Laurens County School Districts 55 & 56 Launch “Full STEAM Ahead” Campaign

Laurens County School District 55 and Laurens County School District 56 are proud to announce the launch of their Full STEAM Ahead campaign, an exciting initiative designed to highlight the dynamic teaching and learning happening every day across the school districts.

The campaign will provide the Laurens community with “snippets” of classroom innovation—showcasing how students are immersed in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) instruction that fosters creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving.

The Full STEAM Ahead campaign will culminate in STEAM on the Square, set for Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Laurens City Square. This free, family-friendly event will bring learning beyond classroom walls and into the heart of downtown Laurens.

This year’s event reflects the strong and growing partnership between Laurens County School District 55 and Laurens County School District 56, as they work collaboratively to make the second annual STEAM on the Square an even bigger and more impactful celebration for the entire community.

The STEAM on the Square Planning Committee is also on Full STEAM Ahead, and met on February 24, 2026, to begin finalizing event details and ensure a dynamic, hands-on experience for attendees.

Representing Laurens County School District 55 (LCSD 55) on the Planning Committee are Wendy Burgess (Executive Director for Teaching & Learning), Dr. Kristi Tucker (STEM Coordinator), Rebecca Marsh (STEM Support Staff), Angela Compton (English Language Arts/Instructional Technology Coordinator), Dr. Jody Penland (Superintendent), Cindy Wright (District Fine Arts Coordinator), and Faye Colley (Coordinator of Communications).

Representing Laurens County School District 56 (LCSD 56) are Dr. Brenda Schrantz (Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction), Eddie Marshall (Director of Elementary Education), Mrs. Josie Kate Haupfear (Director of Secondary Education), and Mrs. Kerri Gearhardt (Music Teacher at Joanna-Woodson Elementary & MS Bailey Child Development Center).

The committee also includes community partners such as Lisa Canada (City of Laurens Director of Planning & Engagement) and Brad Abercrombie (Main Street Laurens Director).

In addition, the committee welcomed valuable input from Jessica Cooper, representing the homeschooling community, as well as Elizabeth McCamron from Laurens Academy, ensuring that the private school community also has a voice in this countywide celebration of learning.

Together, this diverse and collaborative team is working to ensure STEAM on the Square reflects the talent, creativity, and innovation happening across all educational settings in Laurens County.

LCSD 55 Superintendent Dr. Jody Penland emphasized the importance of making learning visible within the community. He said, “In Laurens County School District 55, we are Building a 5-Star Culture of Excellence. We anchor our work on A+ Academics and A+ Atmosphere. We are intentional about creating environments that promote both academic excellence and an engaging atmosphere. STEAM on the Square is an opportunity to celebrate the incredible work happening daily in our classrooms.  We invite our community to join us and experience it firsthand.”

LCSD 55 Arts Coordinator Cindy Wright shared her enthusiasm about the event’s growth and impact. Cindy shared, “I am excited to see how much our STEAM on the Square event has grown over the past year. We now have more students showcasing their talents, as well as a large variety of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math hands-on activities for everyone. Thanks to the hard work of District 55, District 56, Main Street Laurens, and The City of Laurens, this will be a time to celebrate the great things that are happening in Laurens County.”

LCSD 56 Assistant Superintendent Dr. Brenda Schrantz also highlighted the power of collaboration in elevating the event. “Collaboration is at the heart of excellence. District 56 is honored to partner with Laurens District 55 to provide a unified platform to showcase STEAM opportunities and artistic performances that highlight our schools and students. This event is a celebration of our students’ accomplishments and talents, shared with the community that supports them,” stated Dr. Schrantz.

Throughout the weeks leading up to March 28, the Full STEAM Ahead campaign will spotlight hands-on STEAM learning in the classrooms. STEAM on the Square will provide students with the opportunity to showcase their talents and apply their knowledge in authentic, community-centered settings. Families and community members can expect interactive booths, live demonstrations, student performances, and engaging exhibits that celebrate innovation and creativity across grade levels.

Laurens County School Districts 55 and 56 invite all community members to attend STEAM on the Square on March 28. The event is free and open to the public and promises a morning filled with fun, exploration, creativity, and celebration of student achievement.

Both Laurens school districts extend sincere appreciation to the businesses and organizations that have already committed support to STEAM on the Square. Current sponsors include Byars Machine Shop, PRISMA Health, Laurens Tool, Laurens First Steps, Laurens County Water and Sewer Commission (LCWSC), Crowder Gulf, The Budd Group, United Community Bank, Laurens Commission of Public Works, City of Clinton, and the Rotary Club of Laurens. Both districts also extend appreciation to the community partners on Laurens Square: Connie Post with the Laurens County Museum and Petra Manning-Brooks with the Artist Coop. Their investment in education helps bring meaningful, hands-on learning experiences to students and families across Laurens County.