Superintendent Weaver outlines South Carolina's education mission and budget priorities

In a recent meeting of the South Carolina Judiciary Committee, significant discussions centered around the mission and strategic goals of the State Department of Education, led by Superintendent Weaver. The committee reviewed a newly crafted mission statement aimed at enhancing educational outcomes for students across the state. The mission emphasizes serving students, supporting teachers, empowering parents, and engaging the community to ensure that every student graduates prepared to reach their full potential.

A key highlight of the meeting was the introduction of the strategic plan known as "1 4 1 4," which outlines ambitious objectives for the next several years. The plan includes a "moonshot goal" of having at least 75% of students performing at or above grade level by February 2030. This goal is supported by three-year objectives that focus on evidence-based instruction, particularly in foundational skills such as reading and math.

The committee discussed the Science of Reading initiative, which has received substantial funding of nearly $40 million to provide professional training for K-3 teachers. By the end of the 2025-2026 school year, all K-3 teachers are expected to complete training in the Science of Reading, which emphasizes phonics as a critical component of literacy. Additionally, the new curriculum for English Language Arts (ELA) has been adopted, and there are ongoing efforts to secure funding for high-quality instructional materials in math.

Another significant topic was the "Read to Succeed 2" program, which aims to improve reading proficiency among third graders. The program has raised the threshold for student retention, emphasizing the importance of mastering reading skills by the end of third grade to facilitate future learning.

The meeting also addressed the Palmetto Math Project, which seeks to replicate the success of the Palmetto Literacy Project by providing additional resources and support to underperforming schools in math education.

In terms of broader educational strategies, the committee highlighted the importance of expanding access to employment opportunities and aligning career pathways with apprenticeships and work-based learning. This aligns with ongoing workforce development initiatives prioritized by state leadership.

Mental health and behavioral support in schools were also discussed, with plans to deploy initiatives that empower local leaders to foster positive school cultures. The introduction of a cell phone policy framework was noted, aimed at addressing the impact of smartphones on student well-being, particularly in light of rising mental health concerns.

Finally, the committee reviewed budget requests, noting that since the 2018-2019 fiscal year, there has been a significant investment of $1.6 billion in state funds for education. This includes a request for an additional $200 million to raise starting teacher salaries to $50,000, reflecting a commitment to improving teacher compensation and support.

Overall, the discussions in this meeting underscore a comprehensive approach to enhancing educational outcomes in South Carolina, with a focus on foundational skills, teacher support, and community engagement. The committee's actions and proposed initiatives are poised to have a lasting impact on the state's educational landscape.