South Carolina Education Leaders Propose $200M for Teacher Salaries and Math Resources

The South Carolina Legislature's Judiciary Subcommittee convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss significant educational initiatives aimed at enhancing student success and teacher support across the state. A key focus of the meeting was the ongoing implementation of high-quality instructional materials in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics, which are crucial for aligning with newly adopted educational standards.

Currently, 20,000 teachers are either in training or have completed their training, which is part of a broader effort to improve educational outcomes. The committee highlighted a budget request set to be reviewed the following day, seeking funding to ensure that all new standards are accompanied by effective instructional materials. This initiative is expected to bolster classroom fidelity in teaching practices.

The discussion also touched on the "Read to Succeed 2" program, which aims to improve reading proficiency among third graders. With the new retention threshold, approximately 16,238 students may be affected, emphasizing the importance of mastering reading skills by the end of third grade to facilitate future learning.

In addition to literacy efforts, the meeting introduced the Palmetto Math Project, which seeks to replicate the success of the Palmetto Literacy Project by providing additional resources to underperforming schools. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance math education and improve student performance in this critical subject area.

The committee also addressed mental health and behavioral support in schools, proposing a framework for managing cell phone use on campuses. This policy aims to create a focused learning environment, responding to concerns about the impact of smartphones on student well-being.

Furthermore, the Superintendent's budget request includes a substantial investment of $200 million to raise starting teacher salaries to $50,000, alongside additional funding for summer reading camps and school safety measures. The emphasis on strong school leadership was noted as a vital factor in teacher retention and student success.

As South Carolina moves forward with these educational strategies, the committee's discussions underscore a commitment to fostering a supportive and effective learning environment for both students and educators. The outcomes of the upcoming budget review will be pivotal in shaping the future of education in the state.