Orangeburg County School District (OCSD) proudly celebrates Sheridan Elementary School for being named a 2026 ASCA Student Council School of Excellence Award recipient by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) in partnership with the American Student Council Association (ASCA).

Announced during National Student Leadership Week (April 20–24, 2026), this prestigious recognition honors student councils across the nation that demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to their school communities. Sheridan Elementary stands among just 54 schools nationwide to receive this distinction.

At the heart of Sheridan’s recognition is its impactful “Superstars Care” project, an initiative led by the school’s Student Council to support families in need at the Samaritan House of Orangeburg County. Through a school-wide donation drive, students collected essential paper products such as toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues—items often in critical demand for families experiencing hardship.

The initiative not only provided vital resources but also cultivated a culture of empathy and civic responsibility among students.

“At Sheridan Elementary, we believe leadership begins with service,” said Principal Aisha Williams. “Our students embraced the ‘Superstars Care’ initiative with compassion and purpose, demonstrating that even our youngest leaders can make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. This recognition reflects their heart for service and our school’s commitment to building a culture where every student understands the power of giving back, she said.”

“Being Student Council President has shown me that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference,” said Dazaar Abraham, 5th Grade Sheridan Elementary School Student. “When we worked on ‘Superstars Care,’ I was proud to see our school come together to help families who need us. It made me realize that leadership means helping others and making sure everyone feels supported and included, he continued.”

In addition to its community service efforts, Sheridan Elementary’s Student Council also led a Special Olympics Send-Off Parade, a school-wide celebration honoring special education students participating in the district’s Special Olympics. The event brought together students, teachers, and staff to create an atmosphere of encouragement, inclusion, and school pride. Participants wore school colors, cheered on their peers, and celebrated the accomplishments of student-athletes—reinforcing a culture where every student is seen, valued, and celebrated.

Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster praised the recognition, noting that Sheridan Elementary exemplifies the district’s commitment to developing the whole child and ensuring students discover and develop their person, purpose, and platform.

The ASCA Student Council School of Excellence Award recognizes schools that demonstrate excellence in student-led initiatives aligned with leadership, service, citizenship, and school spirit. Sheridan Elementary’s efforts exemplify how meaningful student engagement can drive real change both within schools and across communities.