The Judiciary Committee's Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, & Special Laws Subcommittee convened on April 29, 2025, at 10:30 AM to address critical issues affecting education in South Carolina, particularly focusing on teacher turnover and chronic absenteeism in schools.

The meeting began with discussions on teacher retention, highlighting that teachers often leave the profession within their first five years. A member raised concerns about turnover rates in rural schools, seeking specific data on this issue. While no immediate statistics were available, the committee expressed a commitment to obtain this information for future discussions.

The conversation then shifted to chronic absenteeism, a pressing concern for school districts statewide. A committee member inquired about feedback from parents regarding this issue. It was noted that initial discussions had taken place with high school students to understand factors influencing attendance. The committee had also been tasked with gathering insights from parents, and focus groups had recently concluded. Although results were still being analyzed, the committee expressed eagerness to share findings once available.

The discussions underscored that chronic absenteeism is not unique to South Carolina but reflects a national trend, with various states grappling with similar challenges. The committee acknowledged the urgency of addressing these issues to improve educational outcomes across the state.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding teacher turnover and student attendance, with plans for further investigation and data collection to inform future strategies. The committee's ongoing efforts aim to tackle these challenges effectively, ensuring better support for educators and students alike.