South Carolina committee investigates chronic absenteeism in rural schools

The Government Efficiency and Legislative Oversight Committee's Education and Cultural Affairs Subcommittee met on May 6, 2025, to discuss pressing issues affecting South Carolina's education system, particularly teacher turnover and chronic absenteeism among students.

One of the primary concerns raised during the meeting was the high turnover rate of teachers, especially within the first five years of their careers. Committee members noted that this trend is particularly pronounced in rural schools, although specific statistics were not immediately available. A commitment was made to gather data on this issue to better understand the extent of the problem.

Another significant topic was chronic absenteeism, which has been identified as a critical issue affecting student performance across the state. Committee members highlighted the importance of understanding the factors contributing to absenteeism. Initial discussions with high school students have taken place, and the committee is now seeking feedback from parents. Focus groups with parents have recently concluded, and results are expected to provide valuable insights into the challenges families face in ensuring regular school attendance.

The committee acknowledged that chronic absenteeism is not unique to South Carolina but is a national concern, with many states grappling with similar challenges. The discussions underscored the need for targeted strategies to address these issues and improve educational outcomes for students.

As the committee continues its work, it aims to compile and analyze the feedback from parents and further investigate the factors influencing teacher retention and student attendance. The outcomes of these efforts could lead to significant policy recommendations aimed at enhancing the educational landscape in South Carolina.