The South Carolina Education Oversight Full Committee meeting on April 14, 2025, spotlighted significant developments in early childhood education, particularly regarding the state's full-day 4K programs. The committee emphasized the importance of access to these programs, which are crucial for preparing young children for future academic success.

A key focus of the discussion was the annual evaluation mandated by Proviso 1.47, which oversees the Comprehensive Early Reading Development and Intervention Program (CERDIP). This program encompasses state-funded full-day 4K initiatives, including those offered through First Steps and private providers. Notably, the committee clarified that children enrolled in Head Start programs are not included in the evaluation to maintain accurate data.

Over the past three years, changes to the legislation governing these programs have been significant. The committee highlighted the inclusion of average daily attendance counts in the evaluation process for the 2024-2025 school year, which aims to provide a clearer picture of access to 4K programs. The committee acknowledged the need for more robust data collection and recommended expanding literacy training for educators involved in these programs.

In a move to enhance accessibility, the committee announced that waitlist data from Local Education Agencies (LEAs) will now be shared with the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) by September 1, rather than the previous November 15 deadline. This change is expected to expedite children's access to state-funded full-day 4K programs, ensuring they can enroll more quickly.

The report presented at the meeting aims to address several critical questions regarding access to 4K programs in South Carolina, including the number of available CERDIP programs. As the committee continues to refine its approach, the focus remains on ensuring that all eligible children can benefit from these essential early education opportunities.