CLASS ACTS Celebrating the Class of 2020 GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT Dear Seniors, Coronavirus interrupted and completely changed your lives. Your senior year is ending in a way you never would have imagined. While social distancing kept you from dancing at the senior prom, signing your best friend’s yearbook, or feeling the emotional closure of a goodbye hug, you will remember 2020 as a year like no other. You will remember high school as the best four years of your life. You will remember the laughter, friendships, and experiences that shaped you. You will remember your favorite teacher, principal, or coach who instilled a strong work ethic and taught you valuable life lessons. You’ll remember that you inspired classmates to be their best. You’ll remember that you reached for your dreams - and achieved them. You’ll remember that you and your fellow seniors showed an incredible amount of courage, strength, adaptability, and resilience. You’ll remember the lessons you learned from social distancing. And you will remember that it takes 20 seconds of handwashing to help prevent the spread of a virus. Mr. Rogers, the children’s TV icon who made the world a better place through kindness and encouragement, said, “Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” You are standing at the beginning of something else. As you close the chapter on your high school years, take the knowledge, skills, and life lessons you learned and use them well as you begin the next chapter of your life. Sincerely,
W. Burke Royster, Ph.D. Superintendent, Greenville County Schools
INSIDE… • Valedictorians & Salutatorians . . . . . 4-5 • Class of 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 • What eLearning Taught Us . . . . . . . . . . 7 • Partner of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 • Graduation Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
CLASS ACTS 2020 EDITION | 1 Supplement to the Greenville Journal | GRADUATION Friday, May 29, 2020
What is SmartARTS? SmartARTS is the Metropolitan Arts Council’s successful arts education initiative that provides Greenville County Schools with teaching artists, art supplies and arts integration training to facilitate arts-integrated units in the classroom.
Congrats GCS Teachers of the Year!
2019 was a record-setting year for SmartARTS with 86 artsintegrated units across 34 schools, up from 17 schools in the 2016-17 school year. Forty-four new teachers received SmartARTS arts integration training at our summer institute.
Sterling School science and pottery unit with teaching artist, Shane Bryant.
SmartARTS Goals: 1. Training new Greenville County School teachers each year in the planning and use of successful arts integration methods. 2. Pairing SmartARTS teaching artists with teachers and providing support for planning rigorous units. 3. Implementing, documenting and assessing units that are inquirybased and highly experiential to encourage career-ready creative problem-solving by students.
Learn more: Metropolitan Arts Council | 16 Augusta Street, Greenville, SC 29601 kimberly@greenvilleARTS.com | greenvilleARTS.com/smartARTS @smartARTSgvl
facebook.com/smartARTSgreenvillesc SmartARTS summer training institute at the Fine Arts Center.
FIND YOUR FIT. With 100+ programs, we have something for you! School of Arts & Sciences University Transfer Honors Program Visual Arts School of Business & Computer Technology Accounting Administrative Office Technology Computer Technology Management Marketing Supply Chain Management School of Health Sciences Animal Studies Cancer Data Management Computed Tomography Dental Diagnostic Medical Sonography Emergency Medical Technology (Paramedic)
Health Information Management Magnetic Resonance Imaging Massage Therapy Medical Assistant Medical Laboratory Technology Medical Scribe Nursing Occupational Therapy Assistant Patient Care Technician Pharmacy Technician Physical Therapist Assistant Radiologic Technology Respiratory Care Surgical Technology School of Education & Professional Studies Cosmetology Criminal Justice Culinary Institute of the Carolinas Early Care & Education Human Services
Paralegal Sustainable Agriculture School of Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Technology Advanced Manufacturing Technology (Bachelor in Applied Science) Architectural Engineering Technology CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Programming & Operations Construction Engineering Technology Electronics Engineering Technology Engineering Design Technology Engineering Transfer Machine Tool Technology Mechanical Engineering Technology Mechatronics Technology
School of Aviation, Construction & Transportation Technologies Aircraft Maintenance Technology Auto Body Repair Automotive Technology Building Construction Technology Diesel Equipment Technology Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC/R) Industrial Electricity Truck Driver Training Welding
Did you know that Greenville Tech graduates earn more than 40% higher annual incomes than those with just high school diplomas?*
Start today! Visit www.gvltec.edu/myGTCexperience/. Source: GTC Economic Impact Report (www.gvltec.edu/roi/)
*
Helping people love w hat they do for a living. www.gvltec.edu
CO N G R AT U L AT I O N S TO T H E S E C L A S S AC T S ! BEREA HIGH
BLUE RIDGE HIGH
CAROLINA HIGH & ACADEMY
VALEDICTORIAN: Karen Vazquez Primero
VALEDICTORIAN: Kelly LeeAnn Forrester
VALEDICTORIAN: Celeste Alcantar-Garcia
SALUTATORIAN: Maria Ventura-Morales
SALUTATORIAN: Julia Anne Shennan
SALUTATORIAN: Jacob Daniel Levesque
CLASS SIZE: 221
CLASS SIZE: 253
CLASS SIZE: 158
Mrs. Cynthia Tisdale and Mrs. Maxine Cassells offer guidance regarding both their subjects and their students’ lives outside the classroom. They work hard to make sure their students are challenged by their work, while ensuring they understand the material. They provide opportunities to become more open-minded and explore new concepts and provide an environment for comfortable discussion.”
When I think back on my school experiences, the first memories that come to mind are the ones I made while in Choir. Choir has brought me so many friends from so many different walks of life that I will keep with me for a lifetime.”
I’m beyond grateful for Carolina’s wonderful ambiance, sustained by the most compassionate principal. Mr. Michael Delaney believes in and is attentive to me and all of my classmates, so much so that he wrote a recommendation for me with only his observations.”
DONALDSON CAREER CENTER
EASTSIDE HIGH
ENOREE CAREER CENTER
HONOR STUDENT: Airy Medina-Reynoso
VALEDICTORIAN: Chloe Siobhan Wright SALUTATORIAN: William Robert Harrison
HONOR STUDENT: Christos Bismpikis
CLASS SIZE: 350 Airy demonstrates integrity and raises the bar on all endeavors in the graphic design field. Because of his imagination, a genuine love for visual communication, and a passion to prove himself to the world, Airy will surely be one of the world’s strongest graphic designers.
Sra. Sarah Furr has had a significant impact on my understanding of the Spanish language and my confidence in speaking it. I am so glad to have had her as my teacher and know that I will carry a love for the language and culture of Spanish-speaking countries throughout my life.”
During my education experience in Greenville County Schools, I learned to work on cars, keep up with my work, complete assignments, and have fun. The best times were at Enoree Career Center. I took Automotive Technology with Mr. Tavis Lydic. He is the best teacher and he has taught all the students how to work on cars safely and enjoy the work.”
FINE ARTS CENTER
GOLDEN STRIP CAREER CENTER
GREENVILLE SR. HIGH
HONOR STUDENT: Nicholas Michael Dean Turgeon
HONOR STUDENT: Robert Anthony Phillips
VALEDICTORIAN: Margaret Anna Wilson SALUTATORIAN: Charles Joseph Arnold CLASS SIZE: 323
Of all the wonderful teachers and staff members that I have had the pleasure of working with, Ms. April Dauscha has had the greatest impact. She helped me develop my artistic practice, challenged my preconceptions, and constantly encouraged me to do my best. Without her expertise and guidance, I have no idea what my artistic practice would be today.” 4 |
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
Robert has earned first-place state and national recognition in welding competitions and was also named Student of the Year last year by SkillsUSA. He enjoys science, math, and flying remote control planes. Robert is currently working fulltime at Triple Tree Aerodrome.
Student Council has positively impacted my education because it got me more involved within my school and allowed me to see another aspect of school besides academics. It also created a special community and support system to help me through my four years at Greenville High Academy.”
GREER HIGH
HILLCREST HIGH
J. L. MANN HIGH ACADEMY
VALEDICTORIAN: Gisselle Garcia-Jose
VALEDICTORIAN: Adam Michael Johnson
VALEDICTORIAN: Elletson Anna DuBose
SALUTATORIAN: Brooks McEachern Davis
SALUTATORIAN: Andra Cristina Enache
SALUTATORIAN: Hayley Lauren Lightsey
CLASS SIZE: 276
CLASS SIZE: 443
CLASS SIZE: 404
Being part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program has been a positive experience for me because it has challenged me academically. The program also allowed me to build strong relationships with my teachers and classmates and be part of a community of like-minded individuals who carry a passion for learning.”
My AP World History teacher, Mr. Allen Barker, challenged me to think critically and helped me improve my writing skills. Furthermore, by always pushing me to do better, he instilled in me an appreciation for work ethic and determination to succeed.”
The J. L. Mann High Academy Lacrosse program has been a crucial aspect of my education. The lacrosse team gave me a role at my school and a close group of friends before I arrived on campus freshman year.”
MAULDIN HIGH
RIVERSIDE HIGH
SOUTHSIDE HIGH
VALEDICTORIAN: Lindsey O’Neal Skidmore
VALEDICTORIAN: Jeffrey Xiajie Zhou
VALEDICTORIAN: Jocelyn Ruijie Yang
SALUTATORIAN: Kavya Patchipulusu
SALUTATORIAN: Priyanka Heena Shah
SALUTATORIAN: Iris Magdalena Kinnon
CLASS SIZE: 569
CLASS SIZE: 423
CLASS SIZE: 130
Mrs. Bethany Phillips has had the most positive impact on me as a person and on my education through my years of schooling. She was the first teacher to push me and force me to see my potential and I will be forever grateful for the two years I had her as my English teacher.”
The Riverside Speech and Debate program has helped me get out of my bubble and taught me how to communicate and collaborate with my peers more effectively.”
Mr. Nicolas Philipp, Dr. Brian Corbett, Mr. Joseph Paddenburg, Dr. Kelly Howard, Ms. Mary Ford, and Mrs. Brooke Cushwa are just a few of the exceptional teachers who have always pushed me to do my best and excel in school. I cannot thank them enough for all their support and all they’ve done for me.”
TRAVELERS REST HIGH
WADE HAMPTON HIGH
WOODMONT HIGH
VALEDICTORIAN: Derek Maurice Allmond II
VALEDICTORIAN: Abigail Grace Byrd
SALUTATORIAN: Luca Gabriel Marvel
SALUTATORIAN: McIntyre Miles Varga
CLASS SIZE: 247
CLASS SIZE: 401
Cross Country certainly had a positive impact on my education. Going running after school always relieved stress from the day and facilitated good conversations with friends. This allowed me to keep a positive mental state while tackling school work, which consequently helped me learn more efficiently and achieve higher grades.”
I experienced the incredible teaching of the staff at the Fine Arts Center and Wade Hampton High School. While they challenged me, I am blessed to have had the most dedicated and knowledgeable teachers who have shaped me into a critical thinker and a more empathetic individual.”
VALEDICTORIAN: Kara Elizabeth Lindsey CLASS SIZE: 354
Throughout high school, I’ve had many incredible teachers and experiences, in particular, math teacher Mr. Jiles Mitchell has had a positive impact on my life. I have also had a great experience with the art classes at my school, which allowed me to be creative and independent.” CLASS ACTS 2020 GRADUATION EDITION
|
5
CLASS ACTS 2020 GRADUATION EDITION
|
7
Congratulations Graduates!
May your journey forward be filled with exciting adventures, wonderful life experiences, and many successful efforts. Visit jobs.michelinman.com to discover opportunities to launch your career with us!
8 |
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
Copyright Š 2020 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved. The Michelin Man is a registered trademark owned by Michelin North America, Inc.
Congratulations to our Bridges Class of 2020
GO FORTH AND DO GREAT THINGS
ZHARIA ANDERSON
KERRY BLACK
BRITANY BONILLA-MARTINEZ
TAYTUM BRYSON
ISAIAH CARR
SHERRI CASTILLO
Legacy Charter School Spartanburg Methodist College
Southside High School Furman University
Eastside High School Furman University
Travelers Rest High School College decision forthcoming
Berea High School College decision forthcoming
Brashier Middle College Charter High School Greenville Tech
SHEYLA MALDONADO-BARAHONA
JESUS CRUZ
PIXAN MATIAS
ANGEL FERREIRA
OLMIN GARCIA
VICKY LAMARCHE
Eastside High School College decision forthcoming
Berea High School Converse College
Blue Ridge High School College decision forthcoming
Carolina High School College decision forthcoming
Hillcrest High School College decision forthcoming
Wade Hampton High School Greenville Tech
ANDRES OSPINA
KADIE PATTERSON
ALEXIA PORCHER
CARLTON RICHARDSON
ZION ROBINSON
DONIA SORYAL
Greenville Tech Charter High School Furman University
Hillcrest High School College decision forthcoming
Southside High School Claflin University
Greer High School College decision forthcoming
Berea High School Greenville Tech
JL Mann High School Guilford College
SOLOMON TROUPE
DAVID VALENCIA
CORDAZHA WASHINGTON
JUANESHA WILSON
KENDAIJA WITT
SUMMER YOUNG
Wade Hampton High School University of the Arts
Riverside High School College decision forthcoming
Mauldin High School Winthrop University
Greenville Early College Presbyterian College
Mauldin High School USC Upstate
Greenville High School Presbyterian College
BridgesToABrighterFuture.org
10 |
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
2020 In-person Graduations at Bon Secours Wellness Arena Greenville County Schools will host in-person graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2020 at Bon Secours Wellness Arena (BSWA) May 27-June 4, excluding Sunday, May 31. In order to protect the health of all attendees and observe guidance provided by the CDC and the State Department of Education, all graduates will be allowed a maximum of two guests. “We are extremely pleased to expand our partnership with Bon Secours in order to provide our 2020 graduates with the traditional graduation ceremony they have earned and so richly deserve,” said Superintendent Burke Royster. “I am grateful for the input we received from this year’s seniors and their parents, and for the ongoing dialogue with Interhigh Council that enabled us to identify and respond to the graduates’ most pressing priorities. Finding a way to celebrate their accomplishments in-person and in the company of their most honored guests, despite the necessary restrictions that are in place as the result of this pandemic, has been a focus of our work over the past few weeks.” All attendees will be subject to social distancing requirements, in keeping with Governor McMaster’s directives that allow schools districts to hold events with more than 50 people for the purpose of graduation exercises, so long as social distancing is maintained. Intensive cleaning, personal protective equipment, temperature screenings, and other safeguards will be utilized to minimize to the extent possible the opportunities for COVID-19’s spread. To ensure the health and safety of the graduates, school personnel, and guests, the following measures are in effect for this year’s graduations: • Precautions will be taken to observe social distancing, personal protective equipment will be worn, and the venue will be disinfected and sanitized before/after each ceremony. • GCS will provide gloves, masks, and hand sanitizer for all graduates and school personnel that are assisting
with graduation. Students will be required to wear protective equipment until they are seated. • Each ceremony will be live-streamed and recorded for the convenience of those who cannot be in attendance. • Each guest will have an assigned seat. Guest seats for each graduate will be paired together an appropriate distance from other occupied seats. • Seating priority will be based on random/lottery selection. • To maximize floor space and minimize ceremony time and potential exposure, bands and choruses will not perform. • All participants and guests must wear masks and undergo a temperature screening in order to participate. Those with a temperature at or above 100.4 degrees will not be allowed inside of BSWA (this includes graduates, staff, and guests). • There will be no processional, but students will march out in recess. • All participants and guests must enter through appropriate portals and remain in assigned seats unless using the restroom facilities. • Programs will be delivered electronically via backpack and student email, and will be available on school websites prior to graduation day. Graduates are the only individuals who will receive a printed program at the arena. • Graduates and families will not be allowed to congregate within BSWA or on the property outside. Individuals without tickets will not be allowed to enter the Arena property prior to graduation or loiter outside the Arena to greet graduates after the ceremony. • Graduation ceremonies will take place at 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m. to allow ample time for school district personnel to clean and disinfect between events. The order in which schools graduate was determined based on a number of factors, including school size and minimizing potential conflicts with the College Board’s AP makeup/retake exams.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 Fine Arts Center at 9:00 AM THURSDAY, MAY 28 9:00 AM - Southside High School 2:00 PM - Early College Graduation at Carolina High 5:00 PM - Greenville High Academy FRIDAY, MAY 29 9:00 AM - Wade Hampton High School 5:00 PM - JL Mann High Academy SATURDAY, MAY 30 9:00 AM - Riverside High School 5:00 PM - Mauldin High School MONDAY, JUNE, 1 9:00 AM - Blue Ridge High School 5:00 PM - Hillcrest High School TUESDAY, JUNE 2 9:00 AM - Eastside High School 5:00 PM - Greer High School WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3 9:00 AM - Woodmont High School 5:00 PM - Berea High School THURSDAY, JUNE 4 9:00 AM - Travelers Rest High School 5:00 PM - Carolina High and Academy
2020 BOARD OF
TRUSTEES
W. Burke Royster, Ph.D. Superintendent Lynda Leventis-Wells Area 22 – Chairman Lisa Wells Area 28 – Vice Chairman Glenda Morrison-Fair Area 23 – Secretary Debi C. Bush Area 19 Roy Z. Chamlee Area 21 Michelle Goodwin-Calwile Area 25
Joy Grayson Area 17 Derek Lewis Area 24 Roger D. Meek Area 26 Dr. Crystal Ball O’Connor Area 27 Charles J. (Chuck) Saylors Area 20 Pat Sudduth Area 18
301 E. Camperdown Way, Greenville, SC 29601 infoline@greenville.k12.sc.us INFOLine 864-355-3100 | www.greenville.k12.sc.us Follow Us on Social Media @gcschools Watch Us on YouTube.com/gcschools
Bottom row, left to right: Dr. Crystal Ball O’Connor, Lisa Wells, Joy Grayson, Lynda Leventis-Wells, Glenda Morrison-Fair. Back row, left to right: Roger Meek, Roy Chamlee, Debi Bush, Derek Lewis, Chuck Saylors, Michelle Goodwin-Calwile, Pat Sudduth CLASS ACTS 2020 GRADUATION EDITION
|
11
Helping our members prosper since 1968. Here for you then, here for you now.
Our community-based charter allows anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Greenville County to join.
800.336.6309 • www.greenvillefcu.com Š 2020, Greenville Federal Credit Union. All rights reserved. All claims are based on average comparison with other financial institutions. Specific services, rates, and fees may vary. Member NCUA.