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
#FreeThrowFridays made its first-semester stop at Georgetown Middle and Georgetown High on November 7. Dr. Giles met with a selected group of students to talk openly about their school experiences, share ideas, ask questions, and discuss what matters most to them. These on-court conversations continue to highlight the importance of student voice across GCSD.
#FreeThrowFriday
#TeamGCSD
#Let'sGoBulldogs
#FreeThrowFriday
#TeamGCSD
#Let'sGoBulldogs
Today is World Kindness Day.
At Georgetown County School District, we believe kindness is more than a simple act—it is a daily commitment that shapes our classrooms, strengthens our relationships, and builds a community where every person feels valued. Through our weekly Kindness Matters posts, we celebrate the many ways kindness shows up in our schools, and today, we pause to recognize its impact across our entire district.
This past weekend, we witnessed kindness in action during GCSD’s first annual Relay for Education. Thanks to the generosity and support of our schools, students, teachers, families, staff, and community members, more than $3,200 was raised—and contributions continue to come in—to support future teachers through the GCSD Teacher Forum’s Future Educator Scholarship Fund.
We extend heartfelt thanks to Cabana Boy of Pawleys Island for donating tents, and to DJ Mike for generously donating his time and talent. We are especially grateful for the teachers, school staff, district staff, students, and community members who took time out of their Saturday to walk in support of future educators. Your presence demonstrated the spirit of compassion and unity that defines GCSD.
On World Kindness Day, and every day, we are reminded that small acts of kindness create lasting change. Thank you to everyone who continues to show what it means when a community stands together with kindness at its heart.
Kindness matters—today and always.
#KindnessMatters
#WorldKindnessDay
#BeKind
#TeamGCSD
At Georgetown County School District, we believe kindness is more than a simple act—it is a daily commitment that shapes our classrooms, strengthens our relationships, and builds a community where every person feels valued. Through our weekly Kindness Matters posts, we celebrate the many ways kindness shows up in our schools, and today, we pause to recognize its impact across our entire district.
This past weekend, we witnessed kindness in action during GCSD’s first annual Relay for Education. Thanks to the generosity and support of our schools, students, teachers, families, staff, and community members, more than $3,200 was raised—and contributions continue to come in—to support future teachers through the GCSD Teacher Forum’s Future Educator Scholarship Fund.
We extend heartfelt thanks to Cabana Boy of Pawleys Island for donating tents, and to DJ Mike for generously donating his time and talent. We are especially grateful for the teachers, school staff, district staff, students, and community members who took time out of their Saturday to walk in support of future educators. Your presence demonstrated the spirit of compassion and unity that defines GCSD.
On World Kindness Day, and every day, we are reminded that small acts of kindness create lasting change. Thank you to everyone who continues to show what it means when a community stands together with kindness at its heart.
Kindness matters—today and always.
#KindnessMatters
#WorldKindnessDay
#BeKind
#TeamGCSD
At Rosemary Middle and Andrews High, Dr. Giles continued the #FreeThrowFridays tradition of student-centered conversations. Students engaged in basketball drills while discussing their schools, education, and ideas for the future.
#TeamGCSD
#FreeThrowFriday
#RMSCobras
#AHSYellowJackets
#ConversationswiththeSuperintendent
#TeamGCSD
#FreeThrowFriday
#RMSCobras
#AHSYellowJackets
#ConversationswiththeSuperintendent
On Tuesday, #GCSDReads visited Coastal Montessori Charter School with Dr. Giles, Mrs. Forrest, and guest reader Dr. Cutina Barrineau. The stories shared encouraged students to show and share kindness and to see themselves as lifelong learners.
#GCSDReads
#WeAreReaders
#GoStingrays
#GCSDReads
#WeAreReaders
#GoStingrays
This year’s Red Ribbon Week theme, “Life Is A Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free.™”, underscores how each choice we make plays an integral role in creating a brighter, drug-free future.
From October 23-31, join us in wearing red, hosting meaningful conversations, and promoting healthy, positive choices across our schools. Together, we’re putting the pieces of the puzzle in place so our students can build a drug-free life.
#RedRibbonWeek
#DrugFree
#TeamGCSD
From October 23-31, join us in wearing red, hosting meaningful conversations, and promoting healthy, positive choices across our schools. Together, we’re putting the pieces of the puzzle in place so our students can build a drug-free life.
#RedRibbonWeek
#DrugFree
#TeamGCSD
The Georgetown County Board of Trustees approved the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school calendars during its regular monthly meeting held on October 21, 2025.
To view the 2026-27 and 2027-28 GCSD School Calendars visit https://https://www.gcsd.k12.sc.us/documents/calendar/466666
To view the 2026-27 and 2027-28 GCSD School Calendars visit https://https://www.gcsd.k12.sc.us/documents/calendar/466666
Carvers Bay Middle Steam Academy and Carvers Bay Early College and Career High welcomed Dr. Giles for #FreeThrowFriday on October 17. Students shared their perspectives on learning, leadership, and school experiences, reminding us of the power of open dialogue.
#TeamGCSD
#freethrowfriday
#AchieveEvenGreaterTogether
#GoBears
#TeamGCSD
#freethrowfriday
#AchieveEvenGreaterTogether
#GoBears
October is National Principals Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the outstanding leaders who guide our schools every day.
Across Georgetown County School District, our principals work tirelessly to create safe, supportive, and inspiring learning environments for students and staff. Their leadership makes a lasting impact on our schools and community.
Today, we proudly celebrate all GCSD principals and their dedication to excellence in education.
#NationalPrincipalsMonth
#ThankAPrincipal
#TeamGCSD
Across Georgetown County School District, our principals work tirelessly to create safe, supportive, and inspiring learning environments for students and staff. Their leadership makes a lasting impact on our schools and community.
Today, we proudly celebrate all GCSD principals and their dedication to excellence in education.
#NationalPrincipalsMonth
#ThankAPrincipal
#TeamGCSD
Kindness Starts With You
It’s easy to think one small act won’t make a difference — but kindness has a ripple effect.
When we show respect, include others, and speak up when someone is treated unfairly, we make our schools and community safer for everyone.
Challenge: Notice someone who’s often left out — invite them to sit with you, study with you, or join your group.
Let’s make kindness the rule, not the exception.
#BeKind
#BullyingPreventionMonth
#KindnessMatters
#BeKindAlways
#TeamGCSD
It’s easy to think one small act won’t make a difference — but kindness has a ripple effect.
When we show respect, include others, and speak up when someone is treated unfairly, we make our schools and community safer for everyone.
Challenge: Notice someone who’s often left out — invite them to sit with you, study with you, or join your group.
Let’s make kindness the rule, not the exception.
#BeKind
#BullyingPreventionMonth
#KindnessMatters
#BeKindAlways
#TeamGCSD
Georgetown County School District
Class of 2026
Commencement Schedule
Georgetown County Adult Education
Wednesday, May 20 at 6 p.m.
Waccamaw High School
Tuesday, May 26 at 7:30 p.m.
Andrews High School
Wednesday, May 27 at 7:30 p.m.
Carvers Bay Early College & Career High School
Thursday, May 28 at 7:30 p.m.
Georgetown High School
Friday, May29 at 7:30 p.m.
#TeamGCSD
#Class of2026
Class of 2026
Commencement Schedule
Georgetown County Adult Education
Wednesday, May 20 at 6 p.m.
Waccamaw High School
Tuesday, May 26 at 7:30 p.m.
Andrews High School
Wednesday, May 27 at 7:30 p.m.
Carvers Bay Early College & Career High School
Thursday, May 28 at 7:30 p.m.
Georgetown High School
Friday, May29 at 7:30 p.m.
#TeamGCSD
#Class of2026
Today at Sampit Elementary, Dr. Giles, Mrs. Forrest, and guest reader Mr. Batton shared stories that highlighted the joy of reading. #GCSDReads helps students discover that every book is a new adventure.
#GCSDReads
#TeamGCSD
#SESPanthersRead
#GCSDReads
#TeamGCSD
#SESPanthersRead
Kindness is Powerful
Bullying can take many forms — words, actions, and even silence. But kindness can take just as many.
A kind word, a smile, or an invitation to join in can change someone’s entire day. This week, we remind students, families, and the community that kindness is courage in action.
Challenge: Do one intentional act of kindness today for someone who least expects it.
#BeKind
#BullyingPreventionMonth
#KindnessMatters
#BeKindAlways
#TeamGCSD
Bullying can take many forms — words, actions, and even silence. But kindness can take just as many.
A kind word, a smile, or an invitation to join in can change someone’s entire day. This week, we remind students, families, and the community that kindness is courage in action.
Challenge: Do one intentional act of kindness today for someone who least expects it.
#BeKind
#BullyingPreventionMonth
#KindnessMatters
#BeKindAlways
#TeamGCSD
It’s South Carolina Metric Week! October 5–11, 2025, is a time to celebrate the metric system—the international language of measurement used in science, math, and everyday life.
Even though our students are on Fall Break, there are plenty of fun ways to explore the metric system at home! From cooking and crafts to friendly family measurement challenges, Metric Week is a great opportunity to connect learning with real-world experiences.
Check out a few at-home activities below, and don’t miss the Governor’s Proclamation recognizing Metric Week in South Carolina.
At-Home Activities
• Family Measurement Challenge: Measure items around the house—like a TV, book, or table—in centimeters or meters. See who can estimate closest before measuring!
• Cooking with Metrics: Pick a favorite recipe and convert the ingredient measurements into milliliters and grams.
• Outdoor Explorer: Take a nature walk and measure leaves, sticks, or rocks using a metric ruler or tape measure.
• Temperature Tracker: Record the outdoor temperature in Celsius each morning and compare it with the Fahrenheit reading.
#SCMetricWeek
#MathInAction
#TeamGCSD
#FallBreak2025
Even though our students are on Fall Break, there are plenty of fun ways to explore the metric system at home! From cooking and crafts to friendly family measurement challenges, Metric Week is a great opportunity to connect learning with real-world experiences.
Check out a few at-home activities below, and don’t miss the Governor’s Proclamation recognizing Metric Week in South Carolina.
At-Home Activities
• Family Measurement Challenge: Measure items around the house—like a TV, book, or table—in centimeters or meters. See who can estimate closest before measuring!
• Cooking with Metrics: Pick a favorite recipe and convert the ingredient measurements into milliliters and grams.
• Outdoor Explorer: Take a nature walk and measure leaves, sticks, or rocks using a metric ruler or tape measure.
• Temperature Tracker: Record the outdoor temperature in Celsius each morning and compare it with the Fahrenheit reading.
#SCMetricWeek
#MathInAction
#TeamGCSD
#FallBreak2025
