Aiken County Public Schools is excited to announce two new employee categories this year for STARS of Public Education, our annual staff recognition event. In addition to GEM (Giving Even More), Teacher of the Year, First Year Teacher of the Year, Assistant Principal of the Year, and Principal of the Year, the district will introduce a Professional Staff Member of the Year Award as well as a District Level Administrator of the Year Award.
“Our hope is that adding these new categories will support our efforts to recognize staff members in each and every role across the district for the outstanding service and support they provide to our students, staff, and community,” shared Jennifer Hart, Chief Officer of Human Resources and Administration.
GEM, TEACHER OF THE YEAR, FIRST YEAR TEACHER OF THE YEAR
The GEM Award highlights and recognizes classified staff for “Giving Even More” by providing exemplary service throughout the district. Staff eligible for the GEM award are hourly wage, non-certified staff to include employees serving in Support I-VI positions, Bus Drivers, Aides, School Food Service Managers, Clerk/Office Staff, and the Administrative Assistant to the Board & Superintendent.
The Teacher of the Year Award recognizes Aiken County educators for their dedication to serving students and families, community involvement, and commitment to professional learning and development. The First Year Teacher of the Year Award celebrates exceptionally skillful and dedicated first year educators distinguishing themselves as emerging leaders.
Staff members began nominating eligible employees on September 22 by completing a nomination form and submitting it to the GEM, Teacher of the Year, and First Year Teacher of the Year Selection Committee at their school or department location.
PROFESSIONAL STAFF MEMBER OF THE YEAR, DISTRICT LEVEL ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR, PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR
The new Professional Staff Member of the Year Award will highlight professional staff members who go above and beyond in their professional role to serve the students and staff of Aiken County. Staff eligible for the Professional Staff Member of the Year Award include employees serving in Supervisor I-III positions, or as Occupational Therapists/Physical Therapists, Nurses, School Psychologists, Program Specialists, Content Interventionists, and Professional I & II positions.
The second new category being introduced this year is District Level Administrator of the Year. This award will recognize Coordinators, Directors, and Assistant Superintendents at the district level for their involvement with regional and statewide educational issues and their dedication to making a positive impact in the school district.
The Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year Awards recognize school administrators shaping academic success of students, cultivating leadership in their building, and providing high-quality learning opportunities. Candidates for Principal and Assistant Principal of the year demonstrate exemplary contributions to their profession. Extraordinary standards for instruction, student achievement, and character are at the forefront for these leaders.
On October 5, a nomination link will open for employees to nominate eligible staff members for the Professional Staff Member of the Year, District Level Administrator of the Year, Principal of the Year, and Assistant Principal of the Year awards. The link for nominations will close on November 18.
We look forward to partnering with community businesses and organizations for sponsorship opportunities as we host our school winners, recognize top nominees, and announce district winners for each category during the STARS of Public Education Banquet at Aiken High School on March 30, 2023.
LINK TO DISTRICT PRESS RELEASE: STARS OF PUBLIC EDUCATION PR 2023-24