South Carolina targets 75% student literacy by 2030 with new educational strategies

The South Carolina Education Committee met on April 30, 2025, to discuss significant advancements in educational strategies aimed at improving student literacy and math skills across the state. Central to the meeting was the unveiling of a strategic plan dubbed "one-four-one-four," which sets ambitious goals for student achievement by 2030.

The plan's "moonshot goal" aims for at least 75% of students to be at or above grade level by February 2030. To achieve this, the committee outlined four key three-year objectives, alongside a one-year objective that serves as a stepping stone toward these longer-term goals. A notable focus is on enhancing evidence-based instruction in foundational skills, particularly through initiatives like the Science of Reading and the Palmetto Math Project.

The Science of Reading initiative, funded with nearly $40 million by the legislature two years ago, is designed to provide high-quality professional learning for K-3 teachers. By the end of the 2025-2026 school year, all K-3 teachers are expected to have completed LETRS training, which emphasizes phonics as a core component of reading instruction. Currently, around 20,000 teachers are either in training or have completed this program, with stipends available for those who finish.

In addition to reading, the committee discussed the adoption of new high-quality instructional materials for English Language Arts (ELA) and math, which were deployed this year. A budget request for further funding to support high-quality math materials is set to be reviewed soon.

Another critical topic was the "Read to Succeed 2" initiative, which aims to ensure that students have a solid foundation in reading by the end of third grade. This program has increased the threshold for student retention, meaning that a significant number of third graders—over 16,000—would be eligible for retention if they do not meet reading standards. The committee emphasized the importance of mastering reading skills in the early grades to facilitate learning in subsequent years.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing commitment of South Carolina's education leaders to improve literacy and math outcomes for students, with a clear focus on implementing effective strategies and resources in classrooms statewide. As these initiatives unfold, they promise to have a lasting impact on the educational landscape and the future success of students across the state.