BCS Insider
July 2024
Kicking Off the School Year with Good Vibes
What an incredible start to the school year! The energy in our classrooms and hallways this past week was filled with excitement, curiosity, and joy as students and staff begin another year of learning and growth together.
On the first day of school, our leadership team gathered to send off our dedicated bus drivers as they “rolled out” to bring students to school. It was a moment that perfectly captured the teamwork and care that make our district so special—every role, every person, every effort matters in shaping a successful year for our students.
As we look ahead, I am filled with optimism. This year will be a time of new opportunities, strong partnerships, and shared success. Together, we will continue to create a positive, supportive environment where every student can thrive.
Thank you for being such an important part of our school community. Here’s to a great year ahead—filled with learning, laughter, and good vibes for everyone!
Yours in Education,
Dr. Ryan S. Saxe
Cheyanne Minnick-Buhrts, says being crowned Miss Berkeley County Youth Fair is about more than a title.
“I’m incredibly honored,” said Minnick-Buhrts. “It gives me the opportunity to serve as a role model in my community, promote the importance of agriculture, and demonstrate to younger generations that you can make a real impact—no matter your age.”
Her roots in the fair run deep. A senior at Musselman High School and a third-generation 4-H’er and agriculturalist, Minnick-Buhrts said she’s been part of the Youth Fair since before she could walk.
“I was at the fairgrounds with my family from the very beginning, surrounded by animals and people who share the same passion for agriculture," said Minnick-Buhrts.
Some of her fondest memories come from time spent with friends.
“One of my favorite memories has to be washing animals with my friends and ending up in water wars,” ," said Minnick-Buhrts. “It’s those little moments of laughter and friendship that make the fair so unforgettable.”
When it comes to events, two stand out every year.
“I always look forward to the rodeo and Livestock Sale,” said Minnick-Buhrts. “The sale can be emotional when it’s time to part with an animal we’ve worked so hard with, but it also marks the start of new goals and projects.”
Minnick-Buhrts believes the Youth Fair holds a special place in the county.
“It brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate agriculture, youth development, and tradition," said Minnick-Buhrts.. “It’s more than just an annual event; it’s a time for the community to reconnect, support one another, and celebrate the hard work of our youth.”
As Miss Youth Fair, she hopes to set an example for younger kids.
“I want them to see that I’m just like them, a young person with big dreams and a deep love for agriculture," said Minnick-Buhrts. “With hard work and passion, they can achieve their goals and be leaders in their own way.”
Her own future goals include becoming a vocational agriculture teacher and a veterinarian. She credits the fair with preparing her for that path.
“Being involved has given me real-world experience in animal care, public speaking, and leadership," said Minnick-Buhrts.
For anyone considering joining, her message is simple: “Get involved, you won’t regret it. The fair teaches responsibility, builds character, and gives you a second family," said Minnick-Buhrts. "It’s not just about the one week of events—it’s about the growth you experience all year.”
When she isn’t competing or volunteering, Minnick-Buhrts enjoys fair traditions and food. She described the Youth Fair in three words; thrilling, welcoming, unforgettable.” And her go-to meal? A chicken sandwich with mayo, fresh watermelon, and a sweet tea from the young farmers' booth.
She also looks forward to a lighthearted tradition each year with her best friend. “We guess the weight of our animals before check-in," said Minnick-Buhrts. “Whoever gets closest gets to soak the other at the wash rack. It’s become a fun tradition we can’t miss.”
For Minnick-Buhrts, the fair is about community, connection, and carrying on traditions that strengthen Berkeley County year after year.
Berkeley County Schools uses several tools to keep families informed and engaged throughout the school year:
Seesaw (PreK–2): Classroom activities, updates, student work, teacher updates, and messaging.
Schoology (Grades 3–12): Course materials, assignments, announcements, and teacher messaging.
NTouch: text, and email from schools and the district. Automated phone calls are reserved for attendance notifications and emergencies only.
Primary and secondary guardians listed on a student’s Annual Forms and Information Update are automatically signed up to receive NTouch alerts.
Community members may also subscribe. Please note: if you received NTouch alerts last year, you will need to register again.
- BCS App: Download the Berkeley County Schools app and enable push notifications from the district or schools of your choice.
K12 Email: A secure and official communication channel for messaging between families and school and district staff.
We’re excited to start sharing highlights from each regular meeting of the Berkeley County Board of Education!
Starting in September, our recaps will also spotlight the amazing students, dedicated staff, and outstanding community members who are recognized during our meetings. These updates will be posted on our website and across our social media channels—so you won’t miss a moment of the celebration or the important work of our Board.
Visit the link below to catch up on the last two meetings of the Board of Education.
