"The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education."
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
North Central HS was recently devastated by a EF 2 tornado. WSSD51 will be taking donations in the front office of WSHS. The link below has a list of items needed and address to send letters and other support. Please help if you can. https://www.kcsdschools.net/domain/3340
Congratulations to the WSHS Fishing Team of Hunter McGee and Ethen West, who finished 5th out of 108 teams in Saturday's "Palmetto Boat Center High School Tournament!"
We thank Coach Dale Gilbert and our boat captains for their time and expertise. We have three fishing teams, two from the high school and one from the middle
school.
Team members enjoy the sport of fishing, but they also learn so many valuable life lessons and skills...integrity, gratitude, communication, being on time, being prepared, etc.
Bus #5 for this afternoon is running approximately 45 minutes late today. Around 3:45 the route will start at the high school go to primary school and then the middle school.
Great way to start a morning!!
It's a new year, and we are looking forward to having students back this coming Monday, January 6th. The Class of 2020 is 96 days away from DESTINATION....GRADUATION!
Ware Shoals School District 51 would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy New Year!
Ware Shoals School District 51 would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
Power Outage: WSSD 51 experienced a power outage today at 2:45 pm. Power will be restored by 6:45 pm tonight. The WSMS basketball game scheduled for 5:00 pm tonight has been cancelled. School will start on a regular schedule tomorrow morning, December 19th. Thank you!
Elf on the Shelf and her crew of Christmas characters, including the "Jolly Old Elf" himself (Santa), were on hand to greet car riders at Ware Shoals Middle this morning. What a fun way to begin the day! LEARNING, SERVING, LEADING....CELEBRATING the joys of the season.
State Champion Hornettes
!!!Welcome Back Hornettes!!! ’69 ’70 ’74 ’78 ‘81
We have a drop-in scheduled from 5:00-5:45 on Tuesday the 17th in the cafeteria. The recognition ceremony will take place just before the Lady Hornets take on the Hornets from SCSDB @ 6:00. We'd love to see you all there!
WSHS exams begin on 12/13. Only Srs. (and those with semester classes) may exempt. Exam periods last app. 3 hours, including a review period. Students must remain in class until the end of the exam period. Medical excuses are considered for early dismissal.
It's looking a lot like Christmas around here, as our students complete the "DESTINATION GRADUATION" tree. Each student created an ornament for the tree, many proclaiming their graduation year!
For seniors, it's just a few months before we wish them "Merry Graduation!"
Thanks to WSPA and Ingles for making our day. Our mascot will get a makeover! The biggest thanks goes to all of you who voted - THANKS!!
Thanks to all who voted in the WSPA Mascot Challenge! Today, Tuesday the 10th, WSPA's Pete Yanity and representatives from Ingles will be at WSHS at 2:30 to present the check! Come join us for the presentation if you can! We would love to have a strong showing from our community of supporters.
The outcome of this contest is proof positive that size is no indicator of our might. When we join together for a common cause, LOOK OUT!
Calling all Hornettes!! Please let me know if you plan to be in attendance on Tuesday the 17th when our Lady Hornets take on the Lady Hornets of SCSDB at 6:00. '69, '70, '74, '78, '81
864-456-7923
864-377-0578
This winter, stay up-to-date with weather related closings and delays on our Facebook/Twitter/Instagram and Livefeed social media outlets.
LEARNING, SERVING, LEADING...DREAMING!
Ware Shoals Primary students recently shared their dreams, which were then placed in a display in the hallway. After graduation, WSP students will be making a difference in our world...AND beyond!
Ware Shoals School District 51 would like to wish everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving!
Just got off the phone with WSPA confirming our win!! We hope to set up a time in the very near future for the presentation. On behalf of Ware Shoals High School I Thank You all from the bottom of my Hornet Heart!
Ware Shoals High invites all former Hornette players from Coach Bob Johnston’s championship basketball teams to attend the game on Tuesday, Dec. 17th vs SCSDB at 6:00 pm. Members of the 1969, 1970, 1974, 1978 and 1981 State Championship teams will be recognized.
Help us spread the word! Team members should contact Coach Chris Johnston at 864-456-7923 (WSH office) or Paul Anderson at 864-377-0578 (cell).
So proud of our Ware Shoals Middle School's robotic teams who represented our district so well in the Mauldin Qualifier. Way to go!
Academic Challenge downstairs,
Miss WSHS practice in the auditorium
Buff-Puff in the gym at 6:30
Smart, Pretty AND Athletic!!
It's a Great Day to be a Hornet!..19,225+ Votes!
Segra has repaired their fiber connection that supports Ware Shoals School District 51. Telephone service is back to normal operations. Thank you for your patience and understanding!
Due to a Segra fiber outage in Greenville, our phone systems are having intermittent connectivity. For emergencies at the high school call 864-377-0578, middle school 864-378-2739 and primary school 864-626-4565. We apologize for the inconvenience. Thank you!
Will Lindley and Blake McCarty placed 20th out of 107 teams at Ware Shoals High School First Bass Tournament. The tournament was rescheduled for Sunday due to the inclement weather on Saturday. They landed two fish with a weight total of 5.77 pounds.
Our Teacher Cadets met Ms. Chanda Jefferson, SC TOY. Ms. Jefferson provided them inspiration and motivation to continue their journey in the teaching profession.
Learning...Serving...Leading...TEACHING!
Lamar High School
216 N Darlington Ave, Lamar, SC 29069
Game time 7:30
No "Clear Bag Policy" but expect to be "wanded" by an SRO
Hornet Fans.. FYI...there is no “Clear Bag Policy “ at Lamar HS...but expect to be “wanded” before entry. (per SRO)
Game time is 7:30 pm
Good Afternoon!
Bus 5 will run approximately 1 hour late tomorrow (Tuesday 11/12) during the AM & PM routes
Attention parents of high school students:
Yearbooks are currently on sale for $65.00. Buy before November 12th to get your child’s name on the cover for free. Buy now before the price goes up! Yearbooks can be ordered in the high school front office.
Please join us on our Facebook page just after 2:00 pm today for a live/last performance of "Addiction" by the Million Dollar Band.
WSSD51 practices safety drills throughout the year to help our staff and students know what to do in case of an emergency. This morning WSMS will participate in a lockdown drill to practice our emergency procedures. Safety remains a top priority in WSSD51. Thank you!
Attention parents of high school students:
Yearbooks are currently on sale for $65.00. Buy before November 12th to get your child’s name on the cover for free. Buy now before the price goes up! Yearbooks can be ordered in the high school front office.
We’ve started over!! Vote!!
https://www.wspa.com/mascot/
The Hornets take on Hunter-Kinard-Tyler High this Friday at 7:30 pm at Tommy Davis Field. Admission price is set by the High School League and is $8.00 per person.
No district, booster or student passes will be honored. Only SCHSL passes will be accepted at the pass gate.
Seniors who missed picture day, please sign up for a time at https://seniors.legacystudios.com/
THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE TO HAVE SENIOR PICTURES TAKEN! See Mrs. Guess if you have questions.
WSSD51 practices safety drills throughout the year to help our staff and students know what to do in case of an emergency. This morning at 9:30 our Primary School will participate in a lock down drill to practice our emergency procedures. Safety remains a top priority in WSSD51.
Fall Festival at WSPS!
Attention parents of high school students:
Yearbooks are currently on sale for $65.00. Buy before November 12th to get your child’s name on the cover for free. Buy now before the price goes up! Yearbooks can be ordered in the high school front office.
Vote for your Favorite Mascot in the 7News Mascot Challenge
https://www.wspa.com/mascot/
Parent Conferences until 7:00….Bonfire from 6-8:30 (weather permitting)….Lighting at 7 with FB players/cheerleaders/band
Parent Conferences Friday the 25th from 8-12
Senior Night vs CFCS at 7:30
Wednesday October 24th schedule – High School Dismissal at 12:15; No lunch will be served.
First Period 8:00 – 9:00
Second Period 9:05 – 10:05
Third Period 10:10 – 11:10
Fourth Period 11:15 – 12:15
Volleyball playoffs vs North today at 6:00 pm.
Admission is $5 per person. Only High School League Passes will be honored. Fall sports athletes are subject to an admission fee as the gate is split between schools.
The concession stand will be open. Thanks to the Volleyball parents.
Congratulations to the Ware Shoals Lady Hornets playing in the High School Golf Upper State Tournament today! So proud of these girls for qualifying to play in the State Tournament next week!!!! Big shoutout to Channing and Johnna for capturing 3rd and 4th place out of 75 girls!! Such amazing girls on this team!!!
Attention parents of high school students:
Yearbooks are currently on sale for $65.00. Buy before November 12th to get your child’s name on the cover for free. Buy now before the price goes up! Yearbooks can be ordered in the high school front office.
Please click the link below and take a moment to view the Ware Shoals Inaugural Hall of Fame induction ceremony. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nl_-xeftySg
From Christie Hodge
Re:M$B
5th place with a Superior rating. State finals next week! There were less than 2 points between 2nd and 5th. The kids were stellar and I am so proud
Bus Delay: Bus #6 is in traffic on Hwy 25 and will be a few minutes late this afternoon. Sorry for the delay.
Ware Shoals Lady Hornets Tournament @ Ware Shoals Golf Course
Date: Saturday, October 19
Time: 8:30 Shotgun/1:30 Shotgun
Entry: $40.00 (per person) includes cart, green fee, cookout, close-ups, prizes, 1 mulligan, 1 red tee, longest drive, and most accurate.
Format: 4-man captains choice teams
Hole Sponsors: $25:00 White/$50.00 Purple/$100.00 Gold
Form more information call @ (864)-456-2623
Way to go M$B!!
2nd to Union with a Superior score in Overall Effect Music. “We are so close to reaching our goals.... “
Christie Hodge
Buses 7 & 8 will be combined this afternoon, resulting in delays of about 10 minutes for some students. We apologize for this inconvenience.
Our district and community mourns the loss of Austin Sondles, Class of 2019. He is the grandson of Pam Wagner, who has worked here for many years as a bus driver and teacher's assistant. Please lift this family up as they deal with this tragic loss!
WSSD51 practices safety drills throughout the year to help our staff and students know what to do in case of an emergency. This morning at 10:30 our high school will participate in a lockdown drill to practice our emergency procedures. Safety remains a top priority in WSSD51.
Connecting students with books that match their interests is so important. This morning it was a joy to witness a fantastic first grader using his reading skills to learn more about our amazing universe. Reading can take you places, even to Jupiter!
Join our Twitter page! @ware_shoals_51
The Hornets play tonight at Greenwood Christian. Next week, we return home.
We are making a change for all home games in the future, affecting a small number of people. During the game, smoking will not be allowed at the back gate. Some fans in the stands have complained about the secondhand smoke. We have a tobacco-free district, which means there is to be no smoking anywhere on our campuses.
The “No Passes Out” practice will be in effect. Those who go outside the back gate will have to purchase a ticket to re-enter at the top of the steps. Please be reminded that vaping, Juuling, and all manner of smokeless tobacco are prohibited on district property. Thanks in advance for your cooperation and understanding!
Our Teacher Cadets enjoyed reading their big books today at the Primary School. The big books they read were written and illustrated by them and their theme was self-esteem.
Anti-Bullying Summit with Ware Shoals School District Students
Very proud of these two students who have volunteered to lend a helping hand. They have put our district's mission of LEARNING, SERVING and LEADING into practice.
Your child’s daily, on-time attendance is critical to their success in school. Some challenges to your child’s school attendance may be unavoidable, but it is important to understand the impact of each absence. For more information go to http://absencesaddup.org/.
We remember...the victims and their families on this day. We thank all first responders for running toward danger, serving others with courage and bravery. Today....we remember.
We will live-stream a brief ceremony at 8:35 today.
Please come join us for our first PTO meeting of the school year Thursday September 12th at 5:30 pm. Our PTO is a valuable part of our school and community. We hope to have a strong PTO this school year.
Important Dates
• September 9-13: MAP Testing
• September 23: Progress Reports
• September 24: Greenwood READS Spirit Night (Greenwood Mall) 4-7 pm
• September 25: Fall Pictures (gym)
• September 27: Homecoming
On Wednesday 9/11, known as Patriot Day, please visit the Ware Shoals School District 51 Facebook page for a 9/11 tribute. The program will begin at approximately 8:35 a.m. and include members of Squad 51 as our nation remembers.
Eric Cox has been nominated for the "LifeChanger of the Year" award. #LCOY
Please log on at http://app.lifechangeroftheyear.com/nomination_detail.cfm?NominationID=3674 and leave a supportive comment for him.
Also, share the link on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram using #LCOY. The selection committee reads all comments and takes them into consideration when reviewing nominees.
Update for WSP parents: While we wait for our main phone lines to be restored, parents can call 864-378-3522 to speak with a school representative. Thank you for your patience.
August 29th. Print and present.
https://www.wspa.com/mascot/
Please vote for our Hornet!
The public is invited to our Pep Rally today at 2:00. Please enter the gym through the gate as if it were a basketball game. Visitors may sit in the first section of bleachers as you enter the gym.
Friday Night Info
Oakbrook Prep Info
We look forward to hosting you all Friday Night. We have bleachers on the home side but not yet on the visitor’s side. Be sure to give your fans a heads up to bring chairs.
Admission will be $7 for adults and $4 for students.
Ware Shoals Primary students arrive on their first day to Destination Graduation!
Open House at Ware Shoals High School will be on Thursday, 8/22/19 from 3 pm - 6 pm. Safety briefing to follow at 6:00 pm in auditorium, presented by Mr. Eric Cox, District Safety Coordinator.
Starting Monday, August 19th, the WS Fitness Center will be open from 6am-6pm daily for those who clear a background check and abide by the WSFC guidelines.
Eric Cox, District Safety Coordinator, will hold a meeting in the center at 11am tomorrow (Friday, the 16th), and he will issue key cards for the gate and fitness center. Please bring your SC Driver's License.
WSFC members will be oriented to the center rules and to the equipment. CPR and AED training for members will be scheduled in the near future. There are no charges or fees to become a member. We just ask that you be responsible and respectful users of the center.
The center is monitored through video/audio cameras and has an AED. The space is maintained at a comfortable temperature for working out.
We are considering offering yoga classes this school year. If you're interested, let us know.
Call 864-456-7496 and ask for Eric Cox or Fay Sprouse if you have questions.
LET'S GET HEALTHY AND FIT THIS YEAR!
The Region I Football Jamboree will be held at Riegel Stadium on August 16th, beginning at 6:00 pm. ALL tickets will be $7.00.
ONLY HIGH SCHOOL LEAGUE PASSES WILL BE HONORED.
(No Reserved Parking).
Ware Shoals Fitness Center announcement:
Coach Wirszyla will be available to do initial assessments this Friday (August 16) at 11:30. (Please arrive on time!)
If you want to get started on a fitness program, now is the time to do it! Wear comfortable clothes and tennis shoes.
Starting August 19th, hours of the WSFC will be 6AM-8AM and 3PM until 5:30PM.
REMINDER of our public event:
Tomorrow (Tuesday) we celebrate the New Year. At 10AM Mike Hudson, WSH Class of 1991 and founder of ROAR, will speak about his life and the impact his tragic accident has had. At 11AM, humorist and author Susan Reinhardt will entertain with her homespun Southern humor. At noon, we'll announce the Inaugural Class of the Ware Shoals Schools' Hall of Fame.
Please join us!
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Abbeville County School District. Dr. Betty Jo Hall was an inspirational leader, educator and friend. She will be greatly missed by our district and our community.
On Friday, August 9th Ware Shoals High School will be accepting donations to our Clothes/Food Pantry Closet. The hours will be 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. Items such as toiletries, clothes, canned foods or other non-perishable items will be welcomed at the high school office.
This is part of our “Teachers IN Service” Day to better serve our school and community.
A Home School/Private School informational meeting will be held Tuesday, August 20, 2019, at 5:30 p.m. in the Library Conference Room, located at 56 South Greenwood Avenue, Ware Shoals, SC 29692. Please call Marti Arsenault at 864-456-7496 for more information.
Come join us as we celebrate the New Year on August 13th. At 10AM Mike Hudson, WSH Class of 1991 and founder of ROAR, will speak about his life and the impact his tragic accident has had. His life's mission now is empowering the disabled to get out and live life to its fullest. At 11AM, humorist and author Susan Reinhardt will entertain with her homespun Southern humor. Her best-selling novels include Chimes from a Cracked Southern Belle and Not Tonight Honey: Wait 'Til I'm a Size Six."
ATTENTION: Safety training will be conducted at the high school on Monday and Tuesday (8/5 and 8/6) from 8AM until 5PM There will be a substantial number of emergency vehicles in front the high school. The training is conducted via SLED and Texas State University.
We want to welcome the trainers and all the participants from the upstate area!
Check out this beautiful artwork, created by students in the "iCAN Summer Camp" at Ware Shoals Primary under the direction of Art teacher, Mrs. Baker.
Many of the young artists' will have their work featured at the Greenwood Arts Center (in the Federal Building) this coming month. We hope you'll visit downtown Greenwood to experience and enjoy their work!
ATTENTION to any student athletes interested in volleyball:
Tryouts will be held in the WSHS gym August 5th, from 9:00am - 11:00am for those who did not attend summer practice. Tryouts are open to middle school students (7th and 8th graders) and all high school students. Students must present a copy of their current physical in order to try out.
Please contact Coach Wirszyla with any questions at
pwirszyla@gwd51.org.
Getting students ready for school? Don't forget their immunizations.This year's requirements for all grades and other health related information may be found at this link:
https://www.scdhec.gov/health/vaccinations/back-school-immunization-toolkit
Ware Shoals School District 51 will again provide online registration for the upcoming school year, allowing parents with returning students to reduce the time required to register their children. Online registration will open on Monday, July 22nd. To register, visit the district’s website, www.gwd51.org, and click the “2019-2020 Returning Student Registration” button.
Parents who register online may still need to visit their child’s school during registration at their child’s school on July 30th from 11:00AM – 7:00PM to finalize the registration process, pick up schedules, and pay fees if they did not do so online.
In order to register online, parents will need a login code for each child. Login codes called "SNAPCODES" may be found on last year’s final report cards. Parents who have email address information on file will receive an email message this week from the district that includes the SNAPCODE. Parents may also obtain login codes and assistance as needed by calling their child’s school after July 25th.
New students must register in person at the school July 30th. Parents of 4K and new 5K students will need to bring the following documentation:
• Immunization Record
• Birth Certificate
• *Social Security Card
A required meeting will be held for all 4K parents on July 30th at 1PM in the Ware Shoals Primary School Library.
*Although this card cannot be mandated according to current State law, it is strongly recommended by the School District because of its impact on accurate student records.
Welcome to the WSSD51 family, Hannah Phillips! Miss Phillips will be teaching at Ware Shoals Primary. She graduated from Anderson University, and is eager to begin her professional career!
We are pleased to announce that the O'Dell Corporation will donate "Back to School" supplies to the children of Ware Shoals Primary School for the fifth year in a row. Our district is so grateful for O’Dell’s commitment to the betterment of our schools and our community. The O’Dell Corporation is making a positive impact on children and helping us achieve our district mission, which is to help each student reach that crucial milestone, DESTINATION…GRADUATION!”
Pictured are:
O'Dell Corporation Owners: Michelle O'Dell Foster, John Stroud, Chip O'Dell
WSSD51: Jason Morrison (WSP Principal), Fay Sprouse (Superintendent)
Please join us in welcoming Sheneque Gilchrist to the faculty of Ware Shoals Middle/Elementary. She will be teaching Math to our 6th graders. She was a substitute teacher this past year, so some of you already know her. Welcome to the WSSD51 family!
The Annette Batson Memorial Garden is bursting with blooms! What a beautiful tribute to a teacher who is still missed.
This past year, one of our students - Cameron Madden - built a swing for his senior project and donated it to us. It makes a lovely addition to the garden.
Quote of the day:
"Remember that children, marriages, and flower gardens reflect the kind of care they get."
H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
We just love welcoming WSSD51 alumni back home! Meet Lacey Hawkins, newest faculty member at Ware Shoals Primary. Lacey worked as a teacher assistant at WSP for a short while before accepting a position in Sumter last year. She is back and excited to get to teach where she first fell in love with school!
Meet Blake Bishop, Social Studies teacher at WSHS. He is a resident of Ware Shoals and is eager to get started! We welcome Mr. Bishop to the WSSD family.
Ware Shoals Primary School has a new principal. Mr. Jason Morrison comes to us from North Augusta Middle School where he served as Assistant Principal. He has twenty years of teaching experience, mostly in the field of English/Language Arts. He resides in Greenwood with his family. Please join us in welcoming Mr. Morrison to our WSSD51 family!
A warm welcome to the newest member of the WSHS faculty, Nichole McGehee. Ms. McGehee will teach Biology in the upcoming school year. We are happy that she has chosen to join our learning community!
UPDATE...We're extending our hours at the Ware Shoals Fitness Center! We will be open from 8-4 Monday-Thursday this summer. Those who can use the machines without need of assistance may come any of those hours.
The WSFC will be staffed with a certified personal trainer from 9-12 most days, beginning June 10th. NO MORE EXCUSES! Come work out in a clean, temperature controlled environment.
The WSFC, located on the high school campus, is offered free to adults 18 and over who live in our school district.
Ware Shoals 2019 graduation photos are online! Please use the three steps below to view our photos from Legacy Studios.
Step 1: Go to https://vando.imagequix.com/H9WFF9C
Step 2: Enter this code 9006M191
Step 3: Click on Graduation and enter your personal email address.
Graduation forecast: HOT!! High 90s are forecast for Tuesday, May 28th. The concrete bleachers will likely be pretty warm from the day's heat, so you may want to bring a blanket, stadium seat, or cushion to sit on. We will have a water station, and we have asked EMS to be in attendance. We will live stream the ceremony on Facebook, so those who are unable to attend can see it in real time.
Happy Memorial Day weekend! Stay safe.
The WSHS Class of 1949 celebrated their 70th reunion on May 17th with lunch and a program at Greenwood Country Club. Mr. Dan Branyon shared history and photos of Ware Shoals, and Dr. Fay Sprouse brought the alumni up to date on what's happening in the district and our schools. It was a great celebration!
Shown in the photo are, from left to right:
Seated - Manly Balentine, Bobbie Bowie Smith, Ann Holley Hodges, Miriam Davis Babb, Frances Crawford Campbell, and Lucia Agnew Bryson.
Standing - William Vaughn, Kennon Abrams, James "Spunk" Jones, Lamar Smith, Betty Branyon
Graduation is set for 7:00 pm on May 28th and scheduled for Riegel Stadium: Tommy Davis Field. Graduation will be livestreamed from our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/wareshoals51/
Due to the limited number of spaces, automobile access to the rear gate will be granted ONLY to those with a handicapped tag or placard. Those without a tag/placard, but with a need to enter at field level, may access the stadium on foot though the rear gate. The ramp into the bleachers is to the left side after entering the back gate.
Any additional requests for assistance must be reviewed by Mr. Cox, District Safety Coordinator, BEFORE 3:00 pm on the 28th . Please call 864-456-7923.
In case of inclement weather or sub-standard field conditions, the ceremony will be held in the auditorium. Each graduate will receive 10-12 tickets.
These WSH scholars have been accepted into the dual credit program at Lander University. Next year, they will take courses on the Lander campus that will count as high school credits and as hours for their freshman year of college. Our district provides tuition assistance and the books, making it very affordable. Congratulations to these students for investing in their future as they move closer to the DESTINATION...GRADUATION!
GreenwoodEDGE is a partnership between Piedmont Technical College and Greenwood School Districts 50, 51, and 52, county private schools, Greenwood Partnership Alliance, Greenwood County Council, Greenwood Promise, and local employers to provide training to high school students in high-demand occupations.
Congratulations to these students for being accepted into the program for 2019-20:
Matthew Cox, Dana Givens, Ethan Clark, and Christian Drake
The School Board election is tomorrow, May 14th. Please vote if you’re a resident of our district and remind your family and friends to do so as well.
There is always some confusion about who is eligible to vote in the school board election. Registered voters who live in Laurens, Abbeville, or Greenwood County within our district’s attendance zone may vote. Residency within the town limits of Ware Shoals is not required.
School board elections are so very important! Members formulate policy and make tough decisions on complex educational and social issues that impact our community. Their decisions and actions affect the present and future lives of our community’s children.
Two candidates are vying for one seat on the board: Shanon Calvert and Cody Quinn.
Don't forget to VOTE tomorrow!
Our District Teacher of the Year, Josh Hallman, was honored at the South Carolina's 2019 Teacher of the Year Gala on Wednesday. The gala celebrated the contributions of 80 teachers across the state who were selected as District TOY. We want to thank the Self Family Foundation for supporting our TOY through the District Sponsorship gift of $1,500.
There is no greater impact on a student's success than a high quality teacher in every classroom. Thank you, Coach Hallman, for all you have done for our students in academics and in athletics!
The 5K Walk/Run has been rescheduled for next Saturday, May 18th. Forecasters at the National Weather Service are predicting light showers in the area between 9 and 11 in the morning. We want everyone to have a great experience on a sunny day, and the forecast currently shows the 18th as being bright and beautiful.
If you have prepaid and are unable to participate on the 18th, please contact the high school office, and we will issue a refund.
We welcome all to join us for a morning of FITNESS and FUN. Registration will be onsite from 8:00 until 8:40. Cost to participate is $20. All proceeds will be used for the Ware Shoals Community Fitness Center which is located on the campus of the high school.
Contact us at 864-456-7496 (extension 1) if you have any questions.
Tomorrow morning we will have a special event that you can view on Facebook Live. Tune in between 8 am and 10:30 am to watch our students live. No matter where you will be, we will be on our Destination... Graduation!
Just a reminder of the "No More Excuses" Walk/Run on Saturday! Come out to get a little exercise and to socialize with others in support of fitness initiatives in our district. You can do the 2 mile walk/stroll or you can do the 5K walk/run if you're a little more adventurous.
Meet us at the high school gym. The 2 mile walk will begin at 8:45 and the 5K will begin at 9:00. Register onsite from 8:00 - 8:40. The cost is $20 per person.
Student/Athletes,
Our Athletic Banquet will be held on May 7, 2019. Dinner will be served to the student/athletes only, starting at 5:30 pm. Dinner will be served in the high school lunch room. The awards portion of the evening will start at 6:45 pm in the high school auditorium. Your families are invited to the 6:45 pm awards portion of the evening. Please talk to your coaches about appropriate attire for the evening. We look forward to honoring all of your hard work that evening.
May 6th, 2019, students will no longer be able to charge to their lunch accounts. Please pay any outstanding balances before May 24, 2019. If you have any concerns, contact Sharon Mann @ 456-3679 or your school cafeteria. Thank you!
The Purple and Gold
How do you spell W-I-N-N-E-R?
These super spellers competed in the District Spelling Bee today. Our district winner / WSMS winner is Kimarion Gillerson (pictured on right). Coming in first place for WS Primary was Yuchen Lin (left).
Congratulations to the other participants for qualifying for the district final by winning their classroom spelling bee!
Front Row-Josie Gambrell, Dustin Strickland, Rachel Owings, Landon Dowis, Carson Coleman
Back Row- Dixiemay Laughlin, Faith Holbrooks, Yuchen Lin, Kimarion Gillerson, Andrew Gonzalez, Jace Stewart, Julian Dyal
This Thursday, May 2, 7th grade students will host a "World Fair" from 5-6 pm. Each student researched a country and created a presentation for our community, including food, native clothing, and much more. Students will tell visitors about the country and answer questions.
Please join us at WS Middle / Elementary on West Main Street this Thursday!
We are happy to announce that Coach Gilbert is returning to WSHS. He will teach Chemistry, coach golf, and sponsor the newly formed Fishing Club. Join us in welcoming him back to the family!
Here is the schedule and registration form for "Best Singer in the Region" auditions, which will be this Friday. April 26th.
Come "TailCATE" with us today at 5PM before the softball game to see what our CATE (Career and Technology Education) students have been learning this year. We'll have food, drinks, fun, and a free ticket to the game for you! It's Senior Night, and the girls need you to cheer them on to victory!
TailCATE is in front of the Darby Building. See you there!
Another fine addition to the WSSD51 family...
Meet Ms. Webb, the newest member of the WS Middle-Elementary faculty. Her goal is "to provide the best instruction and life-learning experiences for my students." Ms. Webb is a Highly Qualified Science and Social Studies teacher and leader with more than 10 years of teaching experience. WELCOME to WSSD 51!
Ms. Gina Dunn is the newest member of the WSSD51 family! Ms. Dunn will be teaching Math at Ware Shoals High School next year. She comes to us from Lander University, where she served as Tenured Associate Professor/Education Specialist. Her parents are WSHS alumni, so she feels right at home here. Let's give her a big Ware Shoals welcome!
Mr. Parada's class speaks with students in Colombia via a video conference session. The students discuss ways of life in a different country. Technology continues to enhance students' education in our district.
Friday afternoon, a few PM bus riders from Buses 5, 6, 7, and 8 will be 10-15 minutes late getting home due to the balloon release at WSH.
We are happy to welcome Katie Warnken to the WSSD51 family! Ms. Warnken will be teaching Math at Ware Shoals High School next year. She recently completed her student teaching at WSHS, and she looks forward to beginning her teaching career with us.
PLEASE NOTE: A change of time for the balloon release in memory of Trinity Harrison has been announced. The release will take place at 2:45 Friday afternoon on the front lawn of the high school. Please join us in remembrance of Trinity.
Arrangements for Trinity Harrison have been announced by her family. A balloon release will be held on the front lawn of WSHS Friday evening at 7PM.
Her funeral will be conducted at 3PM Saturday at Little River Baptist Center, located at 415 Riley Rd N, Hodges, SC 29653.
Today we gathered at Ware Shoals High to celebrate and mourn. We celebrated the good times shared with Trinity Harrison and the fact that she made all the right choices on prom night. We mourned because we will no longer share our lives with her. We will keep her family and friends in our prayers, and we will keep her in our hearts forever.
Dr. Fay Sprouse, Superintendent
All students please gather in the auditorium in the morning when you arrive to school. The cafeteria will be open at 7:30 for breakfast and the back stairs to the auditorium will be available.
Please gather among friends as we will have folks to assist in our
time of grief.
The Purple and Gold 4.2.19
REMINDER - PLEASE JOIN US TOMORROW
Sybil and Mike Conley lost their 20-year old daughter Zoë to a heroin and fentanyl overdose on May 24, 2017, the unfortunate end to a five-plus year odyssey through the opioid epidemic, the drug and alcohol treatment community, the healthcare system, and criminal justice.
They will tell their story and present facts about addiction--and opioids in particular--at a special assembly Thursday, April 4 at 9 a.m. at Ware Shoals High. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.
Spirit has restored our fiber connection. Our phones are now working properly. We apologize for the inconvenience. Have a great day!
Our School District is experiencing a phone outage due to a Spirit fiber cut in the Greenville area. Please use the following numbers for an emergency: 864-378-4379 for the Primary School, 864-377-0599 for the Middle School and 864-377-0578 for the High School. Thank you!
****Reminder****
All WSHS students who plan to attend the prom MUST be in attendance at the program on Thursday morning.
Failure to attend may result in forfeiture of admission.
Congratulations Julie (1st) and Ethan (2nd) for winning the 400 meter race in the Area 5 Spring Games today!
It's a beautiful day to be LEARNING, SERVING, LEADING and READING in WSSD51!
Have you read a good book lately?
The WS School District 5K Walk-Run/2-Mile Walk is now underway! The event will be held on Saturday, May 11th. Start time for the 2-mile walk is 8:45 am and for the 5K is 9:00 am. Proceeds go to the District's Wellness Program. Click the link to register https://5il.co/71x8
Congratulations to Nikki Rodriguez for receiving the South Carolina Association of Title I Administrators (SCATA) Scholarship. Nikki was recognized in Columbia, SC for her academic success and extracurricular involvement. Way to go Nikki!
The Purple and Gold
Tonight’s softball game vs Dixie has been moved to Monday April 1st. JV begins at 5:00.
The soccer match vs Anderson Christian scheduled for Thursday March 28th is now an AWAY match beginning at 5:00.
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Students are doing great work in our district! Channing Smith's Senior Project product - a music festival - will benefit the Million Dollar Band. Here is Channing, presenting a check for $520 to the band. Thanks for using your Senior Project to LEARN, SERVE, and LEAD, Channing!
Today, Squad 51 learned a new skill - taking blood pressure readings. Did you know that the instrument used to take blood pressure readings is called a sphygmomanometer?
Ware Shoals High School will be hosting a CTE (Career and Technology Education) Advisory meeting on March 21st at 5:30pm. This meeting is open to the public and will showcase how WSH is equipping students with skills needed for today's workforce. We would enjoy having you join us! (location: top floor of WSH).
The Purple and Gold
Congratulations to Miss Reesie Beckner, a student at Ware Shoals Middle School, upon being selected as the recipient of South Carolina's "Yes, I Can!" award. Reesie was chosen for excellence in the arts despite having a hearing impairment.
Purple and Gold
WSP Celebrates Read Across America Day! Students lined the halls at Ware Shoals Primary School and spent time reading independently - just for fun!
"The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go!" - Dr. Seuss
Safety is our top priority. Keeping children safe from offensive, vulgar content on the internet is a big challenge. We recently learned of inappropriate content that is being embedded into YouTube videos that seem, on the surface, to be appropriate for children. For that reason, we are removing access to YouTube from student devices today.
Community Engages in Planning for the Future...Thanks to those who came out to help as we update our five year plan. Together, we examined progress in meeting our goals. We all agree - working together is the way we will help our children achieve and our community thrive!
Ware Shoals High School Agricultural classes and Mr. Ryan Gambrell, would like to thank Mr. Jerry Free and Capsugel, a Lonza Company, for the recently donated hydroponic tower.
It will be utilized by our students as we attempt to grow our CATE curriculum.
The Purple and Gold
Very proud of our Squad 51 members who were recognized by House Representative John McCravy @JohnRMcCravyIII for outstanding service to our community!
Updated baseball, soccer, and softball schedules. Here is the link:
https://www.gwd51.org/o/ware-shoals-high-school/page/student-athletics-schedules
The Senate's education reform bill (S. 419) will be the subject of a public hearing at McCormick Middle School Gym on Monday, March 4th, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A sign in sheet will be available starting at 5:15 for those wishing to speak. Comments will be limited to three minutes.
If you are unable to attend, the subcommittee welcomes written testimony. Send remarks by email to seducomm@scsenate.gov or by mail to
SC Senate Education Committee
PO Box 142
404 Gressette Bldg.
Columbia, SC 29202
Reminder: We will meet today from 5-6PM for Strategic Planning in the Community Library training room. Come join the conversation about how we can prepare our students to be productive, contributing, and successful members of society. The school board will meet at 6PM in the conference room.
On Friday, February 22nd, we are asking all employees and students to park in the rear parking lot at the high school. Front spaces will be reserved for visitors to our 2:00 program. South Carolina High School League Commissioner, Jerome Singleton, will be our guest speaker.
WSHS FFA Officers
A Ware Shoals High School student was arrested today at school for making a verbal bomb threat. School officials and the SRO took swift action to ensure safety. Disciplinary policies will be followed. Keeping students safe is our priority!
Message from WSSD51: Bus #9 is running approximately 20-25 minutes behind. We appreciate your patience.
Great day of training in WSSD51! Our district continues to refine our emergency practices to ensure safe learning environments for our students and staff. Special thanks to law enforcement from Abbeville / Greenwood Counties, WSH's Squad 51, and our district nursing staff.
2019-2020
These students just finished reading a novel about the Salem Witch Trials and were put into groups and assigned topics that might be considered modern day witch hunts. The topics were: attitudes toward Japanese Americans after Pearl Harbor / attitudes toward Muslin Americans after 9/11 / attitudes toward communists during the cold war [McCarthyism]/ attitudes towards HIV/AIDS victims in the late 1980s.
This is the first time these students have done anything like this and were very nervous...they did a great job!
Dear WSSD 51 Parents,
Valentine’s Day is Thursday, and we want to inform you that schools may not accept deliveries of flowers, balloons, candy, etc. We can, however, provide an alternative.
If you wish to purchase flowers, balloons, etc. for your child, the local florist can send a gift card to the school, notifying him or her to stop by the shop to pick up a special surprise. Gift cards can be distributed at school without disruption to the learning process and in a discreet way so as not to embarrass children who do not receive them.
Occasional deliveries to the school during the year are allowed, but we do not allow balloons or flowers in glass vases on the buses at any time. If you choose to send your child something of this type for his/her birthday, please provide a ride home that day if your child usually rides a bus.
Thanks for your cooperation!
Sincerely,
Dr. Fay Sprouse Superintendent
Lady Hornets vs Wagener Salley tonight at 7:00 at The Bob Johnston Gymnasium.
Only South Carolina High School League passes are allowed to be accepted.
Admission is 6:00 as determined by the SCHSL.
Our deadline is quickly approaching!
The final day to buy a high school yearbook is Feb. 21st. Yearbooks are $60 and can be purchased in the front office of the high school. Get yours before it is too late!
Watch Channel 4 at 6PM tonight to see Rev. James Davis, driver of Bus 8, be recognized for being a "CommUNITY Champion." This is a series which highlights people who bring local communities closer together. We thank Rev. Davis & all who help make our district & community better!
Big turn out for tonight's SAT prep session! We are very proud of these students for putting in the extra effort! BTW, pizza disappeared fast during the break! :)
Congratulations Evan Bridges! Go Flying Fleet!!
Buses 1, 2 and 3 will be late picking up this morning. Expect a 15-30 minute delay.
Attention to those who walk or bike to WSH or WSE/M: Very cold temperatures are forecast for mid-week, so morning bus transportation will remain available. Same pickup times & locations: (6:25) 14 Smith St. (6:35) Corner Store Gas Station (7:10) Corner of West Main St & Riegel
Attention to those who walk or bike to WSH or WSE/M:
Very cold temperatures & rain are forecast for next week, so morning bus transportation will be available.
Pickup times & locations:
(6:25) 14 Smith St.
(6:35) Corner Store Gas Station
(7:10) Corner of West Main St & Riegel
Thanks to all the parents, students, and community members who attended WSH's School Improvement Council! Tonight's meeting was filled with great conversations regarding curriculum expansion, school safety and WSH's recent report card.
Congratulations to Josh Hallman, District Teacher of the Year, one of 30 teachers from across the nation selected to attend the National School Safety Summit in Birmingham, AL. Teachers will work together to develop proactive solutions to prevent and address school shootings.
So proud of our students who showed up for the first ACT prep session! These students are motivated and focused on their goals. The pizza was good too!
Squad 51 members Will Lindley and Hunter McGee urge you to Be Hornet Smart
Message from WSH: Parents are encouraged to attend a School Improvement Council meeting on Jan 17th at 6:00pm. We plan to discuss school safety, our recent report card and the new proposed Program of Study- including new dual credit options. Look forward to see you there!
"Buzz"-er Beater - The WSM school boys basketball team defeated Calhoun Falls Charter last night on a last second shot. Final score 27-26. Way to go boys!
WSHS AP students attend a poetry workshop in the Gunter Theater at the Peace Center.
Good News Club begins January 14th.
Congratulations to WSH students Seth Alexander and Timothy Johnson who have been selected by Fuji Films for internships. Both students are currently part of the Greenwood EDGE – a mechatronics based program offered at Piedmont Technical College.
Reminder:
During the October board meeting, our trustees voted to use January 21 as our make-up day for the day we missed in September due to the hurricane. It is the first designated make-up day in our school calendar.
Jan. 21st is now a school day for students.
We would like to wish everyone a safe and healthy 2019. Happy New Year!
Our NEW web page is live! Go to www.gwd51.org to check it out. Follow us on Twitter at @ware_shoals_51 as well.
Squad 51 is getting recognition in Canada! The ACT Foundation read about Squad 51 and contacted Mr. Cox. They are going to use our district as a model for doing great things there. They profiled S51 on their FB page.
https://www.facebook.com/theactfoundation/
The Class Ring Ceremony was held today at WSHS. Juniors, Seniors, and their family members gathered to recognize this important milestone. Thanks to all who attended!
Fantastic win tonight for the Lady Hornets who defeated Whitmire 40-35! It was also a special night for Channing Smith who scored her 1000th point!
Honoring Heroes! Students, parents, community members and local veterans gathered at WSH to celebrate Veterans Day. Special guest Captain Annie Odom (class of 2006) was a fantastic speaker and made our event truly special!
Special thanks to Ware Shoals and Western Laurens Fire Departments for visiting WSSD 51 today and recruiting students for our local Explorer Program.
Attention Seniors
After school theatre program at WSH started today! We are excited to have so many of our students interested in participating!
WSHS Report Cards will be sent home today. They will be distributed during 4th period. Please call the school should you require a teacher conference.
864-456-7923
High School Report Cards will be distributed during parent conferences from 3:00 - 6:00 pm on Thursday 10/25/18.
The football game vs McCormick will follow at 7:30.
The varsity football game at home vs McCormick has been moved to Thursday night at 7:30....due to inclement weather predictions.
Bus 7 will run approximately 1 hour late this afternoon (10/22).
A school bus from Abbeville School District had an accident on Highway 25 near Burger King in Ware Shoals. Emergency personnel and law enforcement are on the scene. We are assisting with emergency operations.
WSSD 51 Teacher of the Year Recognized. Josh Hallman was recognized by our School Board Monday night as the 2018-19 Teacher of the Year. Congratulations Mr. Hallman!
Training tomorrow’s teachers! We are excited about WSSD 51’s teacher cadet program. Today our students visited Lander University and learned about the courses and requirements needed to become a certified teacher.
WSSD 51 School Board visited our schools to get an up close glance at the great things taking place in our district.
Hydroponics coming to Ware Shoals High! Students in our Ag. Science classes will soon be introduced to cutting edge farming techniques.
Bus #2 will be late this morning. Breakfast will be served.
Check out this Thrillshare training information http://5il.co/4mvw
We're excited to start the new school year!
Welcome to our new website!
