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OUR THEMEWorld-Class Champions . . . every child, every chance, every day!OUR GOALS● Provide world-class safety and a positive school culture.● Provide world-class, high-quality instruction to increase studentachievement.● Provide world-class communication and family engagement.January 17, 2023Greetings Laurens County School District 55 (LCSD 55) Community,I hope everyone had a wonderful long weekend.Here we are in the middle of January. Schools are already in full swingfor the second semester. We are confident that students will receivethe support they need to be well-prepared. However, we also knowthat both students and teachers must make the most of every momentin the coming days. We are excited and work hard to continuestrengthening and building our programs and practices. We mustcontinue strong so that we can finish strong.Student attendance is very important. Please ensure that yourstudents arrive at school on time each day, well-rested, and preparedto have a great day!Have a great week and an incredible year ahead! Remember, We gotthis!

MLK HOLIDAYDr. Martin Luther King (MLK) Jr. was a civil rights leader in theUnited States. He fought for racial equality and against racialsegregation. His work is remembered and celebrated each year onthe third Monday in January. LCSD 55 was closed on January 16,2023, in honor of the MLK Jr. Holiday. Enjoy Read Along Time withDr. Thomas as she reads This is the Dream.DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. ESSAY WRITING CONTESTThe City of Laurens partnered with the Sanders Alumni Association and Laurens County SchoolDistrict 55 to sponsor an essay writing contest on the theme, “Together We Can be THE Dream.”Monetary prizes were given to the winners. The first-place prize was $100.00, the second-placeprize was $75.00, and third-place prize was $50.00. All participants received a certificate.Finalists were invited to read their essays on Friday, January 13, 2023, at Sanders MiddleSchool, and were invited to attend the MLK Jr. Day Commemoration Program and Luncheon onJanuary 14, 2023, at the Ballroom Weddings and Events for the announcement of winners. Belowis the list of finalists and winners.Laurens District 55 High SchoolJaylan Jones, 9th GradeHigh School Division First Place WinnerLaurens Middle SchoolAdriana Moore, 6th Grade, FinalistLesly Rivas Bonilla, 7th GradeMiddle School Division Second Place WinnerTauri Carden-Brown, 8th GradeMiddle School Division Third Place WinnerFord Elementary SchoolMason Miller, 5th Grade, FinalistLaurens Elementary SchoolRen McCracken, 3rd Grade, FinalistKirby Martin, 5th Grade, FinalistGray Court-Owings SchoolTimera Young, 5th Grade, FinalistEllie Lewis, 8th GradeMiddle School Division First Place WinnerWaterloo Elementary SchoolDaniel Patton-Brown, 5th Grade, FinalistChloe May, 3rd GradeElementary School Division Third Place WinnerHickory Tavern SchoolClaire McCurry, 8th Grade, FinalistAlexandrea Marian, 7th Grade, FinalistCourtney Gantt, 5th Grade, FinalistE.B. Morse Elementary SchoolTrinity Dukes, 5th Grade, FinalistBryson Futrell, 5th GradeElementary School Division First Place WinnerMila Ross, 4th GradeElementary School Division Second Place WinnerSanders Middle SchoolNicole Powers,8th Grade, FinalistMalik McCurry, 7th Grade, FinalistKayleigh Wilson, 6th Grade, Finalist

BOARD OF TRUSTEESWatch the LCSD 55 Board Work Session and Board Meeting held on November 28, 2022, usingthe links provided. The next LCSD 55 Board of Trustees regular monthly meeting will be onMonday, January 23, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in the large training room of the district administrativeoffice. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. for the meeting. Individuals who desire to speak during PublicParticipation in the regular monthly meeting must complete the Request to Speak During PublicParticipation form and submit the form to the Office of the Superintendent no later than 12:00noon on the day of the meeting. The form is also available at the reception desk of the districtadministrative office.SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION MONTHLaurens County School District 55 (LCSD 55) continues to celebrate January 2023 as SouthCarolina School Board Recognition Month. The theme of the celebration is Forward, Together.As the elected/appointed representatives of the people, they represent their local communities’voice and vision for their public schools. In this issue, two more LCSD 55 School Board membersare featured.MR. WILLIAM “NEAL” PATTERSON, SEAT 3Mr. William “Neal” Patterson takes his work as a school board member toheart. To him, his work is very personal because his three children are ofschool age. He wants to positively influence the district with the perspectiveof a parent. His goal is to move our district to have the best learningenvironment and curricula so that our students will have the chance tosucceed.Mr. Patterson believes that LCSD 55 is moving in the right directionbecause we have the right leadership in place. He feels a sense ofaccomplishment with the re-opening of in-school learning as safely and asquickly as possible after the COVID-19 Pandemic.Mr. Patterson feels good about being part of something that impacts society. He plans to continueto work collaboratively with others so that more good things will happen in LCSD 55. Recentconversations include expansion and building considerations that will provide students the safestlearning environment.MR. ANTHONY CARPENTER, SEAT 5Mr. Anthony Carpenter has been serving as a school board member since1999. Mr. Carpenter is a concerned community member and advocates forall students in Laurens County School District 55 to receive a high-qualityeducation. When Mr. Carpenter first sought a seat on the school board, hespecifically had in mind the goal to help address parents’ attendanceconcerns caused by delayed transportation. Mr. Carpenter is happy thatthose concerns were resolved during his initial term.In Mr. Carpenter’s humble opinion, he has been a good custodian of publicfunds. Through collaborative work with other school board members, he has helped with theefficient utilization of public funds in education.Mr. Carpenter will continue to work collaboratively with other school board members. He iskeeping politics aside and plans to always prioritize students' needs.

MATH DREAMBOX CHALLENGE WINNERSThe last Math DreamBox Challenge ran from November 1-December 9, 2022. LCSD 55celebrated winners for their persistence and hard work.The classes with the most usage won a pizza party on December 19, 2022, while the classeswith the highest percent of students on track (most growth on predictive insights section ofDreamBox) were recognized at the January 10, 2023, Laurens District 55 High School girls’varsity basketball game half-time. The overall school winner is Waterloo Elementary School.Teachers with the most dashboard usage will receive gift cards. They are: Runners-up - DarrenFeist (Laurens Elementary School), Neilson Smith (Waterloo Elementary School), Lori Bratcher(E.B. Morse Elementary School), and overall winner Melissa Gault (Laurens Elementary School).The list of winners is below. Read the October 25, 2022, issue of this newsletter for informationon DreamBox Mathematics.Ford Elementary SchoolTocarra Thompson-Monroe, 4th GradeMost UsageHighest Percent of Students on TrackPamalar Irby, 2nd GradeHighest Percent of Students on TrackE.B. Morse Elementary SchoolSonya Padgett, 1st GradeMost UsageHighest Percent of Students on TrackMaria Orias, 5th GradeHighest Percent of Students on TrackLaurens Elementary SchoolMelissa Gult, 4th GradeMost UsageHighest Percent of Students on TrackHaley Steele, Primary MontessoriHighest Percent of Students on TrackGray Court-Owings SchoolKamisha Thomas, 1st GradeMost UsageHighest Percent of Students on TrackM. Jane Godfrey, 4th GradeHighest Percent of Students on TrackWaterloo Elementary SchoolAngela Abercrombie, 2nd GradeMost UsageHighest Percent of Students on TrackDianne Beair, 5th GradeHighest Percent of Students on TrackHickory Tavern SchoolBrittany Schaefer, 4th GradeMost UsageStephanie Harrison, 1st Grade andJacquelyn Burns, 3rd GradeHighest Percent of Students on Track

SUPERINTENDENT’S STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETINGLCSD 55 Superintendent Dr. Ameca C. Thomas hosted a meeting with the Superintendent'sStudent Advisory Council (SAC) on January 10, 2023. The SAC is a forum for directcommunication and recommendations between LCSD 55 students and the superintendent. TheSAC provides student voice, advice, and perspectives to the superintendent. The SAC givesinput on school system initiatives and ways to improve communication and overall schoolexperiences.During the meeting, students specifically gave feedbackand suggestions on the district’s safety goals, theireducational experiences, and the LCSD 55 2023-24Modified Calendar. Members of the student advisorycouncil unanimously applauded the safety measuresimplemented this year, including the placement of metaldetectors and the implementation of the Clear BagGuidelines. Students offered suggestions on how tomaximize the use of metal detectors. Students expressedfeeling safe at school. They understand that externalfactors are beyond the district’s control.Concerning their educational experiences, students look forward to engaging in classroomactivities. Students also shared that they feel safe asking for assistance. One student said thather teachers take time to ask what they still need help understanding. She appreciates that theyare given the support they need. Many students also appreciate their school administrators,physical education coaches, and art teachers. Students recommended hiring in-person educatorsfor Spanish and graphics classes.Students sought clarification on how the LCSD 552023-24 Modified Calendar will impact athleticschedules, what Academic Intercession days are, and ifthe modified school calendar will be adopted in futureacademic years. Dr. Thomas explained that the studentschool days will still be 180 days and the designatedAcademic Intercession days are opportunities forstudents to receive immediate academic services theymay need. LCSD 55 Assistant Superintendent for PupilServices Dr. Jody Penland explained that the athleticseasons and schedules will remain the same.Gray Court-Owings School student Ellie Lewis, looksforward to the next meeting. She said, “I am very happy to be chosen to be part of the SAC. Thisis a good experience for me. I hope that what I share is helpful. I have younger siblings. I wantthem to have better school experiences.”MIDLANDS STUDENT SUMMITClemson University’s College Preparation and Outreach Department is holding the MidlandsStudent Summit on February 4, 2022, at Lower Richland High School. The summit is open to all7th-12th grade students. Read the Midlands Student Summit flyer to register.

SUPERINTENDENT’S SUPPORT STAFF ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETINGLCSD 55 Superintendent Dr. Ameca C. Thomas hosted a meeting with the Superintendent'sSupport Staff Advisory Council (SSAC) on January 12, 2023. The SSAC is composed of the2022-2023 Support Staff of the Year from each of the LCSD 55 schools and departments. TheSSAC is a forum for direct communication and recommendations between LCSD 55 support staffand the superintendent. The SSAC provides support staff voice, advice, and perspectives to thesuperintendent. This forum gives input on school system initiatives and ways to improvecommunication and overall school experiences. During the meeting, support staff specificallyasked questions, and gave feedback and suggestions on the district’s safety goals, the morale intheir schools, and the LCSD 55 2023-24 Modified Calendar.Members of the support staff advisory council voiced that they feel safe at work. A member of theSSAC specifically expressed the need to share again with stakeholders the district’s safety planin the hope of addressing any misconceptions or misunderstandings on the use of metaldetectors at schools. Many members of the SSAC are nurses, who voiced the need to haveresources in stock to help with emergency health situations.The SSAC members agreed morale is better at their schools. One member explained that theweight on teachers and staff has been somewhat lifted now that the COVID-19 pandemic is nolonger at the forefront. School representatives were eager to share the different initiatives thatincrease school morale. Some shared about gift cards or monetary incentives for completeattendance and exceptional work. Others shared about recognition programs initiated bycolleagues.The SSAC openly shared their enthusiasm for the LCSD 55 2023-24 Modified Calendar. Theybelieve this will ensure that teachers and staff have the opportunities to re-energize throughoutthe year and it will prevent burn-out. The members sought clarification on the AcademicIntercession days in the modified calendar. Dr. Thomas explained that Academic Intercessiondays are designated days for some students to get personalized educational support. LCSD 55Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Services Dr. Jody Penland shared that teachers and staff whochoose to work on Academic Intercession days will be paid on top of their regular pay, just asthey would if they worked the summer program. Dr. Penland also shared that a shorter summerschool program will be offered this 2023.“I’m very excited to be part of this meeting. We can learn and we can improve our school districtand help keep our district safe,” said Waterloo Elementary School Support Staff of the YearSandra Acheson about her participation in SSAC.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN LCSD 55Among the focus in Laurens County School District 55 is providing quality professionaldevelopment to administrators and educators. Throughout the year, various sessions areoffered that target professional needs. Our administrators are excited about their professionalgrowth. “Professional learning is a career-long effort and responsibility. As leaders, we mustmodel the importance of and enthusiasm for professional learning by participating in,designing, facilitating and leading our school's professional development program,” said AngieBigham, E.B. Morse Elementary School Assistant Principal.” Here’s a peek at administratorsengaged in professional development.INDUCTION & MENTORING IN LCSD 55LCSD 55 offers induction teachers support by providing them with highly-qualified mentors.LCSD 55 has 63 active mentors. In this issue, we put the spotlight on Jaya Thumati, a SpecialEducation Teacher at Laurens District 55 High School.What made you decide to be a mentor?After I lost my sister to COVID-19, I decided to use my extra timeproductively by sharing my knowledge and experience in specialeducation through mentoring new teachers and being an optimistic rolemodel to guide them to grow professionally and become successfulclassroom teachers.What is your greatest joy as a mentor?My greatest joy as a mentor is learning new ideas that new teachersbring in which is mutually beneficial for both of us to grow professionallyby learning together and walking away with new and improvedstrategies, lessons, and ideas after successful collaboration that helpsus make a difference in students’ day to day education.

WATERFORD UPSTART FAMILY ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMIN LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 55The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) hasincluded Laurens County School District 55 (LCSD 55) in theWaterford Project. LCSD 55 will offer the Waterford UPSTARTFamily Engagement Program starting this semester. Theprogram empowers parents and caregivers of young learners asthe first teachers right in the home. The learning model usesresearch-based early learning software technology. Four-year-old Kindergarten (4K) students willbe provided with computer-adaptive instruction at home alongside personalized support fromWaterford’s Family Education Liaisons, who will monitor students' progress.This initiative will provide very young learners in LCSD 55 additional support to ensurekindergarten readiness. Each four-year-old student will receive a highly-personalized curriculumin math, science, and reading aligned with the South Carolina Early Learning Standards. Toachieve desired outcomes, students need to use the program 15-20 minutes a day, five days aweek.The cost of the program is roughly $2,000.00 per student but will be offered at no cost to the 4Kstudent’s family or LCSD 55. Each participating student will also receive a computer to use athome.Tom Adkins, a 4K parent at Waterloo Elementary School, said, “Anything on top of the 4Kprogram offered outside of school is something I greatly welcome.”Participation in the Waterford UPSTART Family Engagement Program does not requireclassroom time. LCSD 55 teachers will be the encouragers and cheerleaders for promoting theuse of this program in the homes of all 4K students.Teachers attended the Waterford UPSTART program overview virtual meeting on January 4,2023. Teachers will receive training on how to utilize the various reports that will be beneficialto offer support at school.Laurens Elementary School 4K teacher Heather Coggins said, “Any program that encouragesacademics in a fun way and includes the family as a whole is beneficial for all students.”“We know that early childhood experiences are so important and affect the development of thebrain’s architecture. This development provides the foundation for all future learning. We wantevery child to have the best foundation possible so that they can start kindergarten with theskills necessary to be confident individuals who are ready to learn,” stated Dr. Ameca Thomas,LCSD 55 Superintendent. “We are so excited to be able to offer this opportunity to our earlylearners to give every child, in every classroom, a strong start to be successful in school andlife. This is also a wonderful opportunity and support system for our parents.”Waterford UPSTART Family Orientation Information:Parents will need to attend a one-hour orientation to learn about Waterford Upstart. Thesession will go over the benefits and requirements of the program. Attendance atorientation is required. Families will not receive equipment or have access to the curriculumuntil they have attended an orientation session. Read the Family Orientation Dates Flyer for adetailed schedule at each school site.

PRESCHOOL REGISTRATIONLCSD 55 begins early registration for preschool from January24-26, 2023. Students currently enrolled in LCSD 55 classes for 3,4, and 5-year-olds do not need to register. Please read thePreschool Registration flyer for details.100TH DAY OF SCHOOLThe 100th day of school in Laurens County School District 55 is on January 26,2023.ALL LCSD 55 SCHOOL CAFETERIAS RATED EXCELLENT AAll Laurens County School District 55 school cafeterias have been inspected bythe South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC).All schools received an excellent A rating.FRESH FRUIT AND VEGETABLE PROGRAM GRANTAWARDED TO LCSD 55 SCHOOLSE.B. Morse Elementary School, Ford Elementary School, andWaterloo Elementary School have been awarded the FreshFruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) Grant for the secondphase. This program is an opportunity for schools to introducehealthy snack options to students throughout the school day.The current grant runs until June 2023.WE’RE HIRING AT LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 55If you are interested in becoming an employee of Laurens County School District 55, pleasewatch the We’re Hiring Video for current openings and details on how to apply. You may alsovisit the LCSD 55 Job Listings webpage and subscribe to receive free job alerts. Click the“Sign Up for Job Alerts” option on the upper right corner of the webpage and enter your emailaddress when prompted.SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS NEEDEDIf you are interested in becoming a substitute teacher in LCSD 55, please contact Kiantae Boyd at877-983-2244 or Kboyd@ess.com.

SAFETY IN LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 55Safety is very important in LCSD 55. There are many safety initiatives in place to keep allstudents and staff safe. The district also maintains a strong partnership with the Laurens CityPolice Department and the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office. Read the August 11, 2022, PressRelease to learn about safety initiatives implemented this year.LCSD 55 believes in continuous improvement and continues to evaluate and seek opportunitiesto enhance overall safety measures. LCSD 55 is thankful for the cooperation and support of ourstudents, parents, and community.STAY IN THE KNOWA weekly video to share school district newsJanuary 13, 2023A podcast of one-on-one conversationsArmond FloodA chance to hear how L55 has positivelyimpacted studentsMason GibbsA chance to hear about our excellentteachersBrennan DavisCLOSINGOn behalf of the LCSD 55 Board of Trustees, administrators, and staff thank you for yourpartnership, support, and continued engagement as we work together to serve your children andour community. Your input is greatly valued and we love to hear from you. Contact me atathomas@laurens55.org, call 864-984-3568, attend our school and district events, or view ourschool board meetings. Have a great week!Sincerely,Ameca C. Thomas, Ph.D.Proud Superintendent ofLaurens County School District 55Laurens County School District #55 is committed to the principle of equal opportunity. It is the policy ofthe district not to discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, color, age, national origin, immigrantstatus, English-speaking status, familial status, or disability with regard to students, employees, orapplicants for admission or employment.