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Christ Church Episcopal School
We embody our unique Episcopal identity best by promoting a culture of kindness and respect where all people from all backgrounds and religions are accepted and valued. We strive to ensure that everyone is at home at CCES.
Three Schools One Community
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Challenging.
Rewarding. CCES.
CCES is an independent day school serving approximately 1,200 students in grades Primer (Kindergarten) through 12 in Greenville, South Carolina.
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CCES Lower School
Grades Primer (Kindergarten) - 4
The CCES Lower School emphasizes academic excellence and unique learning opportunities in interactive, child-centered classrooms. Our independent private elementary school serves students in Primer (Kindergarten) and grades 1 through 4, providing an educational experience unlike any other in the Greenville, SC area.
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CCES Middle School
Grades 5 - 8
The CCES Middle School serves students in Grades 5 through 8 and provides a safe and nurturing environment where students are actively engaged in their classes, enjoy time with their classmates, and develop skills that will help propel them forward in the years to come.
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CCES Upper School
Grades 9 - 12
Our Upper School offers a distinctive balance of innovative learning opportunities and time-honored academic traditions. We serve students in grades 9 through 12 and provide deeply challenging educational environment focused on preparing each student to shape his or her future with self-awareness and self-confidence.
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At CCES, You are Known
CCES provides more than an education. No matter where you are on your journey, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Spiritual Development
Spiritual Development
As an Episcopal school, we support all of our students, from all backgrounds, in their individual faith journeys.
Social-Emotional Development
Social-Emotional Development
At CCES, we strive to ensure that every student feels a sense of belonging and support, has opportunities to develop meaningful relationships, finds joy in learning, and is encouraged to live a healthy and balanced life.
Academic Development
Academic Development
At CCES, we are committed to meeting the individual learning needs of students while supporting and extending the rigorous academics offered at CCES.
Physical Development
Physical Development
At CCES, we recognize that the health of our students, faculty and staff is integral to the full educational experience we provide for our students.
Sharing Our Stories
Cavalier Voices
What’s your favorite tradition at CCES?
What do you love about teaching at CCES?
What’s your favorite project in 4th grade?
What’s your favorite class in the Lower School?
What did you enjoy about the TIDE program?
A CCES Education Prepares Students To
Our Mission
Think Deeply, Act Responsibly, Live Vigorously, Believe Faithfully, Lead Resolutely, and Create Imaginatively
1:33
Average College Counselor to Student Ratio
80%
of Students in Grades 7-12 Participate in a Sport
5
World Languages: Chinese, German, French, Latin, Spanish
100%
College Acceptance
43
Athletic Teams
117
State Championships
9
Lower School Special Area Enrichment Programs
20+
Advanced Placement Courses Offered
K-12
Coordinated Curriculum Offered
94
Acre Campus
1
On-Site Wetland Laboratory
6,300+
Alumni
See Where CCES Can Take You
Ellie Dalkin, Director of Young Alumni Relations & Communications
Attending Texas Christian University
Gracie Haley embodies the values of inclusivity and empathy, according to Associate Director of College Counseling, Lindsey Waters. Mrs. Waters describes Gracie as “someone who is aware of students who may feel like an outsider or underdog, working to include and encourage everyone.”
Christ Church Episcopal School experiences have prepared graduating seniors for whatever comes next and to make a positive difference in the world. Each week, we will put the spotlight on a graduating senior from the Class of 2024. We hope you enjoy getting to know these amazing CCES students!
Gracie Haley embodies the values of inclusivity and empathy, according to Associate Director of College Counseling, Lindsey Waters. Mrs. Waters describes Gracie as “someone who is aware of students who may feel like an outsider or underdog, working to include and encourage everyone.” Engaging in a brief conversation with Gracie is all it takes to affirm this sentiment, and her tenure at CCES as a 13-Year Vet serves as a testament to these remarkable qualities.
A captain of both the Varsity Lacrosse and Cheerleading teams, Gracie leads the charge in making younger classmates feel comfortable and welcomed on the team. As a freshman, she looked up to the older girls as role models, and so she strives to do the same as a senior on the team. “I want to make sure everyone feels included and like they belong. I never want someone to feel like they are falling behind or struggling.” Her advice to younger players on the team is to never be afraid to ask someone for help if you have questions or need something. This kind of leadership is what earned her the “Most Likely to Have Your Back” award on the Varsity Lacrosse team last year and permeates throughout all of her endeavors both on and off the field.
Gracie’s experience as an adoptee also impacts the way that she goes about life in profound ways. She is keenly aware of the significance of not knowing someone's full story and the impact words and assumptions can have on someone. Her senior capstone project, “Street Stories,” seeks to amplify the voices of marginalized individuals who seldom get the opportunity to share their stories. Through partnering with the organization, Sunday Dinner with a Twist, Gracie interviewed various people facing homelessness in the Upstate area. She then shared some of their stories as well as a message about the importance of breaking stereotypes and not judging people to the fifth grade at CCES. Together, they created snack bags with encouraging notes to hand out to the homeless.
When asked where this uniquely inclusive and aware mindset stems from, she quickly gave credit to one of her biggest role models – her mom. “My mom has always been one to go out of her way to help others achieve something that they’re wanting to do. If she sees someone not having a good time somewhere, she goes out of her way to greet them and put a smile on their face. I want to be like that and make someone’s day better.”
Gracie’s family has always been important to her, and during her sophomore year, Gracie found herself enduring countless nineteen-hour road trips to visit her older brother, Graham Haley ’18, at Texas Christian University (TCU), where he graduated from in the spring of 2022. As a result, she swore off attending a university so far from home. When she started to seriously consider colleges though, she quickly realized the many benefits of TCU – its size, athletic fervor, and artistic opportunities. She also realized that a three hour flight is a great alternative to a 19-hour car ride. After looking at a few other schools including Samford University and Belmont University, it became clear TCU was the place for her.
At TCU, she hopes to pursue interior design as a major, which stems from her love of the arts. The arts – specifically visual arts – have always been very important to Gracie, and she has excelled as an AP Arts student this year. Her AP Portfolio showcases various aspects of nature using movements commonly found in the natural world. For Gracie, art forces time to slow down and creates space for focusing on something she truly enjoys and wants to improve upon. Looking ahead, she is excited to apply her talents in a different way through interior design.
Beyond her artistic talents, Gracie’s unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of belonging for all, whether on the lacrosse field, in the classroom, or within the broader community, will carry her far in her future endeavors at TCU.
For Fun:
Favorite memory with your family? On a trip to the British Virgin Islands with my family, we went out on an island at night and made our own food on the beach and made our own fire.
Tell us something people probably don’t know about you. I did competitive dance for 10 years.
Current Netflix binge? Grey’s Anatomy.
Ellie Dalkin, Director of Young Alumni Relations & Communications
Attending Belmont University
When Emory Allen, Class of 2024, sets a goal, there is little doubt in anyone's mind that she will achieve it. Director of College Counseling, Linda Schulz, describes Emory as a student who “demonstrates great determination and courage” and “is steadfast in always giving her best efforts to all she pursues.”
Christ Church Episcopal School experiences have prepared graduating seniors for whatever comes next and to make a positive difference in the world. Each week, we will put the spotlight on a graduating senior from the Class of 2024. We hope you enjoy getting to know these amazing CCES students!
When Emory Allen, Class of 2024, sets a goal, there is little doubt in anyone's mind that she will achieve it. Director of College Counseling, Linda Schulz, describes Emory as a student who “demonstrates great determination and courage” and “is steadfast in always giving her best efforts to all she pursues.” Emory’s ambitions at CCES have spanned the pool, the track, the classroom, and even the hospital ward. Throughout them all, she has shown a remarkable amount of grit and compassion.
Emory joined CCES as an eighth grader and immediately plugged into the swim team. As a distance swimmer, she excelled in races requiring a high level of mental fortitude and endurance, and her success was evident in the various accolades she received throughout her swimming career, including All County, All Region, All State, and Highest Point Scorer. She also spent her summers by the pool serving as a swim lessons coach and a summer league swim instructor.
Mentorship opportunities like these have always been very important to Emory, and during her senior year, she started volunteering at the Serenity Place, a local rehabilitation center for mothers with young children. Described by Service and Experiential Learning Director, Elizbeth Jarrett, as “kind and respectful, hardworking and motivated,” Emory provides babysitting for the mothers’ children every Tuesday night.
This opportunity, however, might not have been available to her had she not made the difficult decision to try out for the cross country team instead of the swim team during her senior year. The cross country’s close knit team welcomed her with open arms, and she quickly realized running provided a competitive outlet and an opportunity to make new friends. This decision to get out of her comfort zone has spurred her on to continually try new things, including volunteering at Serenity Place and later joining the track and field team. “So many good things came out of the scary decision to transition from swimming. It has inspired me to try new things, make new friends, and I’ve gotten to know Ms. Jarrett better, who introduced me to Serenity Place,” Emory reflected.
Getting out of her comfort zone is nothing new for her though. During the summer before senior year, Emory participated in CCES’s Internship Program, which provides rising seniors with real world experience through internships in various fields across the Upstate. Her cousin is a pediatric ICU nurse, so she has always been curious about the nursing profession. Through the internship program, she had the opportunity to spend a few weeks in the pediatric ICU at Greenville Memorial Hospital and quickly realized how much she loved it.
Despite working long hours, she knew something was different when she came home after a long day at the hospital and never complained about being tired. Instead, she was too busy reliving the day’s adventures and discoveries. “I love that it’s not a ‘sit at the office’ job, but you get to be moving around and doing something with your hands,” Emory says. “You are also exposed to so many different situations, and you get to have a big impact on both the kids and their families.”
After this experience, she made the decision to pursue a career in nursing, and this goal has shaped her college search. She wanted to attend a school that would allow her to start working as a nurse as soon as possible, and that criteria narrowed her search to schools with “direct admit” programs, in which students complete four years of nursing education including clinical rotations. She applied to James Madison University, Auburn University, and West Virginia University, among others, but the one that ended up being the top contender was not on her initial list until Mrs. Schulz suggested it – Belmont University in Nashville, TN.
Belmont has a direct admit nursing program, and ninety-six percent of students enrolled in the program are employed in nursing within six months of graduation. This checks an important box for Emory, and it is also located in a big city with a strong medical community found in Vanderbilt University. The Belmont campus, however, feels small and organized in a way that made Emory feel right at home when she visited.
In looking ahead at closing of her chapter as a CCES student, Emory has one more goal she would like to accomplish – break six minutes in the mile at a track meet. Given her track record (no pun intended), it won’t be long before she meets that goal, careening her forward towards the many more she will pursue at Belmont and beyond.
Just for fun!
Name something this world could use a lot more of? Empathy.
Who is someone who has greatly influenced your life? My mom.
If you could create one mandatory course for seniors, what would it be? Finance.
Kim Gendron, Social Media Coordinator
Attending Berry College
If Ciarán Greer were to pick one motto to live by, it would be to keep an open mindset at all times. This has led him to fearlessly try new things, to be open to engaging in difficult topics, and to always seek to learn from people – even if he might not agree with their perspectives.
Christ Church Episcopal School experiences have prepared graduating seniors for whatever comes next and to make a positive difference in the world. Each week, we will put the spotlight on a graduating senior from the Class of 2024. We hope you enjoy getting to know these amazing CCES students!
If Ciarán Greer were to pick one motto to live by, it would be to keep an open mindset at all times. This has led him to fearlessly try new things, to be open to engaging in difficult topics, and to always seek to learn from people – even if he might not agree with their perspectives.
Ciarán enrolled at CCES in the sixth grade as a self-described “quiet” middle schooler. Finding his place in a new school was an intimidating task at first, but CCES quickly grew into a beautiful and welcoming community. Ciarán says, “I’ve been fortunate to make some really great friends during my time here.”
During his four years of high school, Ciarán has been involved in a wide variety of school clubs and activities, but two areas have remained constant – running and creativity. Ciarán joined the Boys Cross Country and Track and Field teams as a 7th grader and fell in love with the sport immediately. Running has taught him a lot that applies to life as well – mainly the values of grit and patience. He says, “I have learned the ability to experience pain and be willing to go through the difficult to reach the beautiful.”
Creativity has always been important to Ciarán, but with his open-minded approach to life, it has led him down some different paths as he has jumped into a number of pursuits over these past few years. First, he started a sports podcast during the pandemic – partially out of being bored during quarantine and partially just because he loves sports and wanted to find a way to talk about it. He covered all American sports and Premier League soccer, with people all around the world tuning in for the episodes and eventually, he even signed with a British podcasting network! While his foray into podcasting only lasted a couple of years, it gave him valuable experience with editing and producing.
Then, last year Ciarán decided to join the journalism staff and fell in love with the entire process – from the development of a concept all the way to writing and editing pieces. He quickly integrated himself into the work and with the staff, becoming a valuable contributor and then being named editor for his senior year. When he reflects back on all that the team has accomplished this year, he’s extremely proud – viewership is the highest it has ever been, they cover a wide range of topics, and he’s been working with Ms. Gregory, US Librarian and Journalism Teacher, to expand CCES News into the other two divisions.
Discourse around difficult topics has never been something Ciarán has shied away from. If anything, he seeks it out, always welcoming a good debate. In Ciarán’s mind, a debate is simply the opportunity to learn about another person and a different perspective than one’s own. He says, “The ability to engage in difficult topics, with other perspectives, in a way that is respectful and open-minded, is an important skill for people to possess.”
Ciarán has certainly done his best to introduce his peers to the art of respectful debate, founding the Political Debate and History club this year. He says, “I want to help people have civil discussions about difficult topics and to educate people about things they might not learn in the classroom.”
Despite a schedule that is packed to the brim, Ciarán is also a member of the RC (Radio Control) Club and Spanish Club, and has made the Honor Roll three of his four years (9, 11, 12). He was selected to represent CCES at the annual S.C. Palmetto Boys State mock government program, where he was elected as "State Senator" by over 400 of his peers. He was a captain of the Cross Country team this year, making All-Region and All-State. He also added Honor Council and choir to his resume as a senior, never shying away from trying something new.
When Ciarán started looking for colleges, his commitment to running and pursuing a variety of interests was at the forefront. He applied to a few schools – Davidson College, Sewanee, and The Citadel, but as soon as he visited Berry College in Rome, Georgia, it just felt right. He describes the “natural beauty” that makes the campus stand out and with the excellent history department and opportunity to continue his running career, it was the perfect fit. Ciarán plans to double major in History and Spanish, pursuing the prelaw track with hopes to attend law school in the future. He hopes to integrate service and faith into his life more fully, planning on being active in the Canterbury Club, the Episcopal Church’s college ministry.
Director of College Counseling, Linda Schulz, calls Ciarán “respectful, compassionate, and purposeful.” She says, “He is very intentional about pursuing his interests and his connection with others. It has been a joy to watch Ciarán develop as a leader and courageously take himself out of his comfort zone, always making the most of life.”
As Ciarán moves into a new chapter of life after graduation, his fearless pursuit of new things and grounded outlook on life will continue to guide him forward. As he did at CCES, Ciarán will no doubt integrate himself seamlessly into the fabric of Berry College, keeping an open mindset through it all.
Just for fun:
Name something the world could use a lot more of? Listening
Favorite period in history to study? Between WWI and WII, the Gilded Ages
If you could try one thing and know you wouldn’t fail, what would it be? Baseball
Current sports topic you enjoy debating? The Celtics are going to win the NBA finals this year.
Tell us something most people probably don’t know about you. I threw out the first pitch of a Drive game before – I was four years old and won a raffle through Meals on Wheels.
Personalized For You
Our goal is to ensure that each student is prepared to seek out colleges that match their unique academic and personal needs and expectations; our focus is to guide each student as they search to find the right college “match.”
News
CAVS News
Christ Church Episcopal School experiences have prepared graduating seniors for whatever comes next and to make a positive difference in the world. Each week, we will put the spotlight on a graduating senior from the Class of 2025. We hope you enjoy getting to know these amazing CCES students!
Some students leave a lasting impression on their school community, and Sidney Mitchell is undoubtedly one of them. A shining example of dedication, leadership, and enthusiasm, Sidney has made her mark at CCES both academically and athletically. As she prepares to embark on the next chapter of her journey at Wake Forest University, we celebrate her incredible achievements and the legacy she leaves behind.
With a passion for excellence from the moment she stepped onto the CCES campus in eighth grade, Sidney embraced the school’s commitment to character, community, excellence, and service. Whether in the classroom, on the tennis court, or through her extracurricular involvement, she consistently pushed herself to be the best version of herself. Her work ethic and perseverance have earned her high honor roll recognition, the title of AP Scholar with Honor, and membership in the Spanish National Honor Society.
Sidney’s favorite classes, AP Statistics and AP Spanish, reflect her love for both analytical thinking and language learning. Despite initially hesitating to take AP Statistics due to its reputation for being writing-intensive, she quickly fell in love with the subject. Similarly, her AP Spanish coursework, under the guidance of Señor Greer, has played a crucial role in her goal of becoming bilingual. Sidney has completed eight AP courses, proving her commitment to academic excellence and intellectual growth.
An unstoppable force in athletics Sidney’s presence on the tennis court has been nothing short of extraordinary. Holding the #1 spot in the varsity tennis lineup for three years, she has been a dominant force in the sport. Her impressive list of accolades includes being named All-Region Tennis Player from grades 9 through 11, the Greenville News All-Upstate Girls Tennis Player of the Year as a sophomore, and earning multiple state and regional championship titles.
Beyond her personal accomplishments, Sidney has demonstrated a passion for giving back through coaching young tennis players, fostering a love for the sport in the next generation. Her leadership and sportsmanship were further recognized when she received the SC All-State Singles Tournament Sportsmanship Award, a testament to her character both on and off the court.
Sidney’s impact at CCES extends far beyond academics and athletics. As Senior Ambassador Chair, she has played an instrumental role in welcoming and guiding students, showcasing her natural leadership abilities. She has also been an active member of the Pep Club, Spanish Club, and the Leadership Academy, further demonstrating her commitment to school spirit and personal growth.
Her dedication to faith and service is evident through her involvement in Walk with Christ retreats and her leadership in Bible study groups with students from various local high schools. Additionally, her volunteer efforts with Special Olympics and day missions reflect her passion for uplifting others and fostering a sense of community.
Looking ahead as Sidney prepares to begin her college journey at Wake Forest University, she carries with her a strong foundation built at CCES. She plans to major in Finance with a minor in Spanish, blending her love for numbers and language. Her drive to challenge herself, whether through academics, athletics, or leadership, ensures that she will continue to make a meaningful impact. Sidney’s story is one of dedication, perseverance, and joy - a true embodiment of the CCES spirit. Whether leading on the tennis court, excelling in the classroom, or bringing energy to every endeavor, she leaves behind a legacy of hard work and enthusiasm that will inspire future Cavaliers for years to come.
Congratulations, Sidney! Wake Forest is lucky to have you, and we cannot wait to see all that you accomplish in this next chapter of your journey.
Christ Church Episcopal School experiences have prepared graduating seniors for whatever comes next and to make a positive difference in the world. Each week, we will put the spotlight on a graduating senior from the Class of 2025. We hope you enjoy getting to know these amazing CCES students!
Nathaniel Jakubowicz is a name that stands out not just for his academic achievements but for his diverse interests, strong character, and ability to balance multiple passions with grace. As he prepares to embark on the next chapter of his journey at Bates College, we take a look at his time at Christ Church Episcopal School (CCES) and what makes him an exceptional student and individual.
Nathaniel has never been one to confine himself to a single field of study. His academic transcript reflects his curiosity and dedication, with a rigorous schedule that includes AP Chemistry, AP Calculus, and English IV Honors. However, his educational pursuits go beyond the traditional. He has taken courses in German, Robotics, Documentary Filmmaking, and even Drums, showcasing his desire to explore and connect different disciplines.
His love for learning doesn’t stop in the classroom. Teachers have noted his enthusiasm for class discussions and the depth of insight he brings to academic conversations. One faculty member noted that “his contributions to class discussions and formal Socratic Seminars are excellent and much appreciated by his classmates and me." Nathaniel exemplifies dedication and professionalism in everything he pursues.
Beyond academics, Nathaniel has actively participated in school and community activities. He joined the CCES Varsity Tennis team in his sophomore year and has balanced his competitive drive with a genuine love for the game. One of his favorite memories is a crucial doubles victory against Greenville High, a testament to his teamwork and determination.
His contributions extend beyond the court. As a member of the Python Club, Nathaniel has explored coding and problem-solving, embracing the complexities of programming despite finding Python’s structure somewhat chaotic. His sense of community is also evident in his volunteer work at the downtown Greenville library, where he helps with book sales and promotes literacy.
Nathaniel’s journey at CCES has shaped him into an inquisitive yet reflective thinker. His teachers and peers describe him as level-headed, collected, and a role model for those around him. He understands the importance of balance—knowing when to challenge himself and when to take a step back to enjoy activities like hiking, bouldering, and even fencing, a lesser-known skill he once pursued.
His leadership extends to his ability to connect with others and leave a lasting impact. When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave behind, Nathaniel emphasized teamwork and creating a positive and competitive environment for future students.
Nathaniel’s decision to attend Bates College is a reflection of his desire for a rigorous yet well-rounded education. He was drawn to the school’s tight-knit community and the unique “Short Term” semester, which allows students to immerse themselves in a single subject for four weeks. As he embarks on his journey toward a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, he remains open to future possibilities, including graduate school.
His choice in major aligns with his hands-on approach to learning, as he has always thrived in lab-based sciences like AP Chemistry and AP Environmental Science. His love for nature and the outdoors, coupled with his analytical mind, will undoubtedly make him a valuable contributor in the field of environmental studies.
Nathaniel Jakubowicz embodies the values of Christ Church Episcopal School: character, community, excellence, and service. Whether in the classroom, on the tennis court, or volunteering in the community, he consistently demonstrates dedication, passion, and a drive to make a difference. As he prepares for the next step in his journey, there is no doubt that he will continue to inspire and excel in all that he does.
Congratulations, Nathaniel! We can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.
The power of music to transcend borders was evident during the recent Upper School Ensembles performance tour through Italy. Over the course of this spring break journey, the group gave three hour-long performances in stunning historic venues, toured breathtaking landmarks, and immersed themselves in Italian culture. Here’s a look back at their unforgettable experience.
Performances in Iconic Venues
The musical journey took the ensemble to three incredible locations:
- St. Paul’s Within the Walls, Rome – A stunning neo-Gothic church.
- Chiesa di San Filippo Neri, Florence – A Baroque-style church known for its remarkable acoustics.
- Cremona Solidale, Cremona – A retirement community in the heart of Italy’s violin-making capital.
Each concert was a special moment, allowing the students to connect with audiences through music and share their passion in some of the most inspiring settings.
Exploring Italy’s Treasures
Beyond their performances, the group had the chance to tour three cities, soaking in their history, art, and traditions.
Rome: The Eternal City
Their time in Rome was packed with awe-inspiring sights and once-in-a-lifetime experiences:
- Guided tours of the Roman Forum and Colosseum, bringing history to life.
- A visit to the Vatican Museum, where they saw the Sistine Chapel.
- They carried a cross through the Holy Door into St. Peter’s Basilica—a rare experience, as the door only opens during the Jubilee every 25 years, next in 2050.
- Sightseeing at the Victor Emmanuel II Monument, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona.
Florence: The Heart of the Renaissance
In Florence, art and culture took center stage:
- A walking tour through the city’s highlights, including the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Baptistery.
- A visit to the Academy of Fine Arts, home to Michelangelo’s David and some of the earliest pianos ever made.
- A hands-on cooking class, where students crafted their own fresh pasta.
Cremona: The City of Violins
The final stop was the enchanting city of Cremona, famous for its violin-making legacy:
- Visits to luthier shops, where students witnessed master artisans crafting exquisite string instruments and even had the opportunity to assist in the process.
- A tour of the Museum of the Violin, where they were treated to a private recital on a 1734 Stradivarius violin—a truly mesmerizing moment.
- Exploring the Cremona Duomo, home to Italy’s tallest brick bell tower. Some even climbed to the top!
From performing in historic churches to discovering the artistic and culinary wonders of Italy, this spring break tour with the Upper School Ensembles was an experience the students will never forget!
Upon meeting Kaytina Taylor Mills ‘17, you immediately get a sense of her warmth and hospitality. With an infectious smile and welcoming spirit, she exudes the CCES values of Community and Service. A former CCES employee, now a volunteer on the Alumni Association Board, a key member of the leadership team at Augusta Street Market, and a busy mom, Kaytina approaches her days with a commitment to serving others and making a difference in the places she calls home.
CCES – Where a Commitment to Service Began
A proud 13-year vet and one of four Taylor family siblings to attend the school, Kaytina credits many in the CCES community with positively impacting her journey. She remembers fondly Upper School Psychology teacher Mr. John Zebell, known for his genuine care for students, and first grade teacher Mrs. Nancy Holmes. There was also eighth grade English teacher Mr. Russell Shelley and Mrs. Sloan Cheves in primer. And she can’t forget Mr. Bartley Sides, a member of the college counseling team, who always offered a listening ear, and became a trusted advisor and friend.
After CCES, Kaytina attended Clemson University and began her professional career with a first job at United Way. But it was back at CCES where she truly found a unique way to combine her passion for education and service. In 2021, she landed the role of Service Learning Coordinator under the leadership of Elizabeth Jarrett ‘82, now one of her dearest friends and mentors. This position afforded Kaytina with the opportunity to foster a culture of giving back among CCES students. Her role included facilitating the school’s internship program, which she helped to revive after the COVID-19 pandemic, and which is now thriving and growing each year.
Serving the Upstate at Augusta Street Market
Kaytina now spends her working hours as an integral member of her family’s business, Augusta Street Market. The Market opened in November 2024, championed by her father Shane Taylor, and is a unique New York-style deli, cafe and market, with an infusion of South Carolina hospitality. Kaytina serves as the Market’s administrative coordinator, blending her love for service with her organizational and leadership strengths. In this position, she manages payroll, hiring, inventory, and accounting and finds satisfaction in constantly learning and evolving. It’s a job that requires precision and attention to detail, traits that Kaytina developed and sharpened through her CCES education. Coupled with these demands, her role at the Market also provides a level of flexibility which allows her to balance work with family life, including raising her one-year old daughter Rilla Grace with husband Sawyer.
Most importantly, Kaytina feels that her work at Augusta Street Market is more than just a job. It’s about making a meaningful contribution. She enjoys building relationships with vendors and partners, ensuring that the Market runs smoothly so that it can be a place for people to gather and share in good food and good company. Located just a few minutes from campus, it’s a place where the CCES and Greenville community can come together, and Kaytina is proud, knowing that she has played a part.
Investing in the Future
As an alumna, Kaytina remains deeply connected to the CCES community through her service as a member of the Alumni Association Board. Through this involvement, she stays connected to the school and its mission and enjoys seeing firsthand how CCES continues to grow and evolve. Representing her fellow classmates and friends by serving on the Alumni Board is a way of giving back and contributing to the next generation.
Kaytina’s trademark positivity and optimism shape her view of the future. Looking ahead, she is excited about the outlook for both her family’s business and the thriving CCES community. Kaytina’s authentic approach to service – to her school, work, community and family – is what leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets. And of course that contagious smile and big heart.
The idea for the Trout Club emerged when 6th grade science teacher Jennie Overstreet noticed how many students wanted to learn how to fish after their experience with raising trout in the classroom. Recognizing an opportunity to build on their curiosity, she connected with Trout Unlimited, a key partner in the Trout in the Classroom program. They offered to teach fly fishing, expanding students’ learning beyond the classroom setting.
After discussing the idea with Middle School Head, Alex Kameen, who was eager to support the initiative, they worked together to establish the 7th & 8th grade Trout Club. Their goal was to provide students who had already participated in Trout in the Classroom with a deeper, more interactive experience that extended into the outdoors.
The club’s inaugural year (2023-24) featured a single fishing trip. The enthusiasm from club members made it clear that an expanded program was needed.
This year, the Trout Club took their first trip to Chanuga River recently with the next trip planned for March 14th. Additionally, students will continue to be introduced to a series of preparatory sessions designed to equip students with essential fly fishing skills:
- Knot Tying – Mastering the fundamental knots required for fly fishing.
- Fly Tying – Creating hand-tied flies to enhance the fishing experience.
- Casting Practice – Developing accuracy and technique before heading to the water.
The Trout Club offers students an opportunity to connect with nature, develop patience, and learn new skills that require focus and problem-solving. The experience fosters teamwork, as students support each other in mastering techniques and celebrating their achievements.