South Carolina launches Palmetto math project to improve underperforming schools

The South Carolina Senate Finance Special Subcommittee convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss significant educational initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes and school safety across the state. A key focus of the meeting was the expansion of the Palmetto Math Project, which seeks to provide additional resources to underperforming schools, mirroring the successful Palmetto Literacy Project. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance educational performance through targeted support.

The subcommittee outlined four main strategies to bolster education and workforce development. The first strategy emphasizes expanding access to employment through aligned career pathways and apprenticeships, reflecting a commitment to workforce development prioritized in previous sessions. The second strategy involves deploying care initiatives to support local leaders in fostering positive school cultures and addressing mental health needs among students.

A notable discussion point was the implementation of a new cell phone policy in schools, designed to limit distractions and enhance focus during school hours. This policy mandates that local school boards adopt a model policy regarding cell phone usage, with specific guidelines on how and when devices can be accessed. The subcommittee acknowledged mixed feedback from teachers regarding the policy, indicating a need for clearer communication about its provisions.

Additionally, the budget request for the upcoming fiscal year was a significant topic of discussion. The subcommittee is seeking $200 million to raise starting teacher salaries to $50,000, part of a broader investment in education that has seen $1.6 billion in new state funding since 2018. This funding aims to support student success initiatives, including summer reading camps and high-quality instructional materials.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing discussions about school safety, particularly regarding the presence of school resource officers (SROs). The subcommittee recognized the challenges in hiring qualified personnel for these roles and emphasized the importance of strong leadership in schools to improve retention and educational outcomes.

As South Carolina moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering a supportive educational environment that prioritizes student success and community engagement. The subcommittee's efforts reflect a proactive approach to addressing the evolving needs of students and educators across the state.