Committee gives favorable report to bill allowing charter schools military‑dependent enrollment preference

The Senate Education Committee voted to send House Bill 3862 to the full Senate with a favorable report after hearing testimony that charter schools should be able to give an enrollment preference to dependents of active duty military personnel.

Katie Grinstead, committee staff, summarized the measure and subcommittee chair Senator Young (Aiken) described testimony from charter representatives and military families supporting the change. Committee members discussed consequences for waiting lists and for applicants already on charter school wait lists where demand is high.

Why it matters: Supporters said the measure helps military families who relocate frequently and that nine other states already allow similar military preferences; opponents and some members noted the effect on local residents on charter waiting lists.

What the bill does

Katie Grinstead said the bill would allow charter schools to give enrollment preference to students who are dependents of active duty military residing or stationed in South Carolina. The preference would not exceed 20% of a school's total enrollment.

Subcommittee testimony

Senator Young said three witnesses testified in favor, including a representative of charter schools, Dr. Trevor Ivy (identified as the principal of Liberty STEAM…