Education Committee discusses discipline issues and AI tutoring solutions for student retention

The Education and Public Works Committee of the South Carolina Legislature convened on April 30, 2025, to discuss pressing issues in the state's education system, focusing on teacher retention, classroom discipline, and the integration of technology in education.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the lack of discipline in schools, which several teachers reported as a contributing factor to high turnover rates among educators. Committee members acknowledged that while this issue has been highlighted in annual teacher surveys, it has not yet been addressed by the agency. The discussion underscored the need for strategies to improve classroom behavior to support teacher retention and enhance the learning environment.

Another key topic was the potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) for individualized tutoring, particularly for students who are falling behind. A committee member inquired about school districts currently implementing AI solutions, expressing interest in connecting with them to explore how technology could help meet the growing demands of educational services. The agency representatives indicated they could provide information on districts utilizing AI in education.

The committee also discussed the importance of retention strategies, particularly in light of recent legislative changes aimed at improving reading and math scores. The introduction of intentional retention plans, rather than simply repeating the same material, has shown positive results in reading proficiency. The ongoing Palmetto Math project is expected to yield similar improvements in mathematics.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the critical role of data collection and analysis in shaping educational policies. The Education Oversight Committee was recognized for its efforts in measuring the effectiveness of educational initiatives, ensuring that the state can make informed decisions to enhance educational opportunities for students. The discussions emphasized a collaborative approach to addressing challenges in the education system, with a focus on creating a supportive environment for both teachers and students.