Clinton SC, September 1, 2025
News Summary
During a recent meeting, School District 56 recognized outstanding contributions in education, including the Spirit of 56 Awards. The board approved the 2026-27 school calendar and addressed safety measures following a troubling incident at Clinton High School involving a firearm. Enhancements to Eastside Elementary’s playground were also announced, funded by the Indigo Hope Foundation, alongside discussion on new district-based courses to enrich student learning.
Clinton, SC – The School District 56 Board of Trustees recently honored several individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to education and approved the school calendar for the academic year 2026-27 during a meeting held at the District Conference Center.
Among the honorees were Chris Fair, Darius Fuller, and Joey Avery, who received the prestigious Spirit of 56 Awards for their dedication and service to students and staff. Avery, who has retired from his role as the county’s emergency management director, is now responsible for overseeing security in District 56.
Additionally, the Indigo Hope Foundation was recognized for its generous grant towards upgrading the playground at Eastside Elementary. The enhanced facility will feature interactive stations designed to engage children and promote active play. Shelby Barber represented the foundation during the award ceremony.
The board also honored Brandon Steele, Ethan Steele, Jaylin Steele, and Gene Steele for their hard work in establishing a new hammock garden and playground, further enriching the district’s recreational offerings. Moreover, Franklan Highley, the school resource officer at Joanna-Woodson Elementary, was acknowledged for his involvement in the summer feeding program, which supports students during the break.
School District 56 has also earned accolades as a Beta Club District and received recognition for its Schools of Distinction, highlighting the district’s commitment to fostering excellence in education.
During the meeting, the board approved the school calendar for the 2026-27 academic year, which is set to begin on August 4, 2026. Changes to retention policies were discussed, particularly in alignment with the state’s reading initiative affecting 3rd-grade students. The board sanctioned new district-based courses, including Real-Life 101 and outdoor Earth in Motion classes that aim to enrich the educational experience.
However, the district has faced challenges of a different nature recently. A concerning incident occurred at Clinton High School when an 18-year-old student, Jalen Shands, was arrested after a loaded firearm was found in his car during a routine screening. Authorities discovered the firearm, reported stolen from North Carolina, along with marijuana in the vehicle. Shands has been charged with multiple offenses, including possession of marijuana and theft of a firearm. He is currently held in the Johnson Detention Center with a bond set at $6,615.
In response to ongoing safety concerns, the school district has implemented new safety measures and continues to conduct routine screenings to ensure the safety of its students and faculty. The board is committed to maintaining a secure educational environment amidst these recent challenges.
Finally, the district has been working diligently to recover from operational challenges caused by severe weather, with efforts focused on resuming regular classes and activities as swiftly as possible.
Meetings of the School District 56 Board of Trustees take place at the District Conference Center on the 4th Monday of each month. Upcoming meeting dates include September 22, October 27, and November 24.
FAQ Section
What notable awards were given in the recent School District 56 meeting?
The Spirit of 56 Awards were presented to Chris Fair, Darius Fuller, and Joey Avery for their service to education in the district.
What improvements are being made to Eastside Elementary’s playground?
A grant from the Indigo Hope Foundation is funding upgrades to enhance the playground with interactive stations for children.
How has the district addressed recent safety incidents?
The district has intensified safety measures, including routine screenings, to ensure the safety of students and staff in light of recent incidents.
When does the 2026-27 school year start?
The school year is set to begin on August 4, 2026.
What is the significance of the recognition received by the district?
The district was recognized as a Beta Club District and received the Schools of Distinction honor, signifying excellence in educational standards.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Awards Recognized | Spirit of 56 Awards to Chris Fair, Darius Fuller, Joey Avery |
| Playground Upgrade | Grant from Indigo Hope Foundation for Eastside Elementary |
| Safety Incidents | Gun found at Clinton High School, increased safety measures implemented |
| School Calendar | 2026-27 academic year starts August 4, 2026 |
| Upcoming Meetings | 4th Monday of each month – next on September 22, October 27, November 24 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Clinton Red Devils Dominate Laurens Raiders in Home Opener
Laurens Raiders and Clinton Red Devils Clash for First Victory
Athletic Coordinator Charged with Assault in East Laurens
Superior Wellness Opens New Distribution Hub in South Carolina
Authorities Search for Anderson County Man Wanted for Sexual Conduct
Ralph Norman Announces Candidacy for South Carolina Governor
Big Changes for Transgender Athletes in Women’s Sports
Tribute to Beloved Educator William Ostrander
Charles Rangel, A Legacy in New York Politics, Passes Away
Snow Flurries Blanket South Carolina and North Carolina
Additional Resources
- Laurens County News
- Wikipedia: Clinton, South Carolina
- My Clinton News
- Google Search: Clinton School District news
- Fox Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Laurens County News – School Readiness
- Google News: Clinton High School news
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
