Learning Support Services
Pickens County School District is dedicated to helping each student learn in ways that work for them. Teachers and support staff work together to target student strengths, letting students explore and grow in those subjects while giving helpful attention to areas that require more support, helping your student achieve their academic goals, find their confidence, and putting them on a path to success.
Advanced Placement
Advanced Placement (AP) is a program of college-level courses taught in the high school setting by high school teachers. All AP courses have been approved by College Board, and provide students with the opportunity to seek advanced coursework leading to advanced placement and/or college credits through successful completion of a College Board AP examinations. All students taking and passing AP courses are expected to take the AP examination unless they follow the opt-out process.
The purposes for taking an AP course are to learn a subject in greater depth, to develop analytical reasoning skills, and to develop disciplined study habits appropriate for continued success at the college level. Compared with regular high school courses, AP courses are more demanding, requiring more time and work outside of the school day. Research shows, students that complete AP classes are better prepared for the demands of college.
Gifted Program
The Pickens County Schools Gifted Program recognizes that gifted students need intellectual challenge, peer interaction, and individualized support. Because no single method or resource can meet all their needs, gifted education is a collaborative effort among educators, families, and the community.
To support the diverse abilities and interests of gifted learners, instruction is differentiated in the regular classroom through adjustments in pacing, depth, and teaching strategies. Each school’s gifted coordinator also provides enrichment opportunities to further develop students’ potential.
Helpful Links
Special Education
Special Education is an instructional approach that is specially designed to meet the unique needs of an individual child with a disability. The Student Services Team supports Pickens County students and families in a variety of ways. For more information, please visit our Special Education page.
English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
The Pickens County School District's English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program provides support for English language acquisition and development of skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing through content based instruction. For more information, please visit our ESOL page.
EIP/REP Program Overview
The Early Intervention Program (EIP) and Remedial Education Program (REP) are designed to provide additional academic support to students who are performing below grade level in reading and/or math. These services help close learning gaps by offering targeted instruction that is aligned to grade-level standards and tailored to individual needs.
Through flexible models—such as small-group instruction, in-class support, and pull-out sessions—students receive focused interventions that build foundational skills and boost confidence. EIP and REP are essential components of the district’s commitment to ensuring all students have the support they need to succeed.