District News

On Wednesday, February 26, 2026, Barnwell County Career Center (BCCC) FFA members joined hundreds of Future Farmers of America (FFA) students from across the state at the South Carolina State House for FFA Legislator Appreciation Day, proudly representing their chapter in their official blue jackets.

During the visit, students had the opportunity to meet with Representative Lonnie Hosey, where they learned more about his work on behalf of Barnwell County and personally thanked him for his continued support of agricultural education and the FFA program.

Students also toured the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA), where they heard from Commissioner Hugh Weathers’ Executive Assistant, Cristina Key, and Assistant Commissioner, Aaron Wood. During the visit, students learned about the day-to-day operations of the department and the wide range of projects managed by the SCDA in support of agriculture across the state. Mrs. Key and Mr. Wood also shared information about internship opportunities available to students through the Department of Agriculture.

While at the State House, BCCC FFA members were excited to reconnect with the Guinyard-Butler Middle School FFA chapter for a group photo. This marked a special milestone for Guinyard-Butler students, as it was their first official FFA activity wearing their brand-new FFA jackets.

The day concluded with the Legislative Day Ceremony held on the steps of the State House. The ceremony featured remarks from South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers, Senator Wes Climer, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, and Representative Bill Hixon, Chairman of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.

During the ceremony, Senator Climer and Representative Hixon presented South Carolina State FFA President Thomas Marshall with the FFA Week Joint Resolution, officially recognizing the impact of FFA and agricultural education across the state.

“Opportunities like FFA Legislator Appreciation Day allow our students to see firsthand how agriculture, leadership, and public service intersect,” said Dr. Crissie Stapleton, Superintendent of Barnwell County School District. “Experiences such as this help students understand the impact they can have beyond the classroom and inspire them to become informed, engaged leaders within their communities and the field of agriculture.”

Barnwell County Career Center FFA is proud to provide students with opportunities that connect classroom learning to leadership, civic engagement, and real-world experiences in agriculture.

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BCCC FFA Participates in South Carolina FFA Legislator Appreciation Day

For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net

Macedonia Elementary–Middle School

Macedonia Elementary–Middle School (MEMS) proudly represented Barnwell County at the South Carolina Junior Beta Club Convention in Myrtle Beach, bringing home five awards.

Students from MEMS earned top honors across several competitive categories. Imani Jones placed third in the Performing Arts Elementary Solo, Duo, and Trio Instrumentalist category, while Jakobe Felder earned fourth place in the same performing arts category. In the visual arts competition, Jaelle Coleman received fourth place for Hand-Drawn Anime. In addition to individual awards, both the elementary and junior (middle) school MEMS teams were named Scavenger Hunt winners, highlighting teamwork, problem-solving, and collaboration.

These accomplishments reflect the dedication and perseverance of MEMS Junior Beta Club members, who competed with confidence and represented their school with pride throughout the convention. Wanda Jones, MEMS Junior Beta Club Sponsor, shared, “We are incredibly proud of their hard work, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. Congratulations to these students on their remarkable accomplishments and best wishes as they prepare for nationals!”

Principal Chelsea Calhoun took a moment to recognize the effort behind the students’ success and the deep impact it had on the MEMS community. She shared, “A huge shout-out to Mr. Victor Jones, MEMS Beta Sponsors, and Parents! Thank you for everything you’ve poured into our scholars — the time, dedication, support, and belief. It truly means more than words can express!”

With excitement building and momentum carrying forward, Macedonia Elementary–Middle School is already setting its sights on the next challenge. The journey continues as MEMS prepares for the national stage in Nashville, Tennessee.

 

Williston-Elko Middle School

 

Williston-Elko Middle School’s Junior Beta Club recently traveled to Myrtle Beach to participate in the South Carolina Junior Beta Club Convention, where students competed in a variety of academic, artistic, and performing arts events alongside peers from across the state.

During the competition, two WEMS students earned special recognition for their outstanding performances. Ahmad Washington was recognized for his solo dance performance, and Savannah Kinard received honors in the fiber arts category. As a result of their achievements, both students will represent Williston-Elko Middle School and the state of South Carolina at the National Junior Beta Club Convention, which will be held this summer in Tennessee.

“The SC Junior Beta Club Convention offers our students an excellent opportunity to network with students from other schools, to compete in special interest areas, and to see what service projects and activities clubs around our state are engaging in,” said Katina O’Neal-Brown, Junior Beta Club co-sponsor and sixth-grade ELA teacher. “We are proud of all of our students who chose to attend, and we are especially excited for Ahmad and Savannah.”

The Williston-Elko Middle School community congratulates all Junior Beta Club members who participated in the convention and wishes Ahmad Washington and Savannah Kinard continued success as they prepare to compete on the national stage.

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BCSD Elementary and Middle School Students Shine at South Carolina Junior Beta Club Convention and Advance to National Competition

For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net

Barnwell County Career Center will host a Community Open House on Thursday, February 12, from 5:00–7:00 p.m., inviting residents, students, parents, and local employers to explore the wide range of career and technical education opportunities available to Barnwell County students.

During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to tour classrooms, meet instructors and students, and experience hands-on demonstrations from programs including Marketing, Law Enforcement, Cosmetology, Cyber Security, Welding, Automotive Technology, Health Science, Mechanical Design, Building Construction, and Agriculture. Each program is designed to prepare students with real-world skills aligned to high-demand careers and local workforce needs.

“Our goal is to show the community what career and technical education truly looks like today,” said David Augustine, CTE Director. “The Barnwell County Career Center provides students with hands-on learning,  industry-relevant skills, and career pathways that directly benefit both our students and the employers right here in Barnwell County.”

The Open House highlights the Career Center’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce by connecting education with industry. Many programs offer students opportunities to earn industry credentials, explore career options, and gain experience that prepares them for employment, technical training, or continued education after graduation.

“Our Barnwell County Career Center represents  the very best of what public education can do when
schools, families, and community partners  work together,” said Dr. Crystal F. Stapleton, Superintendent of Barnwell County School District. “This Open House is an opportunity for our community to see firsthand how students are gaining meaningful, hands-on experience that prepares them for high-demand careers, further education, and life beyond high school. We are proud of the work happening at BCCC and of the role these programs play in strengthening both our students’ futures and our local workforce.”

The event is free and open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about how the Barnwell County Career Center is shaping the future workforce of Barnwell County.

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BCCC Invites Community to Explore CTE Education Programs

For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net

Barnwell County School District is excited to announce the selection of its IT Apprentices for the 2025–2026 school year. These students will support technology operations across the district while gaining valuable hands-on experience in the field of information technology.

The selected apprentices are:

• Yug Patel – Williston Schools
• Kimberly Cruz – Blackville Schools
• Elijah Greene – Barnwell Schools 

IT Apprentices play an essential role in maintaining smooth technology operations across our schools. On a regular basis, they assist with:

• Troubleshooting and resolving basic device and software issues for students and staff
• Setting up, updating, and maintaining Chromebooks, laptops, tablets, and classroom technology
• Supporting teachers with instructional technology needs
• Assisting with network equipment checks and inventory management 
• Learning best practices for cybersecurity, digital safety, and responsible technology use 

Through this apprenticeship program, students gain practical, hands-on experience that prepares them for future careers in information technology while helping ensure reliable technology access for our school communities. 

BCSD Superintendent Dr. Crissie Stapleton shared, “Our IT Apprenticeship program is an incredible opportunity for students to develop real-world skills while serving their school communities. We are proud of these students for stepping into leadership roles in technology, and we look forward to seeing the impact they will make across the district.”

Barnwell County School District looks forward to the contributions these talented
students will bring to their respective schools and to the BCSD technology team.

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Barnwell County School District Announces 2025–2026 IT Apprentices

For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net

This November, students across the high schools in Barnwell County School District participated in the annual FoodShare fresh food box giveaway, distributing boxes of fruits and vegetables to community members at Blackville-Hilda High School, Williston-Elko High School, and Barnwell High School. The effort is part of the ongoing partnership between FoodShare South Carolina and the United Way of Allendale, Barnwell and Bamberg Counties to expand access to nutritious, affordable food.

Each FoodShare box contains 9 to 11 varieties of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with recipes, preparation tips, and nutrition notes designed to help families explore new foods and support healthier eating habits.

Blackville-Hilda High School Principal Christina Snider emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for students to serve their community. “ We are very grateful that our students are able to help with the distribution of food boxes with the continued partnership with FoodShare. The program has allowed our community to benefit from their generosity and allowed our students to have a positive experience with community service. Putting others before ourselves is an important part of the service we will try to instill in our students.” Her school’s students helped lead deliveries and assisted families in carrying boxes to vehicles throughout the morning. 

At Williston-Elko High School, Principal Tony Flowers noted how powerful it is for students to see the impact of their efforts firsthand. “I am grateful for our continued partnership with the FoodShare program. This opportunity allows our students to engage with community members, fostering pride and a sense of purpose as they realize their ability to create positive change within our community.” Students at WEHS greeted community members, helped sort produce, and ensured each family received their full selection of fresh foods.

Barnwell High School Principal Derek Youngblood shared that events like the FoodShare giveaway help strengthen the ties between schools and the communities they serve. “Barnwell High School is proud to join United Way in this important work. We are blessed to be part of a community that understands the power of working together and remains dedicated to improving the lives of those we serve.” BHS students volunteered at distribution tables, helped organize traffic flow, and assisted older adults and families with young children.

United Way of Allendale, Barnwell and Bamberg Counties Executive Director Ferlicia Cuthbertson said the continued partnership with FoodShare South Carolina is an essential part of supporting families throughout the region. This year’s coordinated giveaways reflect the United Way’s commitment to addressing food access, improving wellness, and fostering service learning for local students. The organization plans to continue expanding FoodShare distribution opportunities throughout the tri-county region in the coming year, and the students of BCSD are eager to continue leading these efforts as active partners in strengthening their communities. 

For more information on United Way of Allendale, Barnwell and Bamberg Counties, please visit their website at www.unitedwayabb.org.

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BCSD High Schools Participate in FoodShare Fresh Food Box Giveaways

For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net

The Barnwell County Career Center (BCCC) Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter is proud to announce that chapter officer Cale Peachey has been accepted to participate in the National FFA Next Gen Conference in March 2026.

Next Gen Conferences, held three times each year, focus on specialized career pathways and are open to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors through a competitive application process. These conferences provide students with the opportunity to map out their futures through career exploration sessions, industry roundtables, hands-on activities, and industry tours. Designed to help build the next generation of skilled leaders in agriculture, the program connects students directly with professionals and emerging technologies.

Cale will be attending the conference focused on the Power, Structure, and Technical Systems pathway. This pathway explores areas such as mechanical systems, engineering, energy, and precision technologies—fields essential to the future of agricultural innovation. The conference will take place in Raleigh, North Carolina in March 2026.

“We are extremely proud of Cale for taking this step in his leadership and career development,” Agriculture Education Teacher and FFA Advisor Christle Gleaton shared. “We know our FFA members are the next generation of leaders to fill the talent pipeline, and what better way to
prepare them than through the Next Gen Conferences? Opportunities like the Next Gen Conference help ensure our students are prepared to be the future leaders and problem-solvers in agriculture.”

For more information about the BCCC FFA Chapter or upcoming events, please follow us online through our school and chapter social media pages.

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BCCC FFA Member Accepted to National FFA Next Gen Conference

For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net

On Thursday, November 13, Old Barnwell welcomed twenty student golfers from Barnwell County School District for a special event designed exclusively for BCSD athletes. The day offered a rich blend of instruction and on-course experience for students who are either returning members of their high school golf teams or interested in joining this year. They were accompanied by Coach John Infinger of Williston-Elko High School and Coach Dwayne Garrick of Barnwell High School, both of whom supported and encouraged the players throughout the morning.

Old Barnwell’s Director of Instruction, Pat Milkovich, led a focused golf clinic tailored specifically for the BCSD group. Through multiple warm-up and fundamentals stations, Milkovich provided hands-on coaching, reinforced proper technique, and helped students strengthen the core skills they will rely on throughout their season. His instruction set the tone for the remainder of the event, ensuring players felt confident and prepared.

Following the clinic, students transitioned to the Kids Course for live play. They were divided into small groups, with administrators and coaches walking alongside them as they navigated a scramble-format round designed to encourage strategic thinking, teamwork, and situational learning, while also practicing the skills they learned during the clinic.

At the conclusion of play, the group gathered at the putting green for a recap session, where the instructor reviewed key takeaways from the day and offered guidance for continued growth and development as the season approaches.

Superintendent Dr. Crissie Stapleton visited the event and shared her deep appreciation for Old Barnwell’s ongoing partnership with the district. “I loved being there for a short time that day with our golfing student-athletes. I have been able to work with Old Barnwell in many ways, and they have also reached out to us time and time again to ask how they can support our students and help our district flourish. Over the past months, I have been working closely with Ed Brockner, Mission Director for Old Barnwell, and his kindness, dedication, and genuine desire to make a difference have meant so much to us. He has been incredibly supportive as we explore new ways to work together and make an even greater impact on the children in our community. This partnership is not something they pursue because they have to, but because they truly care. Their heart for service and their mission to lift others up extends far beyond the golf course.”

Assistant Superintendent Franklin McCormack also joined the students for the experience. “I can’t say enough good things about Old Barnwell and the hospitality they showed our student-athletes,” he shared. “Just setting foot on Old Barnwell’s grounds and witnessing the perfection of the golf course was more than enough generosity; however, Old Barnwell’s Director of Instruction, Pat Milkovich, gave our golfers tips and tricks that were practical and pertinent to ensure their game continues to improve. To top it off, our golfers were able to play the junior course and receive on-the-course instruction from Pat. Even though I did not get to play the course with our student-athletes, I was able to pick up some advice from Pat as well about my own golf game!”

Barnwell County School District remains deeply grateful to Old Barnwell for their commitment to supporting local students and for providing experiences that strengthen both their skills and their love for the game of golf.

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Old Barnwell Hosts Golf Clinic for BCSD Student-Athletes

For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net

The Barnwell County Career Center (BCCC) Future Farmers of America (FFA) Wildlife Team earned an impressive 3rd place finish at the South Carolina FFA State Wildlife Career Development Event (CDE), marking the chapter’s first Wildlife CDE plaque in its history and its first chapter plaque since 2019.

The State Wildlife CDE challenges students to demonstrate their understanding of wildlife and natural resource systems, habitat management, and general wildlife management principles. Throughout the competition, participants identified a wide range of wildlife species—including furbearers, reptiles, amphibians, fish, game birds, and non-game birds—as well as tools, tracks, skulls, pelts, and plants. Competitors were also required to age deer by jawbone, score a deer’s rack, and answer comprehensive knowledge questions covering topics such as habitat requirements and age/sex determination for species like wild turkey and quail.

Career Development Events like the Wildlife CDE allow FFA members to apply the knowledge and skills gained through agricultural education. These contests strengthen critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and work ethic while preparing students for success in the 21st-century workplace. Students compete both individually and as a team, showcasing their leadership, dedication, and agricultural expertise.

Representing BCCC in this year’s Wildlife CDE were Davis Coble, Dottie Still, Jase Bridges, and Reese Yelton. “I am extremely proud of the dedication and commitment shown by this team to learn this material and prepare for this contest,” said Mrs. Desiree Still, Agriculture Education teacher and FFA Advisor. “Other teachers bragged on their behavior and respectfulness at the contest, which speaks volumes for the well-rounded students that we have in our FFA chapter.”

The BCCC chapter celebrates this achievement as a milestone in its growth and looks forward to continued success in future FFA competitions.

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BCCC's FFA Wildlife Team Places 3rd in State Contest

For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net

Williston-Elko Middle School (WEMS) recently hosted its annual Math Engagement Night, welcoming students, parents, guardians, faculty, and staff, as well as students and staff from the DIG program.

The event featured hands-on, math-centered activities throughout the building, including flashcard games, pentominoes, multiplication bingo, and a scavenger hunt. These activities provided students and families with an interactive way to engage with mathematics while also fostering collaboration and fun.

In addition, attendees had the opportunity to explore the South Carolina College and Career Ready Standards for Math in a family-friendly format. Families were also provided with the Barnwell County School District Promotion-Retention Rubric and engaged in discussions about academic success expectations tailored to their children.

“The evening was a great success,” said Patricia Ulmer, WEMS Principal. “It was wonderful to see students, families, and staff collaborate on improving math skills through play. Our parents, guardians, and students left with a clearer understanding of the new math standards and of our promotion and retention rubric."

A priority for WEMS is to host family engagement events that allow students, parents, and guardians to work together, learn collaboratively, and become familiar with academic expectations and standards. Math Engagement Night provided the perfect opportunity for families to be actively involved in their children’s learning while celebrating the importance of mathematics in everyday life. The school looks forward to hosting more events like this in the future.

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Williston-Elko Middle School Hosts Annual Math Engagement Night

For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net