School board discusses teacher turnover due to lack of discipline in classrooms

The Family and Veterans' Services Committee's Veterans Affairs Subcommittee met on May 6, 2025, to discuss pressing issues affecting education and teacher retention in South Carolina. A significant topic of conversation was the lack of discipline in schools, which several teachers have reported as a growing concern.

During the meeting, a committee member raised the issue of classroom disruptions and their impact on teacher turnover rates. It was noted that many conscientious teachers have expressed frustration over the discipline problems they face, which can lead to a challenging work environment.

While the committee acknowledged the feedback from teachers, they admitted that the agency has not yet specifically addressed behavior management in schools. The annual teacher survey has highlighted discipline as a recurring issue, but no concrete measures have been implemented to tackle it.

The discussion also touched on historical disciplinary practices, with members recalling their own experiences with paddling in schools. This reflection underscored the ongoing debate about discipline methods and their effectiveness in today's educational landscape.

The meeting concluded without a definitive plan to address the concerns raised, leaving the issue of classroom discipline and its effects on teacher retention as a critical area for future consideration.