The Orangeburg County School District proudly celebrated the graduation of 33 students from Cohort 2 of the Orangeburg Advance College (OAC) program during a commencement ceremony held Tuesday afternoon at South Carolina State University. Each graduate earned an Associate of Arts degree while simultaneously completing the requirements for a high school diploma, demonstrating exceptional dedication, perseverance, and academic excellence.

The Orangeburg Advance College program, a partnership between OCSD and Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College, provides students with the opportunity to accelerate their academic pathways while gaining valuable college experience. Many OAC students contributed to the more than $20 million in scholarships and awards earned by the OCSD Class of 2026 Senior Scholars, and 98% of Cohort 2 graduates have already been accepted into colleges and universities.

“This is truly a monumental accomplishment,” said Robert M. Hemby, II, Director of CTE, OAC, and Early College. OCSD Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster added that the program reflects the district’s commitment to creating meaningful pathways that prepare students for future success. As the second graduating cohort, these scholars continue to establish the Orangeburg Advance College program as a transformative opportunity for students across the district.

Malachi Jean, Aden Foster, and Duane Butler were recognized at the South Carolina State House for earning 1st Place in the National Leadership & SkillsUSA Competition for Middle School Chapter Display!

Also recognized was Imani Jean, a back-to-back National and State Beta Club Speech Champion and author!

Edisto High School seniors Makye Ballen and Saquan Johnson are taking their talents to Talladega College, becoming part of history as members of the institution’s first-ever football program. Their signing marks an exciting new chapter as they continue their academic and athletic journeys at the collegiate level.

Congratulations also to North Middle/High School baseball standout Josiah Jackson on signing to play at the next level with Denmark Technical College. OCSD is proud of these student-athletes and looks forward to all they will accomplish in the future.

The Orangeburg County School District proudly honored students in the top 10% of the Class of 2026 during the annual Senior Scholar Celebration held at the Orangeburg County Library & Conference Center. The event recognized academic excellence and Orangeburg Advanced College (OAC) completers, with students collectively earning more than $20 million in scholarship funds. The evening featured musical selections by the Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School Jazz Ensemble, scholar presentations from each high school, and an inspiring message from guest speaker and Orangeburg native Councilman Jordan Hawkins.

District leaders praised the students for their accomplishments and the bright futures ahead of them. “I am extremely proud of our students. To see them earn millions of dollars in scholarships shows that there is truly no limit to their success or where they can go next,” said Dr. Bernard E. Frost, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. OCSD Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster added that the achievement reflects not only the dedication of students, but also the support of families, educators, and the Orangeburg community.

Students recognized during the celebration represented Bethune-Bowman, Branchville, Edisto, Hunter-Kinard-Tyler, Lake Marion, North, and Orangeburg-Wilkinson High Schools. In addition to academic excellence, many scholars demonstrated leadership through athletics, student organizations, National Honor Society, and community service, continuing OCSD’s commitment to developing well-rounded graduates prepared for success beyond high school.

The OCSD Student Advisory Roundtable held its final meeting of the year yesterday, closing out the program with both reflection and meaningful action. While the gathering included thoughtful peer discussions, it also served as an opportunity for students to give back to their school community in a powerful and impactful way.

During the meeting, students came together to pack and donate approximately 250 snack and meal bags for the Filling Station, an initiative that supports students and families in need. Their efforts demonstrated not only teamwork, but a deep sense of compassion and responsibility for others. This service project was made possible in part by a generous $200 donation from Walmart Neighborhood Market Orangeburg. The contribution allowed students to purchase essential items and expand the reach of their efforts.

OCSD is proud of the Student Advisory Roundtable members for their leadership and commitment to making a difference. Their actions served as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on the community.

Graduating seniors and select juniors participated in the HIRE Summit, where they connected with employers from across the state ready to hire emerging talent.

From sharing resumes to engaging in on-the-spot interviews, students gained valuable experience in a dynamic, job fair-style environment!

Orangeburg County School District proudly celebrated several outstanding student-athletes who signed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level.

From North Middle/High School, Ashton Jamison signed to play basketball at Denmark Technical College, marking an exciting next step in his journey on and off the court.

Lake Marion High School also recognized four student-athletes for their achievements: Dewaine Shivers signed with Winston-Salem State University for football, Breion Shivers signed with South Carolina Central Christian College for basketball, Zimarika Moorer signed with Spartanburg Methodist College for basketball, and Torington White signed with Anderson University, Indiana for football.

At Bethune-Bowman Middle-High School, Terrance McFadden signed to play basketball at Denmark Tech, while Justin Holmes, Ce'John Evans, and Jahmiere Cryer signed to play football at South Carolina Central Christian College.

These signings reflect the dedication, perseverance, and talent of OCSD students. The district celebrates their accomplishments and looks forward to their continued success at the next level.

Students from our elementary and middle schools proudly participated in the University of South Carolina Regional Science Fair, where they showcased their research and shared their insights with judges. Participants will be notified in May if they placed. Experiences like this give our students the opportunity to explore their talents, spark curiosity, and grow their passion for discovery.

Orangeburg County School District is proud to announce the winners of our inaugural Master of Mechanics Secondary Writing Competition! These students demonstrated creativity, courage, and exceptional writing skills as they shared their voices and stories with the school community.

6th Grade Winners

• 3rd Place: Joshua Myers, Carver-Edisto
• 2nd Place: Maliyah Butterfield, North
• 1st Place: Kimberly Parker, Lake Marion

7th Grade Winners

• 3rd Place: Jaliyah Isaac, Hunter-Kinard-Tyler
• 2nd Place: Skylar Byrd, William J. Clark
• 1st Place: Logan Carson, Bethune-Bowman

8th Grade Winners

• 3rd Place: Jayden Clarke, Hunter-Kinard-Tyler
• 2nd Place: Sofia Krupa, Carver-Edisto
• 1st Place: Zion Wright, Bethune-Bowman

9th Grade Winners

• 3rd Place: Doron Stephens, Bethune-Bowman
• 2nd Place: De’Azia Corley, Edisto
• 1st Place: Jasmine Popo Salgado

10th Grade Winners

• 3rd Place: Erin Adgerson, Lake Marion
• 2nd Place: Shaylen Byrd, North
• 1st Place: Belinda Salas Morales, Bethune-Bowman

11th Grade Winners

• 3rd Place: Michelle Hernandez, Edisto
• 2nd Place: Maya Haynes, Orangeburg-Wilkinson
• 1st Place: Ryan Cannon, Bethune-Bowman

12th Grade Winners

• 3rd Place: Aidyn Gaffney, Orangeburg-Wilkinson
• 2nd Place: Ja’Khyri Banks-White, Lake Marion
• 1st Place: Skye Lightfoot, Bethune-Bowman

We thank all of these outstanding students for their bravery in sharing their written stories. Your voices matter, and we are incredibly proud of each of you for contributing to a culture of creativity, expression, and excellence in Orangeburg County Schools.

The Ladies of Bliss Dance Program at Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School would like to warmly invite your students to attend our upcoming Disneyland Dance Production on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM.This exciting production will feature our talented dance students performing routines inspired by beloved Disney stories and songs that young audiences know and love. Our performance will include music and choreography inspired by:

• The Princess and the Frog

• Aladdin

• Beauty and the Beast

• Moana

• Let It Shine

• And many more magical favorites!

Through music, storytelling, and creative movement, our dancers will bring these stories to life on stage in a fun and engaging performance designed especially for young students.

Orangeburg County School District joined communities around the world in recognizing World Autism Awareness Day, a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the unique strengths of individuals with autism while promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion across all schools.

Throughout the district, students and staff participated in “Light It Up Blue,” wearing blue to show their support and commitment to creating inclusive environments where every child feels valued and supported. Classrooms engaged in conversations and activities designed to increase awareness and foster empathy, reinforcing the district’s mission to serve every learner.

Dr. Liana Calloway, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services, emphasized the importance of recognizing and representing this day across the district.

“Awareness is where understanding begins, but acceptance is where inclusion truly grows. By recognizing and embracing differences like Autism Spectrum Disorder, our school district becomes a place where every student is valued, supported, and empowered to shine.” said Dr. Calloway. “Through education, compassion, and everyday actions, like practicing patience, celebrating unique strengths, and creating inclusive classrooms, we build a community where everyone feels they belong. When we choose understanding over judgment, we don’t just support students with autism, we strengthen the kindness, empathy, and unity of our entire school.”

OCSD remains dedicated to supporting students with diverse needs by providing resources, services, and opportunities that promote both academic and social success. Observing World Autism Awareness Day reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to equity, understanding, and empowering every student to reach their full potential.

Our students at William J. Clark Middle School enjoyed a powerful musical performance of “Out of the Mouth of Babes” thanks to the Cecil Williams South Carolina Civil Rights Museum and the South Carolina Arts Commission! This meaningful experience brought history, culture, and the arts together in a way that truly inspired our students.

In honor of Youth Art and Music in Our Schools Month, Marshall Elementary School showed their appreciation for the arts by hosting their F.A.M.E. Arts Festival! Students had an amazing opportunity to explore a variety of art forms, including spoken word, painting, music, dancing, and DJing. It was a day full of creativity, expression, and inspiration as our students discovered new talents and passions!

We enjoyed spending time today with the Call Me Misters from South Carolina State University and Claflin University during their visit with Dr. Foster! Over lunch, they had the opportunity to connect not only with district leaders but also with our teachers, many of whom were in their same shoes not too long ago. The conversations were real, encouraging, and full of purpose as they talked about the impact they can make in education. We are excited about their future and hopeful that after graduation, they will choose to make a difference right here in Orangeburg County School District.

We hosted our final Coffee with the Superintendent for the school year at Branchville and Lockett. We’re grateful to the parents, community members, and staff who joined us to learn more about initiatives impacting our students, share feedback, and stay connected. Your voices help move our district forward!

Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School hosted the Special Olympics Region 3 Games, welcoming student-athletes from Orangeburg, Barnwell, and Allendale County School Districts. Our students showcased their athletic ability, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the day, demonstrating what it truly means to compete with heart.

Students at Whittaker Elementary and Brookdale Elementary participated in a districtwide partnership with the Carolina Panthers, Samaritan’s Feet International, and the David & Nicole Tepper Foundation to receive a new pair of shoes.

The event is part of the NFL PLAY 60 initiative, which promotes physical activity and student wellness. More than 5,000 pairs of shoes have been distributed across North and South Carolina. Whittaker Elementary and Brookdale Elementary were selected to participate in a three-year effort focused on literacy, physical health, and social-emotional development.

“This partnership allows us to focus on the whole child,” said Bernard E. Frost. “When students feel comfortable and confident, they can better focus on learning.”

Volunteers from Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School, including members of the football team and cheerleading squad, assisted with distributing shoes and supporting the event.

Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster noted that partnerships such as this provide additional support and opportunities that contribute to student success.

Orangeburg County School District invites the community to celebrate the power of student voice and writing at the announcement of the winners of our first Secondary Writing Competition, Master of Mechanics.

The event will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the R-Auditorium at OCtech. During this special evening, finalists will be recognized and winners will be announced as we highlight the creativity, skill, and dedication demonstrated by our secondary student writers.

We invite families, staff, and community members to join us for this exciting celebration and cheer on our talented student writers.

The City of Orangeburg and the Fire Squad invites residents, organizations, and volunteers to participate in an upcoming Community Clean-Up Day, spearheaded by Councilwoman Annette Dees Grevious, on Saturday, March 21 from 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon at DORA Pavilion, 1325 Russell Street. This initiative aims to bring the community together to enhance the appearance of the city, promote civic pride, and encourage collective responsibility for maintaining clean and welcoming neighborhoods.

Volunteers are encouraged to bring their energy and enthusiasm as they work alongside neighbors, community leaders, and city staff. Supplies and guidance will be provided on-site. For more information, call 803.386.5505 or email annette.grevious@orangeburg.sc.us.

The newest team is making a big splash in the Palmetto State League! Welcome the Garden City River Ducks!

John Nester, Commissioner of the Palmetto State league said “Orangeburg is an opportunity to step forward in the continued growth of the Palmetto State League. This city brings tremendous opportunity, strong local pride, and a passion for athletics that aligns perfectly with our mission. I’m confident Orangeburg will quickly become a vibrant home for summer collegiate baseball.”

Read more: https://www.palmettostateleague.com/.../orangeburg...

Our BAJA students had a fantastic field experience at SCETV Education!

During their visit, students toured the facility, learned about radio and newscasting, and participated in a hands-on activity where they created their own podcasts.

We are proud to celebrate Orangeburg-Wilkinson senior Anthony Robinson on the next step of his journey as he officially signs with Erskine College. A special shoutout to Head Coach Chris Carter and Assistant Coaches Johnson & Evans and the entire coaching staff for their leadership and support throughout Anthony’s athletic career.

Whittaker Elementary School hosted an engaging STEM Day in partnership with the Governor’s School for South Carolina Governor's School for Science & Mathematics! Designed for students in grades 3rd–5th, this dynamic experience introduced high-level STEM concepts that sparked curiosity, encouraged innovation, and deepened critical thinking skills.

A special thank you to Rep. James E. Clyburn for taking the time to speak with our future leaders of tomorrow! Today’s book signing was more than just signing books, it was a moment of inspiration, encouragement, and meaningful conversation with students who are preparing to lead the future.

Students across Orangeburg County School District spent the week turning pages and exploring new stories as schools celebrated Read Across America Week. The annual celebration highlighted the importance of literacy while bringing together students, educators, district staff, and community members to share in the joy of reading.

Throughout the week, classrooms and libraries welcomed a variety of guest readers who volunteered their time to read aloud to students. District leaders, staff members, and community partners visited schools to share their favorite books and encourage students to discover the power of reading. These special moments allowed students to see how reading connects people of all ages and backgrounds.

In addition to guest readers, schools hosted a variety of engaging literacy activities designed to make reading fun and interactive. Students participated in themed dress-up days inspired by favorite book characters, classroom read-aloud sessions, book discussions, and other creative activities that encouraged them to dive deeper into stories and imagination.

We are excited to invite you to the OCSD Honor Band Concert on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Claflin University Auditorium.

This evening will feature some of the district’s most talented student musicians as they come together for a powerful and engaging performance. Their hard work, commitment, and passion for music will be on full display in a concert that promises to be both inspiring and memorable.

Your encouragement and presence mean so much to our students as they showcase their dedication and musical growth. We warmly invite you to attend and bring along family and friends to help us celebrate this special achievement.

Orangeburg County School District invites the community to celebrate the power of student voice and writing at the announcement of the winners of our first Secondary Writing Competition, Master of Mechanics.

The event will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the R-Auditorium at OCtech. During this special evening, finalists will be recognized and winners will be announced as we highlight the creativity, skill, and dedication demonstrated by our secondary student writers.

We invite families, staff, and community members to join us for this exciting celebration and cheer on our talented student writers.

On March 18th, in addition to our phenomenal farmers market, you will also have the opportunity to receive free glucose and blood pressure checks. Be sure to stop by, enjoy the market, and take a moment to get your vitals checked and prioritize your health.

Looking for a fun and meaningful weekend activity? Join us at the Orangeburg County YMCA for Mother & Daughter Tea Time and Art on March 21 from 10 AM–12 PM.

All supplies included.

Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/MDTea2026

OCSD Honor Choir students shined bright as they lifted their voices in song. Their talent, dedication, and passion were on full display, making it a performance to remember. We are so proud of these incredible students!

A huge congratulations to Kimberly Obiet from William J. Clark Middle School for winning Best in Show at the 11th Annual Read Across America Art Contest!

The SCEA surprised Kimberly with her “Best in Show” prize, along with three other talented students who placed in the competition.

Best in Show, Kimberly Obiet

1st Place, Ma. Geneva Patiluna

3rd Place, Chantae Benyard

Honorable Mention, Kiersten Thomas

This week, schools across OCSD joined in the celebration of National School Breakfast Week!

Throughout the week, our schools highlighted the importance of starting the day with a healthy breakfast. From fun cafeteria celebrations to smiling students enjoying their morning meals, it was a wonderful reminder that a great day of learning begins with a great breakfast.

Thank you to our amazing nutrition teams for helping fuel our students for success every day!

For two impactful days, we came together to begin crafting OCSD’s next five-year strategic plan. Teachers, assistant principals, principals, community members, and students all had a seat at the table, each bringing unique perspectives that sparked thoughtful dialogue and meaningful collaboration.

Through powerful conversations and a shared vision, we gained valuable insight into the path forward and the future we are building together for our district.

We hosted our very first CTE Business After Hours in partnership with the Orangeburg County Development Commissionin celebration of Career and Technical Education Month!

We had the opportunity to connect with local industries, colleges, and businesses from across the county to discuss strengthening our workforce pipeline and building a brighter, stronger future for Orangeburg County.

Yesterday, students from Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School and Lake Marion High School took the stage in a powerful celebration of Black History Month, showcasing their dancing talents in a production that honored the evolution of African American dance. Each performance reflected a different era and style, using movement to tell stories of culture, resilience, creativity, and influence.

The evening was made even more meaningful by the theatre students from Carver-Edisto Middle School, who served as MCs for the program. Through their narration, they shared valuable historical insight into the contributions of African Americans in dance, helping the audience better understand the significance behind each performance.

Together, the dancers and student hosts created an experience that was both educational and inspiring, reminding everyone in attendance of the power of the arts to celebrate history and bring people together.

Come out to First Presbyterian Church of Orangeburg for their Cinderella Project Boutique, where students can find a new or gently used prom dress at no cost. It’s a wonderful opportunity to shine on prom night without the price tag!

Join master basket maker Gail Wright for an immersive 3-hour introduction to the art of sweetgrass baskets. Rooted in the Gullah Geechee cultural tradition of the South Carolina Lowcountry, this hands-on class invites participants to learn the history, materials, and foundational techniques behind this iconic craft. All materials are included in the workshop fee. Scissors and nail bones will be provided for use during the class and collected afterward.

Looking for a fun and meaningful weekend activity? Join us at the Orangeburg County YMCA for Mother & Daughter Tea Time and Art on March 21 from 10 AM–12 PM.

All supplies included.

Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/MDTea2026

We had the honor of hosting thirteen dedicated student-teachers from South Carolina State University, Claflin University, and the University of South Carolina who are shaping the future of education. Even more exciting? Four of these amazing student-teachers have committed to their offered letters of agreement to join the OCSD family! We’re proud to continue building strong partnerships and investing in the next generation of educators.

Marshall Elementary School kicked off Black History Month with a special program and a ribbon-cutting ceremony unveiling vibrant new murals for the F.A.M.E. and STAGE Magnet Programs.

Later in the week, Mayor Butler visited the school, engaging with our bright 3rd-grade students. They enjoyed learning about voting, civic responsibilities, and the important role leaders play in our community. It was an inspiring week of learning, celebration, and community connection!

Dr. Shawn Foster, Orangeburg County School District superintendent, and Dr. Louis Whitesides, vice president for Public Service & Agriculture at SC State, signed a Memorandum of Understanding formalizing an ongoing partnership to enhance agricultural education and STEM learning at Edisto Elementary School.

This collaboration will expand hands-on learning opportunities for students through the AgTech Magnet Academy, providing innovative experiences in agriculture, technology, and STEM. We are excited to see our students grow, explore, and thrive through this partnership!

Congratulations to North Middle/High School on being named a National ESEA Distinguished School! The school was recognized today at the annual national conference in Denver, Colorado, joining an elite group of just 63 schools from 33 states nationwide. This honor reflects the dedication of their students, educators, and staff.

Orangeburg County School District is proud to celebrate our talented student-athletes on National Signing Day! Congratulations to:

• Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School – Jaylen Dash, Derrick Thomas, and Chris Glover on signing with Presbyterian College for football.

• North/Middle High School – Ms. Jaiyln Williams on her commitment to USC Salkehatchie for basketball, and Kailen Parks on signing a Division I scholarship to play at Mississippi Valley State University for girls basketball.

• Lake Marion High School – Treyvon Pauling and Carl Capers on signing with Erskine College for football.

• Edisto High School – Kamara Chavis on signing with Penn State Beaver for softball. Jamon Boatwright signing with Anderson University and Chris Hampton signing with Bethany College.

• Branchville High School – Zion Clark on signing with Denmark Technical College for basketball.

We are incredibly proud of all our student-athletes and can’t wait to see them shine at the next level!

Students from across Orangeburg County School District showcased their talents as they auditioned for the Summer Arts Academy in dance, drama, visual arts, instrumental music, and vocal music. We were thrilled to see their creativity, passion, and dedication on full display.