at home. The new policy will kick in after the winter break in January, aiming to create a distraction-free environment that focuses on educational growth.

Looking Ahead

With such exciting developments happening in Aiken, it’s clear that the community is committed to providing an enriching learning atmosphere for students. From expansive renovation projects to the recognition of outstanding educators, the future looks bright for the students of Aiken County.

This is just the beginning of a more modern educational journey as Aiken continues to invest in its schools and, most importantly, its students!

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Additional Resources

• WJBF: Aiken County Public School on 2-Hour Delay
• Wikipedia: Education in the United States
• WFXG: Aiken County Schools to Enforce New Cell Phone Policy
• Google Search: South Carolina education policy
• WRDW: Aiken County School Board Holds 1st Reading of New Phone Policy
• Google Scholar: Aiken County education
• Aiken Standard: Aiken School Board Bonds
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
• WRDW: Essential Skills Necessary for SC School Cellphone Policy
• Google News: Aiken County education updates

Author: HERE Aiken