We look forward to welcoming students back to school next week! Monday, January 25th is A Day (Purple Hornets) and Tuesday, January 26th is B Day (Gold Hornets). Please be sure your child wears a mask to enter school or to the bus stop to board the bus. School staff will monitor students for wearing masks, social distancing, and hand washing. Please do not allow your child to get on the bus or enter the school if sick. If a family member or close contact has COVID symptoms, do not send your child to school. Call your school nurse to get advice. We offer rapid COVID testing onsite for students and staff.
Here is a link to an article by a doctor from MUSC. It may help those who are anxious about returning.
https://web.musc.edu/about/news-center/2021/01/19/data-on-covid-in-charleston-county-schools-stun-doctor-who-crunched-the-numbers
DESTINATION...GRADUATION!
This REMINDER is for all students enrolled in the Distance Learning Program and children not enrolled at WSSD 51. A Parent/Guardian or student must sign up to receive free breakfast and lunch meals for their student/child starting Tuesday, January 19, @ 9:00 am and will end Thursday, January 21 @ 3:00 pm for next week’s meals (1/25 – 1/29/21). All meals will be available for curbside pick-up on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 – 11:00 am at each schools chosen location. The meal form can be accessed on our districts webpage and Facebook page at this link https://rb.gy/6voqf4. Contact Food Service for more information.
Note: Sign up is required each week for all meal request and will begin after 3:00 pm each Thursday and end the following Tuesday at 3:00 pm to ensure meal access for the following week of meals***
All A/B Hybrid schedule students will receive their meals at school and do not need to sign up online.
Meals will be free to all students enrolled in WSSD 51 and to children in our community. Children must be 18 years or younger and do not have to be enrolled at WSSD 51 to be eligible to receive meals.
WSSD51 E-Learning/Distance Learning pick up meal plan REMINDER: All requests need to be completed for free breakfast and lunch meals for ALL students and children 18 years and younger in our community to receive meals for the week of January 18 - 22. Please sign up by this Thursday, January 14th by 3:00 pm. Meals may be picked up curbside at each schools' chosen location Monday, January 18th (2 day meals) and Wednesday, January 20th (3 day meals) from 10:00 – 11:00 am. If you have already signed up for next week's meals, please disregard this request. Please contact Sharon Mann, Food Service Director, with any questions @ 864-456-7496, Thank you!
Please sign up using this link: https://rb.gy/6voqf4
The Board of Trustees met today to discuss our return to school. They considered the data, acknowledging all time high numbers of COVID cases and deaths in our area since Christmas. They decided to wait until January 25th to return to the A/B model. Please observe the safe practices that you’ve heard over and over and encourage others to do so as well, so that we will start to see a downward trend in cases! January 25th will be an A day (Purple Hornets). Athletic conditioning may resume next week. We will continue to offer breakfast and lunch pickup at each school location until students return. You will receive a link to sign up soon. Thanks for your patience as we strive to provide a safe environment for our staff and students.
Dr. Fay Sprouse, Superintendent
Here is a link to the Modified Year-Round Calendar that we will transition to in 2021-22. This year, summer vacation will be 6 weeks longs, but there are longer breaks throughout the year.
https://5il.co/oeue
WSSD51 E-Learning/Distance Learning pick up meal plan REMINDER: All requests need to be completed for free breakfast and lunch meals for ALL students and children 18 years and younger in our community to receive meals for the week of January 11 - 15. Please sign up by this Thursday at 3:00 pm. Meals may be picked up curbside at each schools' chosen location Monday, January 11th and Wednesday, January 13th from 10:00 – 11:00 am. Please sign up using this link: https://rb.gy/6voqf4
Please contact Sharon Mann, Food Service Director, with any questions. 864-456-7496 Thank you!
During our return to virtual learning January 5th - 18th, we will provide FREE MEALS to ALL students and children 18 years and younger in our community. If you want your child(ren) to receive free breakfast and lunch, you must sign up in advance using the form at this link: https://rb.gy/6voqf4
Meals may be picked up curbside at schools from 10-11AM on these dates: January 6, January 11, and January 13. Sign up starts TODAY and ends Monday, January 4th @ 3:00 pm. for pickup on the 6th. Sign up will required again for the week of the January 11th, and may be done between 3PM on Monday (Jan. 4 ) and 3PM Thursday (Jan. 7) using the same link. Please contact Sharon Mann, Food Services Supervisor, with any questions (864-456-7496).
The Board of Trustees met today to discuss our return to school, considering the spike in COVID-19 cases from the Christmas break. They decided we would return to virtual instruction from January 5-18. They will meet again in 2 weeks to review the data and decide what to do starting January 19th.
Right now community spread is higher than it’s ever been, so we will take a pause in coming to school to learn. It is the safest choice, but it is not an easy choice. Board members and I understand and accept that there is no solution that will please everyone; however, the priority in our district has been and will remain safety for all. COVID-19 is a threat…an intruder…one that we take very seriously because it is highly contagious, it causes illness that is sometimes serious, and it can cause death, especially for those who have underlying health conditions. Many of our employees are at risk of having complications if they get the virus.
During the remaining holidays and the 10 days of virtual instruction, please observe the safe practices that you’ve heard over and over and encourage others to do so as well, so that we can get back to school Jan. 19th!
Dr. Fay Sprouse, Superintendent
WSHS girls' and boys' basketball games scheduled for Friday vs. Dixie have been postponed. A make-up date has not yet been determined.
We have added three important links on our district website under the COVID-19 tab, which is circled in red.
Please review and submit the electronic permission form if you agree for our nurses to administer COVID rapid tests if your child becomes symptomatic. Read all about it on our website.
If your child tests positive for COVID or if your child is a close contact of a positive case during the holidays we need you to report it to our district nurse using the electronic form or by calling 864-377-0587.
The district will be monitoring the numbers over the holidays and will announce by January 1st if there is a need to return to eLearning. Students are bringing all needed materials home today and tomorrow to be prepared in case that happens. The extra work brought home by some is not homework to be completed over the holidays.
We encourage everyone to follow the CDC guidelines of wearing a mask in public, socially distancing six feet, washing hands frequently, and avoiding social gatherings. These simple steps prevent the spread of COVID-19. Let's all do our part so that we can be back to a normal schedule soon after the holidays!
I enjoyed reading to Dr. Owens' 3rd and 4th grade Distance Learning students today! We read two books from my collection of Robert Sabuda pop-up books: 'Twas the Night Before Christmas and The 12 Days of Christmas. I fell in love with pop-up books when I was in primary school and started collecting them as an adult.
Wishing all of you a Merry Christmas from all of us at WSSD51! Please stay safe during the holiday break.
Dr. Fay Sprouse, Superintendent
Class Ring Ceremony December 16th in the WSHS Auditorium @ 2:00, masks are mandatory. Attendees will be screened for COVID symptoms prior to entering the building. The ceremony will also be live streamed for those who cannot or prefer not to attend.
Each ring recipient will be given two tickets to the ceremony. Ticketed guests and ring recipients may enter starting at 1:30. Guests must sit in unmarked (not taped) seats to allow for social distancing to the extent possible. Students will sit in the section on the right (facing the stage) in their assigned seats. When called up to receive their rings, students will remain on stage. After all students have received their rings, they will be asked to place them on their fingers at the same time. Students will then exit the auditorium, followed by visitors, to meet outside to show their rings to their family members.
Katie Pulley, Media Specialist at Ware Shoals Middle, serves on the board of the Ware Shoals Community Foundation. Here, she is presenting a donation from the foundation to Catfish Feastival board members Rick and Teresa Holland.
WSSD51 teachers care about our students and about our community. They LEARN, SERVE, and LEAD to make WSSD a great place to live and to learn!
A wonderfully positive story about the way we Learn SERVE and Lead!
BLOOD DRIVE
DECEMBER 7, 2020
SIGNUP: https://donate.thebloodconnection.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/155786
We are very thankful for our students, especially those who look for ways to help others. This is Eli Burton, an 11th grader at WSHS, who bought paper sacks while working at an auction this past weekend. He donated them to our Food Service program! What a great way to SERVE others, by providing supplies for sack lunches. Thanks, Eli....you embody our motto "LEARNING, SERVING, LEADING," and we appreciate you!
The Annette Batson Memorial Thanksgiving Luncheon will not be served this year.
“It is with great regret we are unable to celebrate and continue the tradition this year, but health and safety concerns are a priority,” said Paul Anderson, principal of Ware Shoals High School. “We look forward to continuing our tradition next year.”
Dawn Amerson, Executive Director of Five Star Senior Living, began overseeing the preparation of the Thanksgiving luncheon the year after Mrs. Batson’s death. Amerson, along with Chefs throughout the Five Star organization, cook and serve a traditional meal to members of the Ware Shoals community.
“Out of an extreme abundance of caution during this pandemic, we will not host the community Thanksgiving luncheon this year. A majority of citizens who normally attend the Thanksgiving luncheon have major underlying medical issues and putting one life at risk is not something we are willing to do,” said Amerson. “We look forward to continuing the tradition next year.”
Since 2011, Mrs. Batson, former Family and Consumer Science instructor at WSHS, along with her students prepared a Thanksgiving luncheon for the greatest generation. She taught her students to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving meal, all the while teaching them how to give back to the community.
Our scheduled date for returning to five day instruction, November 23, has been changed due to the increase in COVID19 cases in our counties and the chance that students, their families, and our staff will be attending gatherings over the holidays where exposure may occur.
The new target date for reopening with five day instruction is January 14, the first day of the second semester. This is an additional 23 days of the hybrid schedule. We thank you for your understanding and patience as our Board of Trustees and I put safety first.
If your child has had close contact with a positive COVID19 case or with anyone with symptoms, call our district nurse at 377-0587. Do not send your child to school until she advises you of what to do.
Ware Shoals High School is excited to announce a new team established this year for our students. Please use the QR code below to donate to our team. Thank you in advance for your support and Go Hornets!
Bus 9 will be about an hour late tomorrow AM. It may also be late in the PM. We will let you know when we find out.
News from the District Nurse:
Mask wearing has become the new norm. The students in our district have adjusted well and have been very good at wearing their mask. Since mask wearing is a daily routine, how to store and clean them are very important. The following are some tips on storing and washing your child’s mask.
Store your cloth mask properly and wash it regularly to keep it clean. Consider having more than one mask on hand so that you can easily replace a dirty mask with a clean one.
Wash your cloth mask whenever it gets dirty or at least daily. If you have a disposable face mask, throw it away after wearing it once.
Using a washing machine
It is okay to include your mask with your regular laundry. Use regular laundry detergent and use the warmest settings on the washer that is safe for the material, or wash your mask with tap water and laundry detergent or soap. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove detergent or soap.
Dry your mask completely in a warm or hot dryer use the warmest setting on the dryer that is safe for the material, or hang your mask in direct sunlight to dry completely. If you cannot hang it in direct sunlight, hang or lay it flat and let it dry completely.
Due to increasing threat of high winds from remnants of Hurricane Zeta that are predicted for our area, B Day (Gold Hornets) will have an eLearning day tomorrow. Students must log into their Schoology or Seesaw account to be counted present. A Day students (Purple Hornets) will return to school on Friday. Stay safe, everyone!
The Board of Trustees voted unanimously in favor of returning to the traditional model of instruction (5 days, face to face) beginning November 23. Today we learned that the company helping us needs one more week to get all materials in (demand is very high right now) and to finish making and installing everything. Starting on November 23 will give teachers and students 2 days (23rd and 24th) to learn and practice new routines and safety procedures for being all together again. After Thanksgiving, we'll have three weeks of productivity before the Christmas break.
Schedule for next week:
Monday, November 2nd, is an eLearning day for all students and Parent-Teacher Conference Day.
Tuesday, November 3rd, is Election Day and a holiday for students and staff.
Wednesday the 4th, we resume school with B Day (Gold Hornets).
The Board of Trustees will have a called meeting tomorrow, October 27th, at 4pm to consider a recommendation that students return to school full time on November 16th. This is basically a formality, as they have already given their approval to take steps to get ready for 5 day, face-to-face instruction.
All schools will have the best PPE that is available. Acrylic shields are being made for tables and desks, and will be installed by November 12 (photos here are from schools in Spartanburg 6). Combined with the other measures that are already in place, schools will be safe places for children.
We are looking forward to having all students under one roof again!
Hello parents. This school year has definitely been a challenging year for everyone. We appreciate your understanding as we wade through all the unknowns and changes COVID-19 has brought. We are diligently keeping up with guidelines from DHEC and CDC in an effort to support the safety of our staff and students. If your child, someone in your household, or a close contact of your child is tested for COVID, please keep your child at home and call your child’s school or the District Nurse Tonja Lindle @ 864-377-0587. If you need assistance with an
appointment at a testing facility, contact your child’s school or Tonja Lindle, the District Nurse. As a benefit for our students, Abbeville Respiratory Clinic has graciously agreed to prioritize testing for any student we serve. Our main objective is to keep our staff and students safe and in class as much as possible.
Thanks for your help!
Tonja Lindle, District Nurse
Barring any further COVID-19 complications, our Board of Trustees has given the blessing to bring students back to school five days a week as soon as we can get our classrooms fully outfitted with the best PPE that is being offered right now, plexiglass partitions.
Our goal is to return by November 11th, a little less than 4 weeks away; however, we may need a few more days for the vendors to fill our order, assemble the items, and install them. We will keep you updated on our progress and give you ample notice of the date we will be able to return.
We appreciate the patience you've shown so far during the virtual and the hybrid instructional models. We look forward to the time when all of our learners return to the traditional schedule, all being taught together by our talented, caring teachers!
DHEC is offering Free Flu Clinic for Ware Shoals Students. Please click the link below for more information!
https://5il.co/m43j
Clemson University is conducting a study on Food & Well Being. For more information please click the link below.
https://5il.co/lxc1
REMINDER: "Farmers to Families" Food Box giveaway is tomorrow from 9-11 at Ware Shoals High. Pull in the circle and a box will be loaded in your car. First come, first served, while supplies last!
The box is packed with fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meat. This is a USDA program which benefits farmers, ranchers, and others who produce food which, in turn, benefits families in economically distressed areas.
Ware Shoals vs Dixie football ticket information:
Here is the link to the school website. The guidelines and Ticket Spicket link for digital tickets are located on the page. Tickets will go on sale Monday, October 12 at 8AM and close Thursday, October 15 at 11:59PM. Thank you!
https://www.acsdsc.org/o/dixie-high-school
Ware Shoals School District has participated in the Healthy Learners Adult Spelling Bee since its inception in 2015, winning in 2016, 2018, and again this year. Congratulations to team members Maria Tyre, Fay Sprouse, Pat MacDonald, and Paula Taylor, members of "Plan Bee," for bringing the trophy back to Ware Shoals!
Healthy Learners is a non-profit organization that partners with school nurses and local medical providers to offer access to health care to eligible children. Costs for health care services, transportation, and follow-up are paid for by Healthy Learners. If you want to learn more or make a tax deductible contribution, visit their website:
www.healthylearners.com
Plans are underway for a massive food distribution Friday from the "Farmers to Families" program. We are getting a truck load of about 1,100 boxes, packed with chicken strips, sausage, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. We are excited about this opportunity to provide food for our employees, students, and community! Distribution will be in front of Ware Shoals High School from 9-11 FRIDAY or until the food is gone.
No proof of income or identification is required. This is a USDA program in partnership with farmers, ranchers, and other food producers and distributors. A lot of food that would normally be sold to restaurants is not being utilized due to the COVID-19 national emergency. This program helps their business, prevents waste, and helps families have access to fresh, healthy food.
Enter the front drive of Ware Shoals High School and drive around. A volunteer will place the box in your vehicle. Limit 2 boxes per family.
FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED...WHILE SUPPLIES LAST! The line may be long at times, but our student and church volunteers will get you through as quickly as possible.
Share this message - help us spread the word. We don't want any leftover food!
https://www.ams.usda.gov/selling-food-to-usda/farmers-to-families-food-box
https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2020/09/29/farmers-families-food-box-program-surpasses-100-million-boxes
Here is the updated Hornet Football Schedule, which was revised yesterday. We will have 2 home games and 3 away games.
Whitmire @ Ware Shoals Monday, Oct. 12 7:00
Ware Shoals @ Dixie Friday, Oct.16 7:30
McCormick @ Ware Shoals Friday, Oct.23 7:30 (Homecoming & Senior Night)
Ware Shoals @ Southside Christian Friday, Oct.30 7:30
Ware Shoals @ Calhoun Falls Friday, Nov. 6 7:30
Here is our revised schedule, approved by Region I Class A. The first varsity home game will be Monday, October 12th.
All tickets sold for the Whitmire game are still valid. There will be no refunds.
Homecoming and Senior Night are tentatively planned for the second home game vs McCormick on October 23rd.
2020 CENSUS...only 14 days remain! The census impacts schools, educators, students, and families for the next 10 years. We're below our 2010 response rate, which could decrease funding for schools for the next ten years. It only takes 10 minutes...please be counted!
Help us share this message, too.
https://my2020census.gov/
D51 Bus Station Ribbon Cutting
Today bus drivers moved to their new "home" at 42 Sparks Avenue. This property has been used for storage for several years, but a portion of it has been renovated as the D51 Bus Station. This space provides the facility needs for sanitizing buses each day - power, water, and storage space.
We appreciate our drivers and all they will be doing to keep our students safe.
"The Wheels on the Bus" will go "'round and 'round" beginning Monday, as students return to school on the A/B schedule. Purple Hornets attend Monday (Group A) and Gold Hornets attend Tuesday (Group B).
Pictured, from left: Mr. Wooten, Rev. Davis, Ms. Stewart, Ms. Story, Ms. Wells, Dr. Sprouse, Ms. Wagner, Ms. Hellams, and Ms. Thomas.
Be sure to take a look at the resources here on our website.
Under the COVID-19 link, found on the district website's banner, you'll find Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 and the Hotspots/Internet Connections, the DHEC Exclusion List, Quick Facts, and many others.
The A/B Calendar is found under the Reopen 2020 link, showing the Purple Hornet and Gold Hornet days.
If you have any questions, reach out to us. We're happy to help!
WSSD 51 has been approved to provide FREE MEALS to ALL students and children 18 years and younger in our community. Children do not have to be enrolled in WSSD 51 to be eligible.
All Distance Learning students and children not enrolled in our district must sign up (use link below) to receive the free meals for pick-up Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 am – 11:00 am.
SIGN UP TODAY OR TOMORROW by 3:00PM to ensure meals for next week.
Sign up is required each week for all meal requests and will begin after 3:00 pm each Thursday and end the following Tuesday at 3:00 pm.
Sign up here for next week's meals:
https://rb.gy/6voqf4
Elearning and Distance learning meals will be ready for pickup and delivery starting Thursday August 27th. Bus delivery meals will go out from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm at the Ware Shoals High School. Beginning Monday, August 31st, we will start our meal pickup and delivery of meals on Mondays and Wednesdays while elearning and distance learning programs are in progress. Please contact our Food Services Supervisor with any questions or concerns. Thank you!
WSSD51 E-Learning/Distance pick up & delivery meal plan
REMINDER: After 3 pm today, all requests need to be completed for breakfast and lunch meals for enrolled students of WSSD 51 to receive meals for the week of Aug 31st to Sept 8th. This plan requires families to sign up prior to the Thursday of each week at 3:00 pm. Please sign up using the link below. Please read the form carefully for more detailed information. Thank you!
https://rb.gy/6voqf4
WSSD 51 has implemented a meal plan for students to participate in pick up/delivery of breakfast & lunch during eLearning or Distance learning. This plan requires families to sign up in advance using the form in the link below. Sign up now!
https://rb.gy/6voqf4
Congratulations to the 2020-21 School Teachers of Year (TOY):
Samantha Smallwood: Ware Shoals Primary
Alicia Atherton: Ware Shoals Elem/Middle
Kerri Pratt: Ware Shoals High
We are proud of all of our teachers, and we offer our sincere congratulations to these ladies for being selected by their peers to represent their school this year!
Pictured are newly named TOYs with the 2019-20 TOYs, being congratulated by Rep. John McCravy and Supt. Fay Sprouse.
Top (L to R): Mrs. Pratt, Mrs. Smallwood, Mrs. Atherton
Bottom (L to R): Mrs. Guess, Ms. Holley, Mrs. Livingston
At the board meeting yesterday, our regional DHEC Director, Dr. Kandi Fredere, presented the weekly COVID-19 data report from 8-10-2020. (These reports are released each Monday.)
All counties of SC are still “HIGH RISK” based on the Incidence Rate, Trend in Incidence Rate, and Percent Positive.
Our Reopening Plan, approved by the State Superintendent and our School Board, follows the AccelerateED Task Force recommendations. After Dr. Fredere presented the data, our board affirmed its previous decision to begin the year with the Hybrid: eLearning instructional plan, based on the HIGH RISK rating for our area.
As we continue to assess the conditions, we will decide when we can transition to the A/B model, then on to the Traditional. Our ultimate goal is to have all under one roof, being educated by our terrific teachers, but right now we are committed to providing high quality instruction virtually, engaging students in learning each day.
LEAP days for students in 5K-8th grade will still be August 17-21, but students will be scheduled to come meet with their teacher individually. Teachers will set up parent/teacher/student conference times to prepare them for eLearning days and to do some assessments. 4K orientation plans will be shared with parents by Principal Morrison.
Registration for school begins tomorrow, the 11th, from 2-7 at each of our schools. Please remember to bring your child so that we may issue his/her laptop or iPAD for instruction this year. The technology and agenda fee is $30.
If you cannot make it tomorrow, registration will also be held Wednesday, the 12th, from 7:30 until 12:30.
ALL students must register in person at school, including those who are in the Distance Learning Academy and those who have pre-registered online so that we may issue technology devices.
THANKS!
WSSD51’s preregistration portal is now open. SNAPCODES and registration info have been sent to student email accounts. If you have problems you can call your child’s school for his/her SNAPCODE or complete the process at your child's school during registration days. It is important for students to join parents on our registration days, Aug 11th (11-7) or 12th (7:30-12:30), to finalize the process and pick up a laptop. All students, including those enrolled in our distance learning academy, must register. 5K-12th grade students will have a $30.00 Agenda/Technology Fee. Lots more information can be found here: http://wareshoalssc.apptegy.us/o/ware-shoals-school-district/page/online-registration--170?mode=edit
We are busy preparing for the reopening of school. You’ve had to consider whether your child will return to school on a hybrid schedule or participate in virtual learning.
The hybrid model is an A day / B day schedule. If the COVID statistics are favorable for a safe return, students will have face-to-face instruction 2 or 3 days a week. If not, students will eLearn under the direction of their teachers. Our goal is to get students back to school 5 days a week as soon as possible, and we hope the virus will subside soon so we can do that.
If you want your child in the Distance Learning Academy, the all-virtual option, the deadline to enroll is today. If you need additional information, please check our district website, and give us a call if you have any questions.
Cleaning equipment and supplies are arriving weekly, and we’re rearranging classrooms for social distancing. All staff will receive training on our new district cleaning protocols.
Our School Board meets today to approve final reopening details including a new start date, We will share the details Friday.
We will release more updates in the coming days. Please understand that all plans are subject to change as we ensure the safety of our students.
Thanks for your patience, your support, and for choosing our district.
We will achieve our goal….DESTINATION GRADUATION…for the class of 2021 and all those to follow!
VACANCIES: We are in need of Special Education (SPED) instructional assistants at Ware Shoals Primary. SPED programs are structured to meet the unique needs of students. Experience in Applied Behavior Analysis is preferred. An application and interview is required. Please contact Jason Morrison, Principal, if interested. 864-456-7496, Extension 4300.
Yesterday, the school board approved a flexible Hybrid Model for reopening school. This model will allow the district to make adjustments to instructional delivery based upon current health conditions. Within the hybrid model are 2 options:
A/B Schedule: Students will be placed in cohorts and will receive some face to face instruction and some virtual assignments each week. This allows our district to more effectively implement social distancing and new safety protocols.
eLearning: If the risk is too high for students to receive face to face instruction, learning will take place virtually until conditions improve.
Parents have the option of enrolling child(ren) in a 100% virtual program for the semester or for the year. We will provide information and an application this week.
The board will hold another meeting soon to decide the start date, which will be delayed from August 17th. Alternate start dates to be considered are August 24, 31 or September 8.
Five LEAP days for students in 4K-8th grade will be scheduled prior to the start date. Students will report to school in small groups for orientation and assessments. The dates for LEAP will be announced after the start date is determined.
VOTE TOMORROW...Tuesday, July 14th...in the Board of Trustees election. Two seats must be filled. The candidates are: Genie McDill, Cody Quinn, Joey Ward, and Andy Wood.
All registered voters who live in WSSD51, whether in Abbeville, Laurens, or Greenwood Counties may vote for school board! You don't have to live in the Town of Ware Shoals.
Please remind your friends and family members. Show your support of education in our district by voting to elect our leaders!
VOTE in the election to select two school board members for WSSD51 school board. Two of four candidates will be chosen for three-year terms. All registered voters of WSS51 in all three counties we serve need to come out in support of our students and our district.
Precautionary measures will be in place for your protection from COVID-19!
Pictured is the list of precincts for this election.
Please remember to vote next Tuesday, July 14th! Four candidates are vying for two seats on the Board of Trustees. Genie McDill, Cody Quinn, Joey Ward, and Andy Wood are the candidates.
All registered voters who live in WSSD51, whether in Abbeville, Laurens, or Greenwood Counties may vote for school board! You don't have to live in the Town of Ware Shoals. We will post the voting locations soon.
Please help us spread the word. We need a good turnout next Tuesday. Show our students you care enough about them to get out and vote!!!
A free three-day golf clinic for ages 9-18 will be offered the weeks of July 20 and 27 at the Ware Shoals Golf Course. The first session of the Phil Balentine Youth Golf Clinic, sponsored by the Ware Shoals Community Foundation, is scheduled for 5-7:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday of the first week, then repeat for other registrants during the same hours the second week. Several local college and high school golfers will be leading the instruction, which will be offered in a fun atmosphere to make the clinic enjoyable for all. Tentative plans call for a par three tournament to be held at the end of each week. Call 456-2623 to pre-register your youth.
DHEC data shows Greenwood and Laurens Counties at a HIGH level of COVID-19. For our students” and staff safety, we are postponing summer school for K-3 and athletics conditioning until further notice. We will continue to monitor the data and to keep you informed.
Please help stop the spread by taking all recommended precautions!
Here is a link to view each county’s data.
https://www.scdhec.gov/sites/default/files/media/document/COVID-19-Dz-Activity-Assessment-by-County-for-Dept-of-Ed_6.22.20.pdf
Cheer leading information below...
Form:
https://5il.co/hjst
Constitution:
https://5il.co/hjsu
Handbook:
https://5il.co/hjsv
VACANCY: We are in need of a Part-Time Food Service Operator at Ware Shoals Primary (20 hours per week).
Job duties include food prep and service, maintaining cleanliness of kitchen and cafeteria, and other related duties.
Anyone interested should contact Elaine Edens at 864-861-3453 or Jason Morrison at 864-861-2261.
Applications should be submitted by Tuesday, July 7th.
Ware Shoals High School 2020 graduation photos are now available at the link below.
https://www.flickr.com/gp/188822523@N06/5z98n3
Please join us in giving a warm Ware Shoals welcome to the newest members of our district family, Savanna Keefe (WSE/M) and Andrea Taylor (WSE/M). We welcome the return of Dede Brownlee to teach English at Ware Shoals High, after three years spent in retirement.
Ware Shoals Elementary/Middle seeks a School Nurse who, under the supervision of the Principal and District Nurse, promotes the health and well-being of all students by providing services such as assessments, first aid, counseling and emergency care. Apply online or in person. If you have questions, contact Principal Nancy Brown, nbrown@gwd51.org or 864-456-7496.
Attention parents!! If you get mail from the “National Society of High School Scholars” ...it is NOT affiliated with our high school.
Please....before you send any money to them... visit
https://www.bbb.org/us/ga/atlanta/profile/educational-consultant/the-national-society-of-high-school-scholars-0443-12000946
or call me.
Ware Shoals Primary School seeks a Teacher Assistant who, under the direction of a certified teacher, provides small group or individual instruction for identified students.
Apply online or in person. If you have questions, contact Principal Jason Morrison, jmorrison@gwd51.org or 864-861-2261.
What time is it???
It’s Ware Shoals Primary School PTO Duck Race Time!!!!
It’s our 8th annual WSPS PTO Duck Race! Due to COVID-19, we are selling our ducks a little differently this year. Ducks are now available for online purchase through our PayPal and Venmo accounts. You will not receive a raffle ticket this year, your receipt from your online purchase will be your entry into the race. Purchase as many ducks as you would like and help us raise money for our school. We will have our duck race at the park (details are below) and you do not have to be present to win. We will go live that day on Facebook and you can watch from the comfort of your home or wherever you like.
Cost Per Duck: $2.00 per duck.
Payment Options: PayPal (paypal.me/wspspto) or Venmo (www.venmo.com/wspspto)
When: Saturday, June 27, 2020
Time: 11:00 am
Where: Irving Pitts Memorial Park 2283 Power House Rd, Ware Shoals, SC 29692
Hosted By: WSPS PTO
Top Prizes:
Disney Package (10 tickets)
Great Wolf Lodge Package
Myrtle Beach Package
Sports Physicals for 2020-21 Ware Shoals Middle & High School students will be administered Wednesday June 24 beginning at 2:30 pm in the WSHS gym. The cost is $25. Students also can go to Doctors Care in Greenwood to receive physicals for the cost of $15. Physical forms can be obtained from the WSHS website
VACANCY: Ware Shoals High School - English. Apply on CERRA, and notify Principal Paul Anderson at panderson@gwd51.org if you would like to join our team!
Ware Shoals Middle School has been recognized as a 2019-20 National Beta School of Merit for dedication and commitment to academic excellence! Special thanks to WSM school principal Ms. Brown and Beta Club sponsor Mrs. Mobley for their commitment to the Beta Club program.
Please click the link below to view our WSHS 2020 Senior Slide Presentation.
https://youtu.be/uhNMmIFtxdk
The link below is another option to view yesterday's graduation. Please share the link below with your fiends that may not have Facebook. Thank you!
https://youtu.be/zYqMyvxiDJI
Seniors please retrieve your banners from the fence. Congratulations!!
Every effort is being made to hold the graduation ceremony outside. Please check periodically for updates here.
Each participant was given two tickets at practice this morning. No one will admitted without a ticket. Handicapped parking and seating is available on a first come, first served basis as always.
Learning...Serving...Leading....and THANKING Rachel McCarthy and her children for creating this wonderful thank you card for the staff of WSPS, our bus drivers, and our food service workers for all they have done this year. We know there are many thankful families out there, but it meant so much to all of us to see and read this homemade gift, created out of love!
The Tradition continues......Thank you Ken Buck!
Please follow the link below for more information about our Summer Feeding Program.
https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/730737/GREENWOOD_SCHOOL_DISTRICT_50_MEAL_PICK_UP.pdf
!!Attention Seniors!! Graduation practice is Wednesday (tomorrow) at 10:00 am. We will meet you in the gym. Please be prompt. Any out-standing materials must be turned in before graduation. Each participant will be given two tickets after practice. You MUST attend practice!
Graduating Hornet Anglers:
Blake McCarty- President
Will Lindley- Vice President
Thank you!
Coach Gilbert
WSHS
Seniors please come by today/tomorrow between 8-12 to pick up your t-shirts!
Please join us in giving a warm Ware Shoals welcome to the newest members of our district family!
Alyssa Blocker (WSP), Amber Hodge (WSP), Anna McCullough (WSE/M) and Melody Teal (WSE/M)
Seniors: Due to several requests for “in school” pictures, we can offer you this opportunity on one of the three "turn in" days. Bring your cap/gown and we’ll take your picture (with your camera/ phone).
Please, no other visitors…May 19th, 20th, or 21st by last name.
Congratulations to Eric Cox, District Safety Coordinator, for being a 2019-2020 LifeChanger of the Year (LCoY). LCoY is an annual program sponsored by National Life Group that recognizes and rewards K-12 educators and school employees across the country who are making a significant difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence and leadership.
https://bit.ly/2YDKM9S
Mr. Tim Allen, 2020 Purple and Gold Yearbook Dedication
!!Seniors!! Please come and have a front step picture taken even if you are not getting a yearbook! From 10-12 this morning!! We have caps/gowns to use if needed...
***********************ATTENTION*************************
Yearbook pickup from 10-12 on Thursday 5/7/20 in front of the high school. Seniors will take an individual cap/gown picture on the front steps…Please dress accordingly. We can provide cap/gown if needed for photo.
Alive @ 25
Seniors: We're planning a front step picture soon! We'll get an individual cap/gown picture (on the steps) when you pick up your yearbook. More information to follow. I MISS YOU ALL!!...yes, even the ones that just rolled their eyes at me.
Message from WSSD51: End of year details have been posted on our website under the eLearning tab. Information regarding WSP's final packet pick up and the final day of instruction is included. Check it out! https://www.gwd51.org/o/ware-shoals-school-district/page/elearning--13
The public is encouraged to ride through campus tomorrow evening, Please enter by the softball field, pass in front of the school and proceed around to the back lot to the baseball stadium exiting past the football ticket booth. Please remain in your vehicles on this route.
Stay safe and Go Hornets!
Lighting the Stadium
Tuesday night April 28th from 8:00-8:20, the stadium lights in Riegel Stadium will be turned on to honor the 2020 Senior Athletes at WSHS.
Today, Gov. McMaster announced that schools will not reopen this year. We understand the need to safeguard the health of our students and families. We will continue instruction through eLearning and learning packets. Let's work hard so we won't be behind when school resumes!
WSSD51 is changing meal delivery from 5 to 4 days per week - Monday through Thursday. Friday meals will be packaged with Thursday meals. If you are not receiving meals but would like to, call 864-456-7496.
Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Natalie Bishop to our learning community! She will teach at Ware Shoals Primary next year. WELCOME to WSSD 51!
GREAT JOB WARE SHOALS! Our self-response rate is at 45.4%, the highest in our area and higher than the state average. Let's keep Ware Shoals moving forward!
Go to MY2020CENSUS.GOV, Call 1-844-330-2020, or
mail the paper questionnaire. It's so easy, and there is no risk to you!
Today the O'Dell Corporation donated masks they made for our staff and volunteers - purple and gold ones to show our school pride! Join us in thanking them for supporting our school district and our community.
(Shown, L to R: Eric Cox, WSSD Safety Coordinator, Mark Lowe, O'Dell Corporation, Dr. Fay Sprouse, WSSD Superintendent)
Meal delivery and pick-up tomorrow (Apr 8) will supply food for Wed-Fri. Starting next week, drive-through pick-up of food at the high school will be 9-10:00 AM instead of 8-9:00 AM. Bus delivery times will remain the same. Stay well!
We have updated the WSSD51 eLearning plan! Log in to our website and use the eLearning link or paste this into your browser:
https://youtu.be/uPvRzB-Cyx4
These changes start Monday, April 13th, after spring break. Parents of students at WSPS are to pick up learning packets on the 13th, from 8-12. Have a wonderful break!
Everyone can look forward to a break from eLearning and Learning Packets next week. SPRING BREAK is almost here!
Learning packets for students in K-3rd grades should be picked up at WSPS the Monday after spring break - (April 13th) from 8-12. Those who have been working on learning packets may drop off completed work at that time as well.
Meal deliveries and pick-up will continue during spring break - Monday through Wednesday. On Wednesday, three days of food will be distributed.
If you have any questions, call the district or the school at 864-456-7496, tech support at 864-456-7500, or email us.
Stay healthy and safe!
We are experiencing high volume delays this morning with Schoology. We hope to have access later this afternoon. Thank you for your patience and understanding during these times. Have a good day!
Census data ensures our schools receive their fair share of resources. Ensuring every resident in South Carolina is counted during the 2020 census will help our schools for the next 10 years. Please go to www.my2020census.gov and complete your census today. Share this post and tag three friends challenging them to complete their census! #CountMeInSC #SCCounts2020
"The Ware Shoals Community Library will be closed until until further notice. We know how much our community depends on us. We hope our closure will keep our staff and patrons safe and healthy and reduce exposure to the coronavirus. We are strongly encouraging patrons to utilize our online services. Patrons with materials already checked out may return them to the book drop or keep them until we reopen. There will be no late fines for books that were checked out in Ware Shoals."
To All,
There was an issue this morning but I think all is well with Schoology, now. Please let your students know. Thank you!
Danny Frady, M.Ed.
Director of Technology
Ware Shoals School District 51
56 South Greenwood Ave. | Ware Shoals, SC 29692
864-456-7500
Prom
Today Gov. McMaster announced that SC schools will be closed through April 30. Our state superintendent will be providing guidance on student work soon, relaxing course and time requirements. We want students to continue learning but not be overwhelmed. More info coming soon!
Free breakfast and lunch for children ages 18 and under can be picked up from 8-9AM at the WSH cafeteria, behind the high school. Buses will deliver meals throughout the district starting at 8AM. We will serve any child! Stand outside to flag us down if not a regular bus rider.
Beginning 3-19-20 WSSD51 will provide free breakfast and lunch to children. Meals can be picked up at regular bus stops or students may pick up their meals from 8-9 AM. Pick up location is the WSH cafeteria, behind the high school. Children must be present to receive meals.
During this time of closure it is our top priority to help you stay healthy. Knowing how COVID19 is affecting our community will help us do just that. In order to know the effects that may impact our school, if you are a student or staff member please let the district nurse know if you are sick. Also, if you have any question regarding symptoms or prevention methods our district nurse will available via: phone, text and email. Below are ways to contact her:
Tonja Lindle, BSN, RN
District Nurse
Phone/Text: (864) 377-0587
Email: tlindle@gwd51.org
Please pick up personal items, computers, and learning packets at your school Wednesday from 8-12. Buses will deliver meals to students at regular bus stops between 8-9AM starting Thursday. Visit our website for info, access to eLearning and attendance requirements: www.gwd51.org
Today at 4PM, Gov. McMaster will close all SC schools until March 31st. Staff will be working tomorrow to get lessons prepared for students. We will be back in touch as soon as possible about how to access learning materials. All extracurricular activities are cancelled as well.
The Early Release Day, scheduled for March 25, has been moved to next Wednesday, March 18 to allow time for teachers to do emergency lesson plans. The State Dept. is requiring 2 weeks of plans in case DHEC orders schools closed due to the Coronavirus. We want to be prepared!
The LOCKOUT at WS Middle has been lifted. Ware Shoals Police, Greenwood County Sheriff, and WSSD District Security personnel conducted a perimeter search with nothing being found. Law enforcement advised that we were ALL CLEAR to return to normal activities.
Ware Shoals Middle School is on LOCKOUT (no one in, no one out). The School Resource Officer heard 6 gunshots OUTSIDE and law enforcement is investigating to determine the source. As soon as they clear us to lift the LOCKOUT, we will let you know.
School safety is our district’s first priority. There was an isolated incident last week at one of our schools that was handled swiftly and in a contained manner. However, public concerns about the incident now call for a public statement, which we are happy to provide:
On March 6th, a parent made an unauthorized visit to a classroom at Ware Shoals Primary. The parent addressed the class about bullying in a threatening manner by saying if it did not stop he would come to their house.
The district reported this to law enforcement and the parent was arrested and charged with disturbing school. All parents in the class received a call from the administration that day.
This week Mr. Cox, Safety Coordinator, met with the staff of each school to review safety protocols for visitors. Additional measures are being taken to prevent further incidents of this type.
Ware Shoals School District 51’s Board Policy KI clearly outlines the structure for public visits. We will continue to make efforts to ensure a safe learning environment for our students.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to call Eric Cox, Safety Coordinator, or Dr. Fay Sprouse, Superintendent, at 864-456-7496.
Health officials are currently taking steps to prevent the introduction and spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) into additional US communities. Schools are being asked to share information about the disease. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes it. Stopping the spread of the virus through everyday practices is the best way to keep people healthy.
More information on COVID-19 is available on our website (Menu>>Documents>>Forms and Links) and here: www.cdc.gov and www.scdhec.gov.
Four candidates have filed for two seats on our school board. They are: Genie McDill, Cody Quinn, Joey Ward, and Andy Wood. We thank these citizens for their interest in LEARNING, SERVING, and LEADING in our district as we educate our future leaders!
The school board election will be held May 12.
The Ware Shoals Schools Hall of Fame serves as a means of recognizing, preserving, and honoring individuals who made significant contributions to the academic and athletic programs at our schools, as well as our distinguished alumni and others who have excelled through their community
involvement or in the business world. The Hall of Fame program honors those whose deeds and character
exemplify outstanding achievement in their life’s work and/or service to their communities.
The categories for nominees are:
Distinguished Alumni
Distinguished Educator
Benefactor/Contributor
Nominations for the 2020 Hall of Fame are being accepted through April 1. Nominees may be deceased or living.
The nomination form may be accessed from our district website: www.gwd51.org. If unable to complete an online form, a hard copy may be obtained from the district office.
If you have any questions, call Dr. Sprouse at 864-456-7496.
Good Morning everyone!
The students of Ware Shoals High School will participate in a Black History Program starting at 2 pm today. If you would like to your students to view this program, please click the link below a few minutes before 2 pm to watch in real time. We hope everyone will be able to participate in this event.
Thank you!
https://livestream.com/accounts/11275489/events/9019164
Ware Shoals High School welcomes back Dr. Lawrence L. Sanders Jr., MD of the Grady Health System in Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Sanders is a 1973 graduate of Ware Shoals High and a former member of The Million Dollar Band serving as Drum Major his senior year.
Welcome Home Dr. Sanders!
Lawrence Sanders Jr. serves as the Senior Vice President for Utilization and Care Management at Grady Health System. He serves as the physician leader for clinical documentation improvement, value analysis, utilization review and management, case management, social work and medical staff services. Participatory engagement and innovation are the cornerstones of his management and leadership approach. .
Dr. Sanders brings more than 30 years of experience in health service delivery. He believes that good health is the result of individuals, groups, organizations, neighborhoods and communities working to create the conditions in every neighborhood and community to foster good health. As a physician leader, he strives to align clinical, financial and administrative imperatives. He background in epidemiology, management and organizational effectiveness, and clinical practice equips him to serve as a health service delivery subject matter expert and to communicate across clinical, financial and administrative organizational sectors.
Following a residency in internal medicine at Emory University School of Medicine, Dr. Sanders served in the Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) at the Centers for Disease Control. As an EIS officer, he expanded his scope of understanding of patient care beyond individual patients and families to include groups and populations. Dr. Sanders holds an MBA degree from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania where he learned to integrate principles of economics, organizational behavior and marketing to create a unique and innovative perspective to solve problems and craft health service delivery strategies.
Throughout his career, he has not only held a range of leadership roles but also pioneered innovative physician roles aimed to contribute to improved effectiveness and efficiency of health service delivery. Early in his career, he worked as a physician manager for Kaiser Permanente in Atlanta with responsibilities as the chief physician for a medical office and as the regional leader for the quality of services provided to patients and families. In this role as a public health leader, he oversaw activities to protect, promote and improve the health of all residents of DeKalb County. He facilitated an initiative to integrate total quality management principles into the operations of a local public health organization. At Morehouse School of Medicine, he served as the Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs where he worked to align the clinical, educational and research missions of the medical school. As a teacher, he models patient care for residents and students. Also, he pioneered teaching the application of business principles to medical practice with a focus on patient safety and quality.
Dr. Sanders has served as President of the Atlanta Medical Association and the Georgia State Medical Association. As member of the National Medical Association, he has served as the Speaker of the House of Delegates, Chair of the Committee on Financial and Administrative Affairs in the House of Delegates and President.
Dr. Sanders strives for excellence in teaching, seeks to deliver top quality services for patients and their families and aims to address critical determinants linked to improved health for all people.
WSHS FFA Officers at the State House today.
I had great fun participating in the 1920s day with our 5th graders. This is a day they will remember as having fun with a purpose - LEARNING!
Dr. Sprouse
Ware Shoals School District will be on a 2 hour delay tomorrow (Friday, February 21) due to a forecast of possible black ice on the roadways. Temperatures are predicted to drop below freezing around 4am and continue to hover at or below freezing for several hours. We will further assess weather conditions in the morning. If we need to delay further or cancel school we will be back in touch around 7am. Safety is our number one priority!
WSSD51 remains committed to early childhood education. We are proud to offer a rigorous 4k curriculum and have top tier teachers (and assistants) who are preparing our students for 5k! Registration for 4K and new 5K students will be held Feb 24-28 (9:00-2:00PM) at WSP.
WSHS parents and students: The LAST day to order a yearbook is February 21st. They are $65.00. Orders can be placed in the high school front office. Get them while they last!
First round of girls basketball playoffs start tomorrow (Monday 2/17) at McBee 6:00. Tickets are $6.
Very proud of all the students who came out to our SAT Prep session on Monday night! Research indicates that 20 hours of studying for the SAT typically increases scores 30 to 70 points. These students understand that extra efforts lead to great results!
WSHS parents and students: The LAST day to order a yearbook is February 21st. They are $65.00. Orders can be placed in the high school front office. Get them while they last!
Valentine’s Day is Friday, 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!
Thank you for what you do!
Dual Enrollment at Lander University - Feb 7th
Due to the road conditions, our buses are on a two hour delay tomorrow. This means students will not be transported to Lander in the morning.
The high school will start in 3rd period.
Due to today's severe weather, WSSD51 will operate on a 2 hour delay tomorrow (Feb 7th). This will allow buses, car riders and our staff to have a safer commute to school during the daylight hours.
Due to today's severe weather, WSSD51 will operate on a 2 hour delay tomorrow (Feb 7th). This will allow buses, car riders and our staff to have a safer commute to school during the daylight hours.
Update from WSSD 51: All after school programs have been cancelled for this afternoon including the YMCA program at WSP. Our schools continue to follow our emergency procedures. Updates to follow.
The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for Greenville County and Western Laurens County. Ware Shoals Primary is located in Western Laurens County and has implemented tornado drill procedures.
Due to imminent unsafe weather conditions late this afternoon, there will be NO after school activities at Ware Shoals High School. All practices/meetings are cancelled.
District Spelling Bee W-I-N-N-E-R!
Brandon Rash, 7th grade student at Ware Shoals Middle, spelled his way to the top in the 10th round of the annual district spelling bee.
Congratulations to all who earned a place in the bee!
(L to R)First row: Makayla Anderson, Braden Reese, Brandon Rash, Ethan Wood, and Carrie Johnston.
Back row: Faith Holbrooks, Danica Lulham, Joseph Kletzke, Camron Howington, Julian Dyal, and Syrildia Justus.
Landen Cathey qualified but was unable to be present.
Thanks to the organizers and the judges for the event!
WSHS parents and students: The LAST day to order a yearbook is February 21st. They are $65.00. Orders can be placed in the high school front office. Get them while they last!
Noon Dismissal for Students Wednesday, February 5th:
On Wednesday, students will be released at 12 to provide time for professional development for our staff. It's time for us to "go to school" to LEARN more about how to better SERVE our students.
LEARNING, SERVING, LEADING the way to DESTINATION...GRADUATION!
WSHS parents and students: The LAST day to order a yearbook is February 21st. They are $65.00. Orders can be placed in the high school front office. Get them while they last!
Recently, a tornado caused widespread damage to North Central High School. Our students gathered donations and school supplies to send to their peers in Kershaw. Mr. and Mrs. Hodge and Mr. Wood are shown with the NCHS band director, Mr. Nix. The supplies filled the entire back of his truck! We are proud of our students, who stepped up to serve others in their time of need.
LEARNING...SERVING...LEADING is our motto!
WSHS parents and students: The LAST day to order a yearbook is February 21st. They are $65.00. Orders can be placed in the high school front office. Get them while they last!
"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!
