School attendance concerns grow as students prefer online classes

The Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee's Banking and Insurance Subcommittee convened on May 7, 2025, to discuss key issues affecting education and student attendance in South Carolina. A significant focus of the meeting was the changing attitudes of students towards traditional schooling, particularly in light of the increasing availability of online education options.

Committee members expressed concern over students' perceptions that they could forgo in-person attendance in favor of online learning. This shift in mindset raises questions about the effectiveness of online education and its impact on student engagement and academic performance. One member highlighted the importance of parental responsibility in ensuring that children attend school and receive a proper education, emphasizing that parents play a crucial role in guiding their children's educational choices.

The discussion underscored the need for further examination of these attitudes and their implications for the education system. As the committee continues to explore this issue, it aims to address the challenges posed by the growing preference for online learning and its potential effects on student attendance and achievement.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing dialogue about the future of education in South Carolina, particularly as it relates to balancing traditional schooling with the rise of digital learning platforms. The committee plans to gather more data and insights to inform future decisions and policies regarding education in the state.