Colen Lindell - Aiken County School Board District 4 North Augusta

Colen Lindell - Aiken County School Board District 4 North Augusta School Board Trustee for Aiken County School Board District 4 North Augusta seat. Election Day is November 5th, when we all vote for President.

I am humbled to be running for Aiken County School Board District 4 (North Augusta). For my race, no District 4 candidate will appear on the ballot. You will need to correctly spell my name, Colen Lindell, by write-in. I am running to be a STRONG VOICE and EFFECTIVE LEADER. I will advocate for our teachers and children, ensuring that North Augusta receives its fair share of resources. We are the p

remier community to raise our children, and it’s crucial that our local schools reflect this. I look forward to the campaign trail and earning your trust, support, and vote. Write in Colen Lindell for School Board District 4 on November 5th. Issues:

- School Safety
- Supporting our teachers
- Improving and maintaining school facilities
- Prioritizing our children’s success
- Providing strong constituent services
- Expanding workforce development and career pathways for students

A little about myself:

* Managing Partner at The Hitchcock Company
* Current Board Member of the Salvation Army (Past Chairman)
* Member of North Augusta Rotary Club
* Leadership Cultivation Committee Member (North Augusta Forward)
* Member of the North Augusta Chamber
* Member of Leadership North Augusta
* Board Member of Boys & Girls Club (Board Member of the Year 2018)
* Member of the North Augusta High School Booster Club
* Attends True North Church

Thank you to North Augusta’s own Representative Bill Hixon and the entire Aiken County Delegation for hosting the North ...
04/24/2026

Thank you to North Augusta’s own Representative Bill Hixon and the entire Aiken County Delegation for hosting the North Augusta High School girls’ and boys’ basketball teams—both state champions—at the South Carolina Statehouse.

This was my statement tonight at the Board of Education meeting after the presentation the school district made. Mr. Cha...
04/21/2026

This was my statement tonight at the Board of Education meeting after the presentation the school district made.

Mr. Chairman, Superintendent Dr. Murphy,

I want to begin by stating, for the record, that as a School Board member, I was never made aware that these changes were being considered or implemented. I never voted to approve these changes, and I would not have supported removing a course offering from Paul Knox Middle School or North Augusta Middle School.

Thank you for allowing this presentation and giving both the Board and the public a clearer understanding of how course offerings and allocations are determined across our district.

I want to be clear—I am a strong supporter of fine arts education, including music, band, orchestra, and string programs, not only in North Augusta but throughout Aiken County Public Schools. These programs are not extras; they are essential to a well-rounded education and play a critical role in student development.

I do appreciate the effort to ensure that Paul Knox Middle School and Kennedy Middle School will have some form of a chorus program next year. However, I would be remiss if I did not say that the current structure—splitting a teacher between two schools for half the year each—is far from ideal. It limits consistency, relationship-building, and the long-term growth that strong programs require.

It is especially important to recognize that this was a first-year teacher who had not even been in the position for a full year before these allocation changes were made. Building a successful music program takes time, stability, and trust within the school community. This teacher deserved the opportunity to complete at least one full year—if not more—to properly establish and grow the program so that students in the North Augusta community could fully benefit and continue the strong tradition of chorus into high school.

Looking ahead, I believe North Augusta Middle School will have an even greater need for a strong fine arts presence, particularly with the completion of the renovated facility. As that school improves, we can expect increased interest and enrollment from families who value a well-rounded educational experience—including access to the arts.

My hope is that the district will seriously consider transitioning this position back to fully serve Paul Knox and North Augusta Middle Schools in the future. Providing stability and support in these programs is how we build lasting success—not just for one year, but for generations of students.

A well-rounded education includes the arts, and our students deserve every opportunity to explore and grow through those experiences.

Thank you.

North Augusta is once again saying goodbye to a legend.Longtime coach Al Young has officially announced his retirement—t...
04/18/2026

North Augusta is once again saying goodbye to a legend.

Longtime coach Al Young has officially announced his retirement—this time, for good. And if anyone has earned the right to step away, it’s him.

Before becoming a coaching icon, Young made his mark as a standout athlete at South Carolina State, earning a place in the school’s Hall of Fame. He went on to the NFL, where he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1971 and was even on the roster during the historic “Immaculate Reception.”

But his greatest legacy was built on the sidelines.

Young dedicated 37 years to coaching boys basketball and track & field before stepping away in 2014. When North Augusta needed him again, he answered the call—returning to lead the girls basketball program.

The result? Dominance.

Under his leadership, the Lady Jackets captured 7 state championships in just 10 seasons. Even more impressive, his teams compiled an incredible 276-25 record over the past 11 years.

That kind of consistency doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built through leadership, discipline, and a standard of excellence that Coach Young brought every single day.

Coach, you’ve left your mark on generations. This time, enjoy retirement—you’ve more than earned it.

And thank you to Ashley Brown for helping share this story with the community.

I just wrapped up an interview with News Channel 6 where we discussed the chorus programs at Paul Knox Middle School and...
04/03/2026

I just wrapped up an interview with News Channel 6 where we discussed the chorus programs at Paul Knox Middle School and North Augusta Middle School.

I shared that I was not originally made aware of the decisions impacting these programs, and I made it clear where I stand — I fully support chorus, music, band, orchestra, and all fine arts programs across North Augusta and Aiken County Public Schools.

These programs matter. They are not extras — they are essential. They help shape confident students, build discipline, and create opportunities that reach far beyond the classroom.

I also emphasized that I will continue to be an advocate for these programs moving forward. At the same time, this is something our community can help strengthen as well.

If we want these programs to remain strong, we need participation.

I encourage parents to have their students enroll in chorus and other fine arts programs. Our middle and high school programs are already strong and phenomenal — and with continued support, they will stay that way.

These programs are a major asset to our students, our schools, and our community. Let’s make sure they continue to thrive.

I will also be asking the district to provide a public presentation outlining how this original decision was reached and explaining how decisions like this are made in the first place.

04/03/2026

"The Aiken County Public School District has announced that a full-time chorus teacher will be split between Paul Knox and Kennedy Middle Schools, school officials say.

Originally, the district explained on Wednesday its decision to eliminate chorus at Paul Knox, Kennedy, and North Augusta middle schools starting in the 2026-2027 school year.

However, on Thursday, Paul Knox Middle School discovered that approximately 50 chorus course requests from students were not included in the information used to form the original decision, according to the district."

Earlier today, I completed an interview with News Channel 12 regarding the proposed cuts to choral programs at North Aug...
04/01/2026

Earlier today, I completed an interview with News Channel 12 regarding the proposed cuts to choral programs at North Augusta Middle School and Paul Knox Middle School.

During that conversation, I shared what I had learned earlier in the day—that projected enrollment at both schools is expected to decline next year. As a result, participation in chorus specifically has decreased, and that lower enrollment is what is driving the decision to cut these particular programs. I want to be clear that this does not impact other fine arts programs at these schools—those programs are not being cut.

That said, I strongly believe that music and the arts are a critical part of a well-rounded education. Both of these schools currently have strong choral programs, led by a dedicated teacher who does an excellent job. These students go on to continue their musical development at the high school level, where we also have an outstanding choral program. We should be doing everything we can to support and sustain these opportunities.

I will be requesting that the district provide more detailed information on this decision at an upcoming board meeting in April. Additionally, I plan to explore making a motion to reinstate these choral programs for the next school year. I believe we owe it to our students and our community to fully evaluate every option before allowing programs like this to be removed.

I also want to thank the parents and community members who have reached out to me. Your voices matter, and I encourage you to continue sharing your thoughts—whether by email or on social media. Engagement from our community plays a vital role in these decisions.

Moving forward, I will also be encouraging families to consider enrolling their students in chorus. Strong participation is key to keeping these programs viable and thriving.

Our goal should be simple: provide students with as many meaningful opportunities as possible to be part of something special. I remain committed to doing everything I can to support that mission.

04/01/2026

Earlier this evening, the public became aware that Aiken County Public Schools is planning to cut chorus and choral programs at Paul Knox Middle School and North Augusta Middle School.

As a member of the Aiken County School Board, I want to be clear: I was not informed of this decision by the district office. At no point was this brought to my attention, and I would not have supported eliminating these programs at either school.

Our arts and music programs are not optional—they are a vital part of a well-rounded education. They provide students with opportunities to develop creativity, discipline, confidence, and a sense of belonging. These programs matter, and they have a lasting impact on our students and our community.

I will be reaching out to the district office first thing in the morning to better understand how this decision was made, why these programs are being considered for removal, and what steps we can take to preserve them.

Our students deserve clarity, and they deserve every opportunity to succeed—both inside and outside the classroom. I am committed to getting answers and advocating for these programs.

Strengthening Workforce Development in Aiken CountyWorkforce development is not just an economic priority—it is the foun...
03/24/2026

Strengthening Workforce Development in Aiken County

Workforce development is not just an economic priority—it is the foundation for the long-term success of Aiken County. As our region continues to grow and attract new industries, the need for a skilled, prepared workforce has never been more important. The encouraging news is that Aiken County is not waiting to react—we are actively leading.

Aiken County Public Schools is taking a bold step forward with the development of a new Career and Technology Center on the campus of Aiken Technical College. This strategic investment represents more than just a new facility—it reflects a commitment to aligning education with real-world opportunity. By placing high school students in direct proximity to technical training, industry certifications, and postsecondary pathways, we are creating a seamless pipeline from classroom to career.

This effort is further strengthened by the outstanding work being done at Aiken Technical College and the University of South Carolina Aiken. Both institutions are playing a critical role in preparing our young people for high-demand careers in fields such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, cybersecurity, and engineering. Their partnerships with local industries ensure that curriculum is relevant, training is hands-on, and students graduate ready to contribute on day one.

Data from Western Carolina Economic Development, as highlighted by Will Williams, underscores the urgency of this work. Across our region, thousands of jobs remain unfilled due to a gap between employer needs and workforce readiness. In fact, a significant percentage of employers report difficulty finding workers with the necessary technical skills, even as wages in skilled trades and technical fields continue to rise. This is both a challenge and an opportunity.

If we continue to invest in workforce development, we position Aiken County to compete—and win—when it comes to economic growth. More importantly, we provide our students with clear, attainable pathways to success without requiring them to leave our community.

Workforce development is not a single initiative—it is a shared responsibility. It requires collaboration between schools, higher education, industry leaders, and the community. In Aiken County, that collaboration is happening, and it is making a difference.

The work being done today will define the strength of our workforce tomorrow. And in Aiken County, the future is being built right now.

Colen Lindell
Aiken County School Board, District 4
North Augusta

I recently joined Congressman Joe Wilson during his visit to Belvedere Elementary School—and it was a great day for our ...
03/24/2026

I recently joined Congressman Joe Wilson during his visit to Belvedere Elementary School—and it was a great day for our students and staff.

During his visit, he toured the ongoing construction at the school, getting a firsthand look at the progress being made to improve the learning environment for our kids. He also had the opportunity to walk through the halls and check out the incredible art displays created by students.

And let’s just say… the talent is real.

From colorful creativity to detailed designs, it’s clear that Belvedere Elementary is full of bright, gifted students who are doing amazing things both inside and outside the classroom.

Moments like this matter—when leaders take the time to see what’s happening on the ground, and when our students get to showcase their hard work and creativity.

👏 Big things are happening at Belvedere Elementary!

This afternoon, the North Augusta community came together to celebrate the North Augusta High School boys’ and girls’ st...
03/22/2026

This afternoon, the North Augusta community came together to celebrate the North Augusta High School boys’ and girls’ state championship victories.

A big thank you to North Augusta Forward and the North Augusta Yellow Jacket Club for organizing such a great event, as well as Ryan Able and Crystal Basket for their efforts.

It was wonderful hearing from the coaches, players, and supporters as we recognized this incredible achievement for our community.

Congratulations, Yellow Jackets! 🐝

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North Augusta, SC
29841

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