Auditions are coming up for the Summer BEACH Visual Art, Choral Music, and Drama programs!
Students who will be rising 6th–12th graders are invited to audition on Tuesday, April 14 at Georgetown Middle School.
Nomination forms can be downloaded here:
Art - https://drive.google.com/file/d/15S8zG1e_0z80XVDTo5v82aZJxJDBoTl3/view?usp=sharing
Drama - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jDierDKIPq0dGszeXs4aviUoK2mIZ2M7/view?usp=sharing
Choral Music - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NxFs-PcvwjWmdNSYo8M_bbxyenh2AGyj/view?usp=sharing
Forms may be completed by students, parents, or teachers, but all nominations must be submitted by March 25.
Students accepted into the program will participate June 2–4, June 8–11, and June 15–18 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day.
For audition preparation:
• Art: Bring 4 artwork pieces, complete a drawing, and participate in a short interview
• Drama: Perform a 2–3 minute monologue, oral reading, or verbal improvisation
• Music: Perform a solo and complete a simple rhythm exercise
At McDonald Elementary, Dr. Giles, Mrs. Forrest, and guest reader Adrienne Watford shared stories that encouraged curiosity, creativity, and kindness.. #GCSDReads inspires students to see reading as a lifelong adventure.
We are helping spread the word about an incredible opportunity being offered by the South Carolina Department of Education’s Office of Student and Community Engagement.
SCDE is hosting a FREE Mentorship and Literacy Tutoring Training on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at The Lake House (318 Charles St., Lake City, SC).
Participants will:
• Experience a John Maxwell i-Lead Transformation Table
• Hear from two South Carolina organizations that successfully mentor students
• Learn literacy tutoring strategies from two SCDE literacy specialists
This community-focused training is designed to equip participants with tools they can use both in and out of schools to guide others in a positive direction through mentoring and to help struggling readers through literacy tutoring.
While the primary focus is on community members, educators are welcome to attend and can earn three renewal credits for participation.
SCDE is targeting the entire Pee Dee Region — eleven counties — and is hoping to reach as many individuals and organizations as possible. Please consider sharing this opportunity with school leaders, churches and ecumenical partners, extended learning programs, and community networks who may benefit.
The event is free, but pre-registration is recommended to ensure adequate materials are prepared. Please use the QR code on the flyer to register.
Thank you for helping support mentoring and literacy efforts across our region.
SCDE is hosting a FREE Mentorship and Literacy Tutoring Training on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at The Lake House (318 Charles St., Lake City, SC).
Participants will:
• Experience a John Maxwell i-Lead Transformation Table
• Hear from two South Carolina organizations that successfully mentor students
• Learn literacy tutoring strategies from two SCDE literacy specialists
This community-focused training is designed to equip participants with tools they can use both in and out of schools to guide others in a positive direction through mentoring and to help struggling readers through literacy tutoring.
While the primary focus is on community members, educators are welcome to attend and can earn three renewal credits for participation.
SCDE is targeting the entire Pee Dee Region — eleven counties — and is hoping to reach as many individuals and organizations as possible. Please consider sharing this opportunity with school leaders, churches and ecumenical partners, extended learning programs, and community networks who may benefit.
The event is free, but pre-registration is recommended to ensure adequate materials are prepared. Please use the QR code on the flyer to register.
Thank you for helping support mentoring and literacy efforts across our region.
Georgetown County School District invites parents, families, and community members to join us for an engaging Sources of Strength Parent & Community Night — an interactive training focused on building hope, help, and strength within our homes and community.
During this session, participants will:
• Discover personal and community strengths
• Learn strategies to build stronger relationships
• Develop resilience and healthy coping tools
• Cultivate a sense of belonging
• Strengthen skills as a Trusted Adult for youth
**Training Details**
Thursday, March 19, 2026
5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
JB Beck Administration & Education Center
2018 Church Street, Georgetown, SC
Sources of Strength is a nationally recognized, evidence-based program that promotes mental wellness, connection, and help-seeking behaviors for both youth and adults. This is a valuable opportunity to invest in yourself, your family, and our community.
We hope you will join us for this meaningful evening.
During this session, participants will:
• Discover personal and community strengths
• Learn strategies to build stronger relationships
• Develop resilience and healthy coping tools
• Cultivate a sense of belonging
• Strengthen skills as a Trusted Adult for youth
**Training Details**
Thursday, March 19, 2026
5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
JB Beck Administration & Education Center
2018 Church Street, Georgetown, SC
Sources of Strength is a nationally recognized, evidence-based program that promotes mental wellness, connection, and help-seeking behaviors for both youth and adults. This is a valuable opportunity to invest in yourself, your family, and our community.
We hope you will join us for this meaningful evening.
Ready to take the next step in your teaching career?
Georgetown County School District invites certified educators to join us for our Virtual Certified Job Fair Meet & Greet Event, March 9–12, 2026. This is a great opportunity to connect with school leaders, explore career opportunities, and discover where your teaching journey can thrive.
Sessions are organized by certification areas so you can participate in the conversations most relevant to your experience and interests. All certification areas are welcome.
March 9 — High School | 4:30–6:00 p.m.
March 10 — Middle Level | 4:30–6:00 p.m.
March 11 — Special Education | 4:00–5:30 p.m.
March 12 — Early Childhood & Elementary | 4:00–5:30 p.m.
Bring your talent, creativity, and commitment to student success to GCSD. Register using the QR code on the flyer and take the next step with #TeamGCSD.
Georgetown County School District invites certified educators to join us for our Virtual Certified Job Fair Meet & Greet Event, March 9–12, 2026. This is a great opportunity to connect with school leaders, explore career opportunities, and discover where your teaching journey can thrive.
Sessions are organized by certification areas so you can participate in the conversations most relevant to your experience and interests. All certification areas are welcome.
March 9 — High School | 4:30–6:00 p.m.
March 10 — Middle Level | 4:30–6:00 p.m.
March 11 — Special Education | 4:00–5:30 p.m.
March 12 — Early Childhood & Elementary | 4:00–5:30 p.m.
Bring your talent, creativity, and commitment to student success to GCSD. Register using the QR code on the flyer and take the next step with #TeamGCSD.
The 2026 GCSD All-County Chorus Concert was held on Thursday, February 12, at Waccamaw High School, featuring talented student vocalists from the district’s four middle schools and four high schools. The evening was a wonderful celebration of musical excellence, collaboration, and the dedication of our students and educators.
Middle school students performed under the direction of clinician Michele Welton, accompanied by Olivia Powell Huggins. High school students were led by clinician Phil Suggs, with accompaniment by Eileen Kramer.
Thank you to our guest clinicians and accompanists, our dedicated chorus directors, and the families who support our student musicians.
Congratulations to all participants on an outstanding performance!
#TeamGCSD
#GCSDArts
#AllCountyChorus
Middle school students performed under the direction of clinician Michele Welton, accompanied by Olivia Powell Huggins. High school students were led by clinician Phil Suggs, with accompaniment by Eileen Kramer.
Thank you to our guest clinicians and accompanists, our dedicated chorus directors, and the families who support our student musicians.
Congratulations to all participants on an outstanding performance!
#TeamGCSD
#GCSDArts
#AllCountyChorus
Georgetown County School District Magnet Program applications for the 2026–2027 school year will open soon.
Magnet Application Window 1 opens Monday, February 23, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. and closes Monday, March 9, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Families interested in applying to one of GCSD’s magnet programs — including Pleasant Hill Elementary School STREAM Academy, Carvers Bay Middle STEAM Academy, Carvers Bay Early College and Career High School, Plantersville Elementary Digital Immersion School, and Brown’s Ferry Elementary School for the Creative and Performing Arts — are encouraged to submit an application during this window.
To apply, visit: http://georgetownmagnets.novuschoice.com
For more information about GCSD magnet programs, please contact your child’s school or visit the district website.
#TeamGCSD
#PathwaysToSuccess
Magnet Application Window 1 opens Monday, February 23, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. and closes Monday, March 9, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Families interested in applying to one of GCSD’s magnet programs — including Pleasant Hill Elementary School STREAM Academy, Carvers Bay Middle STEAM Academy, Carvers Bay Early College and Career High School, Plantersville Elementary Digital Immersion School, and Brown’s Ferry Elementary School for the Creative and Performing Arts — are encouraged to submit an application during this window.
To apply, visit: http://georgetownmagnets.novuschoice.com
For more information about GCSD magnet programs, please contact your child’s school or visit the district website.
#TeamGCSD
#PathwaysToSuccess
We visited Rosemary Middle and Andrews High for our second #FreeThrowFridays stop of the 2025–2026 school year on Friday, February 6. Dr. Giles met again with the student group from the first semester to continue the conversation and build on earlier discussions.
While working through basketball drills and warm-ups, students shared additional feedback, reflections, and ideas about their school experiences and opportunities for growth. Follow-up sessions like this allow for deeper dialogue and continued focus on student voice. Photos from the visit are included below.
#FreeThrowFridays
#TeamGCSD
#Rosemary Cobras
#AndrewsYellowJackets
While working through basketball drills and warm-ups, students shared additional feedback, reflections, and ideas about their school experiences and opportunities for growth. Follow-up sessions like this allow for deeper dialogue and continued focus on student voice. Photos from the visit are included below.
#FreeThrowFridays
#TeamGCSD
#Rosemary Cobras
#AndrewsYellowJackets
On Tuesday, February 10, Superintendent Dr. Bethany A. Giles visited Kensington Elementary along with Mrs. Forrest and guest reader Dr. Cutina Barrineau to bring stories to life for students. Their time in classrooms highlighted the power of reading and meaningful connections with our learners.
#GCSDReads
#TeamGCSD
#LiteracyMatters
#KoalasAreReaders
#GCSDReads
#TeamGCSD
#LiteracyMatters
#KoalasAreReaders
Georgetown County School District is proud to celebrate outstanding achievements at Georgetown Middle School.
Carolyn Wilson, Media Paraprofessional at GMS, has been selected as the South Carolina Association of School Librarians Library Paraprofessional of the Year. She was nominated by GMS Media Specialist Jenny Cox in recognition of her exemplary service and direct support of the school library program at the building and district levels.
In addition, Jenny Cox has been named the recipient of the South Carolina Association of School Librarians Outstanding School Library Program of the Year Award. This honor recognizes an exemplary library program demonstrating strength in foundations, learning environment, teaching and learning, collaborative partnerships, advocacy and outreach, and leadership.
Both were notified this morning by school administration and GCSD’s Director of Special Programs Adrienne Watford. We are incredibly proud of Ms. Wilson and Mrs. Cox for their dedication to students, literacy, and learning.
Please join us in congratulating them on these well-deserved recognitions.
#TeamGCSD
#SCASL
Carolyn Wilson, Media Paraprofessional at GMS, has been selected as the South Carolina Association of School Librarians Library Paraprofessional of the Year. She was nominated by GMS Media Specialist Jenny Cox in recognition of her exemplary service and direct support of the school library program at the building and district levels.
In addition, Jenny Cox has been named the recipient of the South Carolina Association of School Librarians Outstanding School Library Program of the Year Award. This honor recognizes an exemplary library program demonstrating strength in foundations, learning environment, teaching and learning, collaborative partnerships, advocacy and outreach, and leadership.
Both were notified this morning by school administration and GCSD’s Director of Special Programs Adrienne Watford. We are incredibly proud of Ms. Wilson and Mrs. Cox for their dedication to students, literacy, and learning.
Please join us in congratulating them on these well-deserved recognitions.
#TeamGCSD
#SCASL
On Friday, January 30, 2026, Dr. Giles returned to Waccamaw Middle and Waccamaw High for another #FreeThrowFridays session, continuing the conversations that began during the first semester. The returning student group met with Dr. Giles to build on earlier discussions and share updated perspectives and ideas.
While working through basketball drills and warm-ups, students talked with Dr. Giles about their school experiences, priorities, and suggestions for continued growth. The follow-up visit allowed for deeper dialogue and reflection, reinforcing the importance of student voice and ongoing collaboration. Photos from the session are included below.
Kindness is the heart of connection.
On Friday, our All-County Band students came together through music—supporting one another, listening, collaborating, and creating something meaningful as a team.
Moments like these remind us that kindness isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s encouragement, patience, and showing up for one another. Reach out to someone who might need a friend today.
#BeKind
#KindnessMatters
#TeamGCSD
#GCSDArts
#AllCountyBand
On Friday, our All-County Band students came together through music—supporting one another, listening, collaborating, and creating something meaningful as a team.
Moments like these remind us that kindness isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s encouragement, patience, and showing up for one another. Reach out to someone who might need a friend today.
#BeKind
#KindnessMatters
#TeamGCSD
#GCSDArts
#AllCountyBand
🎓 Scholarship Opportunity for GCSD Seniors 🎓
The GCSD Teacher Forum is proud to offer a $1,000 scholarship to one graduating senior from each attendance zone who plans to pursue a degree in education. This scholarship is designed to support and encourage the next generation of educators as they begin their journey.
Application Details:
• Fully digital application
• Deadline: March 17, 2026
• Requirements include one essay, two letters of recommendation, and an official transcript
Apply here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfQvOxv5EevG8lWsWlct3Wt0TxSnZz2Kg0iMwSqd-0FOKdxwQ/viewform?usp=dialog
—or scan the QR code on the flyer.
For questions, contact mimarshall@gcsd.k12.sc.us.
#TeamGCSD
#GCSDTeacherForum
#FutureEducators
The GCSD Teacher Forum is proud to offer a $1,000 scholarship to one graduating senior from each attendance zone who plans to pursue a degree in education. This scholarship is designed to support and encourage the next generation of educators as they begin their journey.
Application Details:
• Fully digital application
• Deadline: March 17, 2026
• Requirements include one essay, two letters of recommendation, and an official transcript
Apply here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfQvOxv5EevG8lWsWlct3Wt0TxSnZz2Kg0iMwSqd-0FOKdxwQ/viewform?usp=dialog
—or scan the QR code on the flyer.
For questions, contact mimarshall@gcsd.k12.sc.us.
#TeamGCSD
#GCSDTeacherForum
#FutureEducators
Brown’s Ferry Elementary School for the Creative and Performing Arts is celebrating the success of its National Beta Club members following their participation in the South Carolina Elementary Beta State Convention.
Students earned a 1st Place win in Apparel Design, showcasing their creativity, teamwork, and dedication at the state level. This achievement now qualifies them to advance to the National Beta Convention, which will be held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee, in Summer 2026.
“Serving as Beta Club Sponsor and attending the SC Elementary Beta Convention was an incredible experience. It was even more meaningful to watch our students’ creativity shine with a 1st place win in Apparel Design,” said Brantay Q. Cohens, Beta Club Sponsor and South Carolina Elementary Sponsor-Elect.
The Beta Club at Brown’s Ferry Elementary School for the Creative and Performing Arts was chartered on October 29, 2024, and currently includes ten active members who are engaged in both school and community service initiatives.
National Beta is the nation’s largest independent, nonprofit educational youth organization, promoting academic achievement, character, service, and leadership among students. Congratulations to our students and sponsors on this outstanding accomplishment and for representing Brown’s Ferry and Georgetown County School District with excellence.
#TeamGCSD
#BrownsFerryElementary
#BetaClub
#PathwaystoPossibilities
Students earned a 1st Place win in Apparel Design, showcasing their creativity, teamwork, and dedication at the state level. This achievement now qualifies them to advance to the National Beta Convention, which will be held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee, in Summer 2026.
“Serving as Beta Club Sponsor and attending the SC Elementary Beta Convention was an incredible experience. It was even more meaningful to watch our students’ creativity shine with a 1st place win in Apparel Design,” said Brantay Q. Cohens, Beta Club Sponsor and South Carolina Elementary Sponsor-Elect.
The Beta Club at Brown’s Ferry Elementary School for the Creative and Performing Arts was chartered on October 29, 2024, and currently includes ten active members who are engaged in both school and community service initiatives.
National Beta is the nation’s largest independent, nonprofit educational youth organization, promoting academic achievement, character, service, and leadership among students. Congratulations to our students and sponsors on this outstanding accomplishment and for representing Brown’s Ferry and Georgetown County School District with excellence.
#TeamGCSD
#BrownsFerryElementary
#BetaClub
#PathwaystoPossibilities
**Carvers Bay Middle School STEAM Academy Named Magnet School of Distinction**
Carvers Bay Middle School STEAM Academy has been named a New and Emerging Magnet School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools.
This national honor recognizes the school’s innovative, hands-on approach to learning through science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. Students engage in real-world, project-based experiences that build critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity, supported by programs such as AVID and partnerships with organizations like the SC Sea Grant Consortium.
From robotics teams advancing to regional competitions to expanded fine arts opportunities and national student achievements, Carvers Bay Middle School STEAM Academy continues to foster a culture of excellence, pride, and innovation.
The school will be formally recognized at the Magnet Schools of America National Conference, April 14–17, 2026, in San Diego.
Learn more about the National Merit Awards Program at www.magnet.edu
#TeamGCSD
#PathwaysToPossibilities
#CBMSABears
Carvers Bay Middle School STEAM Academy has been named a New and Emerging Magnet School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools.
This national honor recognizes the school’s innovative, hands-on approach to learning through science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. Students engage in real-world, project-based experiences that build critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity, supported by programs such as AVID and partnerships with organizations like the SC Sea Grant Consortium.
From robotics teams advancing to regional competitions to expanded fine arts opportunities and national student achievements, Carvers Bay Middle School STEAM Academy continues to foster a culture of excellence, pride, and innovation.
The school will be formally recognized at the Magnet Schools of America National Conference, April 14–17, 2026, in San Diego.
Learn more about the National Merit Awards Program at www.magnet.edu
#TeamGCSD
#PathwaysToPossibilities
#CBMSABears
Due to the possibility of hazardous travel conditions associated with the potential for wintry weather this weekend, Georgetown County School District will implement an eLearning day on Monday, February 2, 2026. All extracurricular activities, including athletics and other events scheduled for Saturday and Sunday (January 31 and February 1), are canceled, and those scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026, will be postponed.
All schools and district offices will be closed for in-person operations. The District will operate on an eLearning schedule for students and staff. Chromebooks are being sent home today with students in grades 3–12. Learning packets are being sent home with students in PK–2nd grade. Assignments must be submitted within three (3) days of our return to school in order for students to be counted present for the eLearning day. School staff will provide specific directions to students regarding eLearning expectations.
The District will provide another update no later than 3:00 p.m. on Monday, February 2, regarding any potential changes to the school schedule for Tuesday.
For updates, families and staff should monitor the District website, GCSD’s Facebook page, and local media outlets. We encourage everyone to enjoy the wintry weather while also remaining safe.
2025-2026 eLearning Flyer - https://tinyurl.com/25-26eLearning
All schools and district offices will be closed for in-person operations. The District will operate on an eLearning schedule for students and staff. Chromebooks are being sent home today with students in grades 3–12. Learning packets are being sent home with students in PK–2nd grade. Assignments must be submitted within three (3) days of our return to school in order for students to be counted present for the eLearning day. School staff will provide specific directions to students regarding eLearning expectations.
The District will provide another update no later than 3:00 p.m. on Monday, February 2, regarding any potential changes to the school schedule for Tuesday.
For updates, families and staff should monitor the District website, GCSD’s Facebook page, and local media outlets. We encourage everyone to enjoy the wintry weather while also remaining safe.
2025-2026 eLearning Flyer - https://tinyurl.com/25-26eLearning
Students at Andrews Elementary welcomed Dr. Giles, Mrs. Forrest, and guest reader Deanna Stone for today’s #GCSDReads visit. Together, they reminded students that reading is the foundation of learning and discovery.
#GCSDReads
#TeamGCSD
#AESPandas
#GCSDReads
#TeamGCSD
#AESPandas
Georgetown County School District will host a Parent & Community Education Night in each attendance zone, with the first session taking place in Andrews. Andrews parents and community members are encouraged to attend, and all parents across the district are welcome.
Vape Talk
January 15
5:00 PM
Andrews High School Auditorium
This session will provide important information about youth vaping, the health risks associated with vaping, and current trends impacting students. Practical prevention strategies and resources available to parents and the community will be shared.
Join us for this important conversation as we work together to support healthy choices for our students. Additional education nights in other attendance zones will be announced soon.
Vape Talk
January 15
5:00 PM
Andrews High School Auditorium
This session will provide important information about youth vaping, the health risks associated with vaping, and current trends impacting students. Practical prevention strategies and resources available to parents and the community will be shared.
Join us for this important conversation as we work together to support healthy choices for our students. Additional education nights in other attendance zones will be announced soon.
Dr. Giles and guest readers Mrs. Stone and Dr. Holt shared their love of reading during today’s #GCSDReads visit to Pleasant Hill Elementary STREAM Academy. Each page read today was a step toward building brighter futures.
#TeamGCSD
#GCSDReads
#PHESABears
#TeamGCSD
#GCSDReads
#PHESABears
Last week, Brown’s Ferry Elementary and McDonald Elementary celebrated the installation and opening of their new Disc Golf Courses with ribbon-cutting ceremonies and student tournament play. These courses were made possible through $5,000 Opportunity Grants awarded earlier this year, along with additional support from LiveWell Georgetown.
Both schools partnered with professionals from the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) to guide installation and introduce students and staff to this exciting, fast-growing sport. Physical Education teachers, volunteers, and district staff worked together to prepare the courses, and our students were eager to take part in the first rounds of play.
Brown’s Ferry held its ribbon cutting on November 19, followed by Round 1 of tournament play. On November 20, McDonald Elementary hosted its ceremony and Round 2, concluding with an awards presentation. Students from both schools participated on each day, showcasing teamwork, sportsmanship, and plenty of enthusiasm for this new addition to their campuses.
GCSD is grateful for the continued support of partners and donors who help expand opportunities for health, wellness, and recreation for our students. Congratulations to Brown’s Ferry and McDonald on successful tournament days and the launch of their new courses.
#TeamGCSD
#DiscGolfChallenge
#ThankYouLiveWellGeorgetown
#ThankYouBlueCrossandBlueShieldSouthCarolinaFoundation
Both schools partnered with professionals from the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) to guide installation and introduce students and staff to this exciting, fast-growing sport. Physical Education teachers, volunteers, and district staff worked together to prepare the courses, and our students were eager to take part in the first rounds of play.
Brown’s Ferry held its ribbon cutting on November 19, followed by Round 1 of tournament play. On November 20, McDonald Elementary hosted its ceremony and Round 2, concluding with an awards presentation. Students from both schools participated on each day, showcasing teamwork, sportsmanship, and plenty of enthusiasm for this new addition to their campuses.
GCSD is grateful for the continued support of partners and donors who help expand opportunities for health, wellness, and recreation for our students. Congratulations to Brown’s Ferry and McDonald on successful tournament days and the launch of their new courses.
#TeamGCSD
#DiscGolfChallenge
#ThankYouLiveWellGeorgetown
#ThankYouBlueCrossandBlueShieldSouthCarolinaFoundation
