For the eighth consecutive year, Orangeburg County School District (OCSD) Board of Trustees member Ruby Edwards continued her annual tradition of spreading holiday cheer to students and educators across District Six, reinforcing the importance of community, gratitude, and giving during the Christmas season.

“For the past eight years, this initiative has been a small but meaningful way to say thank you to the students and educators who give so much of themselves every day,” Trustee Edwards said. “While a simple gift card or token cannot fully express our appreciation, it is a heartfelt gesture to recognize their hard work and bring joy during the holidays, she shared.”

Trustee Edwards visited Mellichamp Elementary School, Edisto Primary School, and Sheridan Elementary School, surprising students and staff with gifts, encouragement, and warm holiday wishes. At Mellichamp Elementary School, 20 students received $10 Walmart gift cards. In addition, three educators participated in a friendly competition for the opportunity to win one $50 LongHorn Steakhouse gift card and two turkeys, adding excitement and celebration among staff.

At Edisto Primary School, 33 students received $10 McDonald’s gift cards. Two educators competed for the opportunity to win a $50 LongHorn Steakhouse gift card and a turkey, recognizing their dedication and service to students.

At Sheridan Elementary School, seven students who participated in the school’s 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Oratory Contest received $10 McDonald’s gift cards in recognition of their leadership, voice, and academic engagement. Additionally, every kindergarten student received a special toy and a candy cane, ensuring even the youngest learners experienced the joy of the season.

This annual initiative was made possible through the generosity of Trustee Edwards and valued community partners, Orangeburg County Councilwoman Deloris Frazier. Through their collective support, OCSD students and educators received gift cards, toys, and holiday items that helped make the season brighter for families across District Six.

Mellichamp Elementary School Principal Dr. Latoya Glen expressed appreciation for the continued commitment to students and staff. “We are truly appreciative of Trustee Edwards and Councilwoman Frazier for taking the time to bring joy to our students and staff during the holiday season,” said Dr. Glen. “Their continued generosity and commitment mean so much to our school community, and our students feel supported and celebrated because of it.”

OCSD Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster emphasized the importance of leadership and partnership in creating meaningful experiences for students. “Moments like these reflect the heart of Orangeburg County School District,” said Dr. Foster. “When our board members, schools, and community partners come together, we are able to support the whole child, academically, socially, and emotionally, while reinforcing the values of service, compassion, and excellence that define our district.”

During each visit, Trustee Edwards encouraged students to continue striving for excellence and emphasized the critical role community partnerships play in supporting schools. “This is my eighth annual Christmas celebration in District Six,” Trustee Edwards said. “Each year, seeing the excitement on our students’ faces reminds me why this effort matters,” she said.