CLASS ACTS Celebrating the Class of 2021 GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT Dear Seniors,
We knew the Class of 2020 faced a tough year, but we recognize the Class of 2021 overcame both the shutdown of 2020 and the protocols and restrictions of this school year. These actions impacted your ability to participate in some traditional senior experiences and fully celebrate the end of your K-12 education. Your perseverance through the pandemic and the phasedin return to brick-and-mortar, and your determination in the Virtual Program has been remarkable. You’ve faced the challenges of a socially-distanced senior year with grace and distinction. Color Group schedules, eLearning days, and the GCS Roadmap have characterized the last nine months, and as a group, you followed the many health protocols we established to keep students and staff safe. Whether you chose in-person attendance or the Virtual Program, you quickly adapted to new ways of teaching and learning. I am proud of each of you for rising to the challenge and demonstrating your resilience, perseverance, and adaptability in this year’s ever-changing circumstances in school and in the community. This may be the most challenging experience your generation will face. I commend you for responding to the changes, moving forward with your education, and making the best of these most unusual times. I wish you well as you move into the next phase of your education career. Sincerely,
W. Burke Royster, Ph.D. Superintendent, Greenville County Schools
INSIDE… • Class of 2021 Valedictorians and Salutatorians..................4-5 • Progress Report to the Community...........................................6 • Partner of the Year.......................................................................... 10 • 2021 Graduation Schedule.............................................................11 Supplement to the Greenville Journal | Friday, May 28, 2021
CLASS ACTS 2021 GRADUATION EDITION
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SmartARTS Goals: 1. Training new Greenville SmartARTS Goals:County School teachers each
Congrats GCS Graduates! Congrats GCS Graduates!
What is SmartARTS? SmartARTS Metropolitan Arts Council’s successful arts What isis the SmartARTS?
year in the planning and use of successful arts integration 1. Training new Greenville County School teachers each methods. 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. 2. Pairing SmartARTS teaching artists with teachers and providing support for planning rigorous units. 3. Implementing, documenting and assessing units that are inquiry-based and highly experiential to encourage career3. Implementing, documenting and assessing units that are ready creative problem-solving by students. inquiry-based and highly experiential to encourage careerready creative problem-solving by students.
education initiative that provides Greenville County Schools SmartARTS is the Metropolitan Arts Council’s successful arts with teaching artists, art supplies and arts integration education initiative that provides Greenville County Schools training to facilitate arts-integrated units in the classroom. with teaching artists, art supplies and arts integration training to facilitate arts-integrated units in the classroom. In 2020, SmartARTS partnered with a new CARES Act initiative to serve the children of essential workers. SmartARTS worked In 2020, SmartARTS partnered with a new CARES Act initiative with 10 locations to bring in-person curriculum-based arts to serve the children of essential workers. SmartARTS worked integration learning to impact the academic achievement of with 10 locations to bring in-person curriculum-based arts the children of essential workers when schools were closed. integration learning to impact the academic achievement of SmartARTS teaching artists have the unique ability to use the children of essential workers when schools were closed. the arts to reinforce, extend, and deepen student learning SmartARTS teaching artists have the unique ability to use during a time when many students are falling behind. the arts to reinforce, extend, and deepen student learning during a time when many students are falling behind. SmartARTS is thrilled to be a partner in creating arts-rich schools across Greenville County. SmartARTS is thrilled to be a partner in creating arts-rich schools across Greenville County.
Students engage in a study of bugs through dance and visual arts at a CARES Act day program with SmartARTS artist Kristin LaRoy. Students engage in a study of bugs through dance and visual arts at a CARES Act day program with SmartARTS artist Kristin LaRoy.
Learn more: kimberly@greenvilleARTS.com Learn more:
greenvilleARTS.com/smartARTS kimberly@greenvilleARTS.com greenvilleARTS.com/smartARTS @smartARTSgvl Moody Black gets students excited about reading and writing at a CARES Act day program as part of SmartARTS. Moody Black gets students excited about reading and writing at a CARES Act day program as part of SmartARTS.
@smartARTSgvl
Congratulations Graduates!
May your journey forward be lled with exciting adventures, wonderful life experiences, and many successful efforts. Visit jobs.michelinman.com to discover opportunities to launch your career with us!
Copyright © 2021 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved. The Michelin Man is a registered trademark owned by Michelin North America, Inc.
Congratulations! BEREA HIGH VALEDICTORIAN: Maria Lissette Balderas SALUTATORIAN: Makenzey June Kephart CLASS SIZE: 194
BLUE RIDGE HIGH VALEDICTORIAN: Logan Thomas Bonavia SALUTATORIAN: Isabella Grace Balliew
“Mrs. Jessie Bolton has had a positive impact on my education. As my advisor throughout high school and my AP Environmental Science teacher, I have learned so much from her and she has made me a better student.”
ENOREE CAREER CENTER
“Mr. Paul Garrigan helped me understand the fundamentals of math more than anyone, and he always encouraged and motivated me to do my best.”
FINE ARTS CENTER
CLASS SIZE: 252
CAROLINA HIGH & ACADEMY VALEDICTORIAN: Kayla Miranda Richard SALUTATORIAN: Katelyn Grace Boiter
HONOR STUDENT: Campbell Thomas Altman CTE COMPLETERS: 78
EASTSIDE HIGH VALEDICTORIAN: Mary Ellison Joye SALUTATORIAN: Carson Scott Mozingo CLASS SIZE: 364 4 |
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
CTE COMPLETERS: 102
HONOR STUDENT: Luisa Peñaflor
“Mrs. Sarah Blackman, my creative writing teacher, went out of her way to help me with my writing. She has been an incredibly supportive and encouraging presence.”
CLASS SIZE: 114 “The hands-on experience I received from the Graphics Program at Enoree Career Center showed me how I could make a career from it. Because of that, I can confidently work toward entering that field.”
CLASS SIZE: 152
DONALDSON CAREER CENTER
HONOR STUDENT: Malaijah Raejene Williams
“Mrs. Patty Stewart, my art teacher, encouraged me to be the best I could be and push down the barriers I had with my art. She cared about her students, often asking how we were feeling and giving us great advice.”
GOLDEN STRIP CAREER CENTER HONOR STUDENT: Sarah Emily Weaver CTE COMPLETERS: 108
“The last two years spent with Firefighting Instructor Chief Bryan Reibe have been the best. Chief Reibe gave me a push when I needed it and is a terrific role model whom I know is always ‘in my corner.’”
GREENVILLE SR. HIGH VALEDICTORIAN: Claire Louise Smith SALUTATORIAN: Allison Katherine Phelps CLASS SIZE: 317
“The orchestra program has had a positive impact on my life because it allowed me to express myself through music. Mrs. Audrey Bass created a lively and supportive atmosphere where orchestra felt like family.”
GREER HIGH VALEDICTORIAN: Jesalyn Sage Vinkemulder SALUTATORIAN: Hannah Reagan Smith CLASS SIZE: 255
“Chef Elijah Edwards pushed me to be my best both academically and professionally. He was always there reminding me to take a break when I push myself too hard, and he was a mentor to me as well.” “The encouraging nature of my orchestra teacher and classmates pushed me outside my comfort zone and widened my experiences by participating in the region orchestra and performing a solo for the spring concert.”
Mrs. Merri Hash taught me to do my best work even when it was not easy, to dig deeper into my assignments, and to pay attention to the little things in school and in life.”
2021 CLASS ACTS HILLCREST HIGH VALEDICTORIAN: Graci Elise Gotchy SALUTATORIAN: Ryan Cole Meyer
“Mrs. Kristin Hallman and Mrs. Amy Gahagan helped me start Students for Animals and the Environment. This club allowed me to intensify my desire to pursue a career in veterinary science.”
CLASS SIZE: 465
J. HARLEY BONDS CAREER CENTER HONOR STUDENT: Stefania Sepulveda
VALEDICTORIAN: James Walter Moon, V SALUTATORIAN: Mahika Jammula CLASS SIZE: 540
MAULDIN HIGH VALEDICTORIAN: Arianna Grace Simon SALUTATORIAN: Matthew Robert Rundle CLASS SIZE: 580
RIVERSIDE HIGH VALEDICTORIAN: Brian Yoon SALUTATORIAN: Alvin Jin Hong CLASS SIZE: 403
VALEDICTORIAN: Molly Elizabeth McHenry SALUTATORIAN: Jason Lizong Yao CLASS SIZE: 149
“The Esthetics Program has had a positive impact because it allowed me to achieve an Esthetics license that will help me build a career. The staff helped me find an internship to pursue my dreams.”
CTE COMPLETERS: 140
J. L. MANN HIGH ACADEMY
SOUTHSIDE HIGH
TRAVELERS REST HIGH VALEDICTORIAN: Zachary Charles Verdin SALUTATORIAN: Elias Smith Verdin CLASS SIZE: 259
“Mr. Hunter Ballenger, my AP Human Geography teacher, inspired me because of his unique method of teaching and entertaining. He was also my sponsor for Student Council and taught me the value of community service.”
WADE HAMPTON HIGH
“I took Personal Finance with Mr. Joel Leine my sophomore year, which made me realize my passion for business. I joined the Investment Club and DECA to learn more about business, which I will continue to study in college.”
WOODMONT HIGH
“Mrs. Allison Mayernik was a joy to learn from because of her dedication to teaching. She independently located online sources about the subject the class was studying, and she tutored struggling students on Zoom.”
VALEDICTORIAN: Christine Wu SALUTATORIAN: Caitlin Brooke O’Hare CLASS SIZE: 400
VALEDICTORIAN: Claire Alise Runyan SALUTATORIAN: Samantha Faris Omar CLASS SIZE: 395
“Mrs. Toni Warren, affectionately known as Mama Toni, has always made Southside a welcoming place. Whether with her warm greetings in the morning or interest in my achievements, I will always remember her kindness.” “My IB History teacher, Mrs. Tiffany Lanier, has been an inspiration to me since freshman year in her government/economics class. She is the type of teacher that makes you believe you can do anything you put your mind to.” “My counselor, Mrs. Kimberly Brown, went above and beyond in aiding me with the college application process, while helping me identify future aspirations and overcome challenges as a first-generation, soon-to-be college student.” “The IB Diploma Program has challenged me more than any other school experience. I have learned so much about managing my time wisely on large projects that have been the most interesting projects I have ever done.”
“Graduation is like a bridge to the next part of your life, and everything that got you here – hard work, drive and confidence – is going to carry you across to the future you deserve.” – UNKNOWN
CLASS ACTS 2021 GRADUATION EDITION
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GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
Students
STUDENT POPULATION
SAT
ACT
inspired, supp
73,897 2,545 3,130 VIRTUAL 1038 19.8 22,500 18.1 GCS TEST TAKERS
GCS TEST TAKERS
GCS AVERAGE SCORE
GCS AVERAGE SCORE
Above State average of
2019-20
2020-21
NATIONAL RANKING
45
th
LARGEST district in US 2020-21
Above State
2019-20
ADVANCED PLACEMENT
4,7803-5 4,427 64
6 |
STU D
ENT
S
PASSAGE
INO /LA T PAN IC
82%
STUDENTS tested
HIS
S ENT STU D ALL
86.1%
PRO FIC LIMI IEN TED CY EN STU GL DEN ISH TS
TESTS SCORED
GCS GRADUATION RATE
1019 & Nation 1030
81%
Graduation Rate in 2020
Graduation Rate in 2020
Graduation Rate in 2020
13.7-point increase since 2012
23-point increase since 2012
14-point increase since 2012
CONTACT INFORMATION 864.355.3100 greenville.k12.sc.us Email infoline@greenv
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
pported, and prepared for their next opportunities in life, education, and employment SCHOLARSHIP TOTALS
DUAL-CREDIT HOURS
6,535
152
$
DUAL-CREDIT HOURS earned in 2019-20
MILLION Class of 2020
858
14,628
332
for ALL STUDENTS in grades 4K-12
Graduation Rate in 2020
18-point increase since 2012
8-point increase since 2012
ENT
SW ITH
DIS ABI LIT
IES
2020-21
STU D
Graduation Rate in 2020
STUDENTS Class of 2020
CHROMEBOOKS
CERTIFICATIONS in 2020
77%
RATE
Internships, Co-ops, Apprenticeships
STUDENTS earned
ENT SUBS QUA SID LIFY IZE ING D M FO EAL R S
80%
91
% SUCCESS
WORK-BASED LEARNING
3,607
potential COLLEGE CREDIT HOURS earned in 2020
AFR ICA N-A ME RIC AN STU DEN TS
E RATE
INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS
STU D
4
%
2,401
STUDENTS took at least one course
61%
Graduation Rate in 2020 28-point increase since 2012
ville.k12.sc.us Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter & Instagram @gcschools
CLASS ACTS 2021 GRADUATION EDITION
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to our Bridges Class of 2021
GO FORTH AND DO GREAT THINGS
LANA ABUNIJEM
KARA DIAZ
MYLES DILLARD
WARREN EDWARDS
JENNIFER WHITAKER
SANIAH GARNETT
Greenville Technical Charter High University of South Carolina
Hillcrest High University of South Carolina Honors College
Carolina High The Citadel
Blue Ridge High Decision Forthcoming
Carolina High Greenville Technical College
Greenville Early College Greenville Technical College
JAE’LYN GOWENS
THOMAS HICKS
ALEJANDRO JARAMILLO
SERGER JIMENEZ-SANCHEZ
DAVID JONES
MAKENZEY KEPHART
Carolina High Furman University
Greer High College of Charleston
Legacy Early College Clemson University
JL Mann High Converse College
Southside High Furman University
Berea High Wesleyan University
ALLEN KURIA
JOSE MARIN-BOYZO
JE’NA MARTIN
JHANTAYSIA MCDOWELL
SAMIRA MOORE
STEPHANIE PASTOR
Green Middle College Charter High Clemson University
Woodmont High Military
Greenville Early College South Carolina State University
Greer High Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology
Mauldin High Furman University
Southside High Greenville Technical College
NA’TRAVIS SHUMATE
SAKYRIO STEWART
MAKAYLA SUBER
JASMIN VIDAL-JOSE
CALEB WATERS
GABRIEL WILSON
Woodmont High Tri County Technical College Bridge to Clemson University
Legacy Early College Spartanburg Methodist College
Wade Hampton High Berea College
Greenville High Furman University
Greer High The Citadel
Berea High Davidson College
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 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
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 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/)
*
Empowering individuals. Changing lives. Reshaping communities. www.gvltec.edu
In 2013, United Way of Greenville County and Greenville County Schools came together to form OnTrack Greenville, a premier middle school and high school initiative focused on ensuring that students stay on track to high school graduation and post-secondary success. During the pandemic, United Way was one of the first agencies to reach out to offer assistance. The Greenville County Resource Line gave families access to important resources like food and financial assistance. United Way also partnered with Food and Nutrition Services to provide meals for families, and it was the driving force behind free Wi-Fi hotspots so students could access their classes at home. 10 |
Congratulations!
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
United Way of Greenville County | Greenville County Schools 2021 Partner of the Year
Graduation SCHEDULE MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021 Fine Arts Center Senior Recognition 7:00 PM – Greer High Gymnasium
TUESDAY, JUNE 1, 2021 Greer High – 8:00 AM
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Greenville High – 11:30 AM
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Blue Ridge High – 2:30 PM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
J. L. Mann High – 5:30 PM
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 2, 2021 Berea High – 8:00 AM
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Eastside High – 11:30 AM
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Travelers Rest High – 2:30 PM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Riverside High – 5:30 PM
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 2021 W. Burke Royster, Ph.D. Superintendent
Southside High – 8:00 AM
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Wade Hampton High – 11:30 AM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Lynda Leventis-Wells Area 22 – Chairman
Sarah Dulin Area 27
Angie Mosley Area 21
Hillcrest High – 3:00 PM
Lisa Wells Area 28 – Vice Chairman
Michelle Goodwin-Calwile Area 25
Charles J. (Chuck) Saylors Area 20
Lifelong Learning – 6:30 PM
Derek Lewis Area 24 – Secretary
Roger D. Meek Area 26
Dr. Carolyn Styles Area 17
FRIDAY, JUNE 4, 2021
Debi C. Bush Area 19
Glenda Morrison-Fair Area 23
Pat Sudduth Area 18
Bon Secours Wellness Arena Wade Hampton High
Carolina High – 8:00 AM
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Woodmont High – 11:30 AM 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
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Greenville Early College – 2:00 PM Younts Center Furman
Mauldin High – 4:00 PM
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
CLASS ACTS 2021 GRADUATION EDITION
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