Class Acts Greenville County Schools Celebrates the Class of 2017
MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT Dear Families, I am extremely pleased that Greenville County Schools will soon be sending more than 4,000 graduates into the world as they begin the next phase of their lives. Many graduates will enter local, state, and national colleges and universities that will lead them on the path to future careers. Others will graduate with career-ready skills and certifications that make them valuable candidates for high-paying jobs in the local workforce. Still others will proudly serve our country in various branches of the military.
INSIDE… • Class of 2017 Valedictorians • 2016-17 Progress Report • 2017 Graduation Schedule • School Board of Trustees
Our students’ accomplishments speak for themselves. The GCS graduation rate has reached an all-time high of 86.8 percent, an increase of 20 percent since 2012. We exceed the national average on the SAT, and our college-bound students’ scores on the ACT outpace the state and nation. We are preparing career-ready graduates with the awarding of nearly 500 industry certifications. One thing is certain. The more I am around our young people, the more I see in them the desire to make our community and our world a much better place. Their accomplishments, including earning high GPAs, garnering career certifications, and showcasing success in athletics and extracurricular activities, clearly indicate they are already realizing their potential. I congratulate the Class of 2017 on all of their accomplishments, and wish them well as they continue on the next steps of their journeys. Sincerely,
W. Burke Royster, Ph.D. Superintendent, Greenville County Schools
Supplement to the Greenville Journal • Friday, May 26, 2017 • Greenville County Schools
Congratulations Graduates! Need Space? We Got You Covered!
YOUR SECURE STORAGE EXPERTS Our multi-layer, state-of-the-art, indoor storage facility features amenities not found at other storage providers. Customers can rent storage spaces from the size of a small locker up to a large 10x 30 unit. If you’re not sure which size unit you need, friendly associates are always happy to speak with you if you need advice.
• Between The Sterling School and the South Pleasantburg Publix • Guaranteed rental rate for twelve months • State-of-the art security with over fifty-eight monitored cameras • Electronic keypads for multi-layer access controls • Humidity control with dehumidifiers on every floor • U-Haul van rental for your local move • Free package acceptance and delivery to your unit • Conference room that clients can use with free internet access • 10% discount to Senior Citizens, Teachers, Police, Fire and Military Personnel
305 McAlister Rd, Greenville, SC 29607 • 864-240-5494 • www.storagefacilitygreenvillesc.com 2
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
Class Acts
Congratulations Class of 2017! Berea High
Blue Ridge High VALEDICTORIAN: Alberto Palomo-Sanchez
VALEDICTORIAN: Isabel Marie Greene
SALUTATORIAN: Christina Joy Rafferty
SALUTATORIAN: Riley Edith Swindell
CLASS SIZE: 205
CLASS SIZE: 238
“Throughout my educational experience, one of my high school English teachers, Mrs. Cynthia Tisdale, always served as a loving mentor. She pushed me to improve myself in every way. She constantly offered me a challenge, making me use my abilities to maximize my potential.”
“The Future Business Leaders of America Club has had a positive impact on my education because it has allowed me the chance to compete at the state level. State conferences allow me to meet new people and have fun with my chapter and advisor, Mrs. Stephanie Collins.” - Isabel Marie Greene
– Alberto Palomo-Sanchez
Carolina High and Academy VALEDICTORIAN: Andy Dat Le SALUTATORIAN: Matilyn Nicole Stoneman CLASS SIZE: 165
Eastside High VALEDICTORIAN: Davis Wesley Crews SALUTATORIAN: Anna Leigh Fox CLASS SIZE: 374
“Carolina High School and Academy’s engineering program has had the most positive impact on my education. The program has provided me with an opportunity to begin studying and learning about my future college major.” - Andy Dat Le
“Serving on student government has taught me valuable lessons. Being part of executing four Spirit Weeks, I know what can be accomplished by working together for a common goal. Academics have often been a singular endeavor, but collaborative efforts of varied skills achieve more.” – Davis Wesley Crews CLASS ACTS GRADUATION EDITION
3
Greenville Sr. High Academy
Greer High
VALEDICTORIAN: Adam Edward Enggasser
VALEDICTORIAN: Taylor Alexis McIntyre
SALUTATORIAN: Samuel Douglas McDonald
SALUTATORIAN: Kaleb David Hood
CLASS SIZE: 297
CLASS SIZE: 249
“Mr. Brett Fleming has had a significant, positive effect on my high school education. He taught with a new level of enthusiasm that I had never experienced before, always telling stories about how what we were learning applied to the natural world. His enthusiasm and energy were contagious and he encouraged students to delve further into biology on our own time.” - Adam Edward Enggasser
“In addition to taking every effort to ensure my understanding of history and how to solve the problems that I face, Mrs. Tabitha Pruitt and her mentorship have had the greatest impact on my decision to become a teacher.”
Hillcrest High
J. L. Mann High Academy
– Taylor Alexis McIntyre
VALEDICTORIAN: Katie Lynne Mader
VALEDICTORIAN: Megan Caroline Keech
SALUTATORIAN: Alexander Kenneth Morrison
SALUTATORIAN: Katherine Elizabeth All
CLASS SIZE: 448
CLASS SIZE: 386
“As the Editor-in-Chief for my school’s yearbook, not only was I able to apply skills learned from my academic classes, but I was also able to apply key components needed for real-life projects. These included marketing, communication, teamwork, delegation, leadership, creativity, and most importantly, passion.” – Katie Lynne Mader
“One of the most influential teachers in my high school career has been my physics teacher, Mrs. Anna Hanor. Her passion for the subject and genuine desire to share her knowledge with students ignited my love for physics. She inspired me to pursue a degree in biomedical engineering, which will allow me to combine my desire to work in the medical field with my love of physics.” – Megan Caroline Keech
Mauldin High VALEDICTORIAN: Christopher Weldon Gantt SALUTATORIAN: Sara Anne Taylor CLASS SIZE: 550 “Mrs. Nikki Smith has had a positive impact on me as my math teacher for three years by confirming my interest in math, which helped me choose engineering as my major.” – Christopher Weldon Gantt 4
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
Riverside High
Southside High Academy
VALEDICTORIAN: Maegan Lee Rudolph
VALEDICTORIAN: Annabelle Ruisi Yang
SALUTATORIAN: Unshu Kumar Biyani
SALUTATORIAN: Cathy Lu Chi
CLASS SIZE: 383
CLASS SIZE: 155
“Ms. Robin Chandler, my calculus teacher, has the invaluable ability to incorporate enjoyable activities into the stressful course. We have made music videos about calculus topics which were simultaneously entertaining and educational. Being in Ms. Chandler’s class has allowed me to develop a love for calculus and for math as a whole.” – Maegan Lee Rudolph
“Southside High’s International Baccalaureate Program has introduced me to exceptional peers with similar interests and a rigorous workload. My teachers have had a great influence on me. In particular, I thank Dr. Brian Corbett, Dr. Steven Presgraves, and Mrs. Jamie Blount for teaching me so much and believing in me.”
Travelers Rest High
Wade Hampton High
– Annabelle Ruisi Yang
VALEDICTORIAN: Taylor Alise Summey
VALEDICTORIAN: Catherine Elena Garcia
SALUTATORIAN: Isabella Rose Childers
SALUTATORIAN: Maria Locke Sellers
CLASS SIZE: 254
CLASS SIZE: 391
“For the past two years, I have participated in the International Baccalaureate Program. IB has expanded my world view greatly and because of my participation in IB, I am well-prepared for college.” – Taylor Alise Summey
“My history teacher, Mr. Justus Serina, has been very influential in shaping my academic career and interests. He encouraged me to join the Quiz Bowl Team, an organization in which I have been active for the past three years. His classes shaped my love for the study of history.” – Catherine Elena Garcia
Woodmont High VALEDICTORIAN: Colt Ryan Griffith SALUTATORIAN: Jonathan Alexander Dixon CLASS SIZE: 365 “The Woodmont High cross country team has provided camaraderie with friends and support from coaches, both of which encouraged me to build a strong work ethic. I attribute the majority of my success in the classroom to the work ethic built on the track with the support of the team.” – Colt Ryan Griffith CLASS ACTS GRADUATION EDITION
5
Greenville County Schools|Strategic Education Plan
Achievement
Raise the academic challenge and performance of each student.
https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/ hphotos-ash3/t1/1235519_1015162 7171831034_1879802976_n.jpg
People
Ensure quality personnel in all positions.
The Class of 2016 received
$121.7
Get to know us! For a closer look inside Greenville County Schools, scan the QR Code to view the complete 2017 Progress Report.
million in college scholarship offers.
Graduation Rate GCS graduation rate continues to improve, with 86.8% of students graduating in four years.
72.4%
Building a Better Graduate
2011-12
2015-16
College Entrance Tests
Percentage Scoring Met/Exemplary
*State-mandated for all Juniors
the State at all Grade Levels
89.7
%
of Students Earned
BRONZE or Higher
GCS
Nation
SC
employees
5,323 Years 12.4 Average of Experience
GCS is
exceeds the state (18.5) average. Our students’ SAT scores are higher than state and nation.
1453
ACT WorkKeys (Grade 11)
2016
1483
2015
10,095 teachers
Our students’ ACT Score of
1446
1,977
Exceeds
Seniors Taking the ACT
4,909*
Palmetto Assessment of State Standards (SCPASS) (Grades 4-8)
Comprehensive 4K-12th grade program providing opportunities for students to finish high school ready for college and careers.
SCREADY (Grades 3-8) Percentage of GCS Students Scoring
Meets or Exceeds Expectations is
HIGHER
than SC Students at All Grade Levels.
13
th
out of
14,000 districts nationwide for number of
National Board Certified Teachers.
Provide a school environment supportive of learning.
101
schools & centers
93.8
%
Resources
Effectively manage and further develop necessary financial resources.
Chromebooks for every student in grades 3-12 over the next 3 years
LOW
Administrative Cost of Just Over
1.5 cents
maximizes funding for instruction and support of students.
$575.9 Million General Fund
13
Program
of Students Attend a GCS School on Choice.
to our Volunteer Greenville Hours County Graduates! 34,500+ 1,030,795
our
Facebook Page
increase in
1 Year
65.4%
15.8%
7.6%
Classroom Instruction
Operations & Maintenance
Admin./ Schools
7.1%
3.6%
0.5%
Auxiliary Support
Other
Admin./ District
13,800+ Twitter Followers 7,600+
Instagram followers
Connect Visit 301 E. Camperdown Way, Greenville, SC Call 864-355-3100 Website greenville.k12.sc.us Email infoline@greenville.k12.sc.us
School Construction The Long Range Facilities Plan projects future school construction needs. A computerized system develops optimal maintenance schedules.
School Choice
2015-16
Expenditures
12.4
Improve public understanding and support of public schools.
Congrats & Best Wishes
State’s Largest
per dollar
Personalized Learning
Engagement
33%
Environment
GCS received the highest credit ratings possible for SC school districts:
A-1+ by Standard & Poors and Aa1 by Moody’s.
3.1
Million
visitors to GCS website.
Like Us On Facebook Follow Us on Twitter & Instagram @gcschools
Watch The Schools Channel Charter 190 & UVerse 99
ENRICHING EXPERIENCES
BEYOND THE STAGE
Engaging, Empowering, and Educating through the Arts
TAKE THE STAGE
PLAY WITH THE PROS
TELL YOUR STORY
Looking for the perfect summer camp for a budding young actor? Over the course of five, fun-filled days, Camp Broadway (ages 11 - 16) teaches voice, dance, and acting for a true Broadway experience! Registration is still open for the July 10-14 session.
Open to talented amateurs, accomplished musicians, and everyone in between, the Peace Chamber Summer Workshop (high school graduates - adults) allows musicians to work with professional visiting artists in an authentic chamber setting. Running July 20-23, participants gain invaluable experience and even perform for family and friends in a final showcase!
Learn about poetry through FREE Peace Voices workshops, master classes, and professional readings, led by Poet-in-Residence Glenis Redmond. Register this summer for a Teen Workshop and Poetry Slam (June 3) or the Adult Poetry Workshop series (May 23-June 6).
Can’t make it to camp this year? Keep a lookout for Broadway, voice, and dance master classes held throughout the year!
Interested in seeing professional chamber performances? The 2017-2018 Peace Chamber Concert Series was just announced, and subscriptions are available now!
Need more poetic outlets? Visit peacecenter.org/peacevoices to learn about free readings and educational opportunities as they are announced throughout the year.
LEARN MORE, REGISTER, AND GET INVOLVED AT
8
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS
peacecenter.org/community-engagement 864.467.3000
Graduation Schedule Berea High
Greer High
Southside High Academy
Blue Ridge High
Hillcrest High
Travelers Rest High
Carolina High and Academy
J. L. Mann High Academy
Wade Hampton High
Eastside High
Mauldin High
Woodmont High
Greenville Sr. High Academy
Riverside High
Thursday, June 1 – 2:00 PM Timmons Arena
Friday, June 2 – 2:00 PM Timmons Arena
Wednesday, May 31 – 10:00 AM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Thursday, June 1 – 2:00 PM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Wednesday, May 31 – 6:00 PM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Wednesday, May 31 – 2:00 PM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Thursday, June 1 – 6:00 PM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Friday, June 2 – 2:00 PM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Thursday, June 1 – 7:00 PM Timmons Arena
Friday, June 2 – 10:00 AM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Friday, June 2 – 9:00 AM Timmons Arena
Thursday, June 1 – 9:00 AM Timmons Arena
Friday, June 2 – 7:00 PM Timmons Arena
Thursday, June 1 – 10:00 AM Bon Secours Wellness Arena
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOLS W. Burke Royster, Ph.D. Superintendent
• K-12 Students: 76,951 (Nation’s 44th Largest and State’s Largest District) • The all-time high graduation rate of 86.8% has increased 20% since 2012. • The Class of 2016 earned $121.7 million in college scholarship offers.
301 E. Camperdown Way Greenville, SC 29601 www.greenville.k12.sc.us INFOLine: 864-355-3100 infoline@greenville.k12.sc.us LIKE US Facebook.com/gcschools FOLLOW US Twitter.com/gcschools WATCH US Youtube.com/gcschools THE SCHOOLS CHANNEL Charter 190; AT&T U-verse 99 CLASS ACTS GRADUATION EDITION
9
CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATING CLASS OF 2017!
912 LAURENS ROAD, GREENVILLE
|
864.271.9131
Board of Trustees Dr. Crystal Ball O’Connor Area 27 - Chairman Debi C. Bush Area 19 – Vice Chairman Lynda Leventis-Wells Area 22 - Secretary Michelle Goodwin-Calwile Area 25 Joy Grayson Area 17 Derek Lewis Area 24 Roger D. Meek Area 26 Glenda Morrison-Fair Area 23 Danna Rohleder Area 21 Charles J. “Chuck” Saylors Area 20 Pat Sudduth Area 18 Lisa H. Wells Area 28
Programs and policies of Greenville County Schools are set by a 12-member, publicly elected Board of Trustees. Board members are elected to four-year terms. Regular Board meeting are held the fourth Tuesday of each month (except July) and the trustees meet as a Committee of the Whole the second Tuesday of each month (except July). The day-to-day administration is the responsibility of the superintendent, who is appointed by the School Board. Seated, left to right: Joy Grayson, Lisa H. Wells, Lynda Leventis-Wells, Glenda Morrison-Fair. Standing, left to right: Roger D. Meek, Debi C. Bush, Dr. Crystal Ball O’Connor, Danna Rohleder, Derek Lewis, Michelle Goodwin-Calwile, Patrick L. Sudduth, Charles J. (Chuck) Saylors.
Chase your dreams. Burst out at the seams. Never stop trying. Never stop learning. Live life to the fullest and give it nothing but your best. Congratulations to the Class of 2017!
THANK YOU FOR ALLOWING US TO BE YOUR TEAM SOURCE FOR UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT. 2520 Wade Hampton Blvd., Greenville | 864.268.6227 | Mon. - Fri. 9am-6pm; Sat. 9am-1pm CLASS ACTS GRADUATION EDITION
11
Lower rates. Longer terms. Better options. NEW RATE
1.99
AS LOW AS
%
APR*
60 MONTHS LIMITED TIME OFFER
Use this incredible 60-month rate this spring when you finance your next vehicle. Greenville
3375 Pelham Road Greenville, SC 29615 864.371.6060
Greenville
1501 Wade Hampton Blvd. Greenville, SC 29609 864.235.6309
Greer
107 W. Church St. Greer, SC 29650 864.877.9089
Mauldin
142 Tanner Rd. Greenville, SC 29607 864.676.9066
Get a vehicle loan rate as low as 1.99% APR for 60 months on new, pre-owned, and refinanced vehicles with less than 30,000 miles and less than two years old. This is the lowest 60-month rate we’ve ever offered! Lower rates with shorter terms are also available, and we can beat other lenders’ rates by a quarter percent+. Ask us how. Low rates and longer terms can mean a better car for lower payments. What are you waiting for?
Apply online at www.greenvillefcu.com or visit any branch to get started. Our community-based charter allows anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Greenville County to join.
800.336.6309 greenvillefcu.com
Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government
NCUA
National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency
*Annual Percentage Rate is based on a 60-month term. Your loan rate and term amount may vary depending on individual credit history and underwriting factors. Minimum loan amount for this offer is $5,000. A 60-month loan with 1.99% APR would have monthly payments of $17.53 per thousand borrowed. +Excluding auto manufacturer and captive finance company 0% rate offers; rate floor is 1.74%, offer excludes current loans held by Greenville Federal Credit Union. Offer good from April 1 through July 15, 2017. ©2017, Greenville Federal Credit Union. All rights reserved. Member NCUA.