Lexington 03 honors junior scholars and 11 retirees, noting more than 200 years of service

The Lexington County School District 3 Board of Trustees opened its May 14 meeting by recognizing student and staff achievements.

Mackenzie Taylor, Director of Public Information and Community Relations, introduced three Batesburg Leesville Middle School students — Zane Davis, Kate Shealy and Bishop Sims — who were named South Carolina Junior Scholars and described the program’s PSAT-based eligibility and summer opportunities at state colleges and the Governor’s School for Science and Math. “Congratulations to Zane Davis, Kate Shealy, and Bishop Sims,” Taylor said as the board presented certificates and took a photo.

Taylor then introduced the district’s 2024 retiree class, saying 11 employees were retiring with “collectively more than 202 years of service” to Lexington 3. Taylor named a number of retirees and summarized roles and memories, including Alvin Abner (known as “Mister Moon”), a long-time custodian, Allison Cook, a science teacher, and Coach Gary Smolin, who the presenter said spent 50 years in education. Taylor noted the district will hold a retiree reception the following afternoon at the new Panther Arena on the Batesburg Leesville High School campus.

The recognitions were framed as community and institutional milestones; the board offered collective thanks to the retirees for their service. No board action was required for the recognitions.