TEACHER SUPPORT
Goal 2: Support Teachers
Teacher Classroom Innovation Grants
Teacher Classroom Innovation Grants – PEP encourages and rewards teachers who want to try new methods in their classroom that support student learning. Grants of up to $500 per classroom are awarded twice per year.
Two rounds of grants are awarded each year to educators across all curriculum areas.
Thank you to everyone who applied for the fall, 2025 round of grants. Winners will be announced in a few weeks.
Recent Classroom Innovation Grant Winners
Taylor Little | Keys to Creativity: Unlocking Music Education with Classroom Pianos | Aiken Elementary | |
Aretha Tarver | Grit and Growth in the Classroom | Chukker Creek Elementary | |
Christi McWaters | What’s Your ETA at Mastery?: Engaging students through Technology and Art | East Aiken School of the Arts | |
Debbie Williams | Enhancing Hydroponics through 5th Grade Student-Designed 3D Printed Cups | Greendale Elementary | |
Valerie McGahee | Voices That Carry‚ Book Podcasts for Schoolwide Literacy | Jackson STEM Magnet Middle School | |
Jennifer McMillian | Discover Recycling: A School Community Project | Jackson STEM Magnet Middle School | |
Dr. Patricia M. Saxon | From Page to Prototype: Enhancing Literacy Through 3D Design | New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet School | |
Christine Walcott | Unlocking Science Through Virtual Reality: Exploring the Impossible | New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet School | |
April Koonce | Bringing Literature to Life with Legos | North Augusta High School | |
Emilee Losier | Project GROW: Gardening Routines for Opportunities and Wellness (Indoor Garden) | North Augusta High School | |
Brandi T. Harley | Choo! Choo! Come Aboard the PreK Express in Writing! | Redcliffe Elementary |
Teachers Resource Festival
The Aiken County Induction Teacher Celebration and Resource Fair, hosted by Public Education Partners of Aiken County (PEP), is an event dedicated to welcoming and celebrating new teachers in Aiken County. Held at the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center at USC Aiken, the event provides an opportunity for community organizations to connect with induction teachers and share valuable programs, resources, and support services to help them thrive in their new roles.