In a recent meeting of the House Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee's Banking and Insurance Subcommittee, discussions highlighted the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, particularly its potential to support students who are falling behind. The conversation underscored the growing demand for educational services and the need for innovative solutions to meet this demand without overburdening full-time educators.

One key point raised was the existence of AI tools that provide personalized tutoring, which could help bridge the gap in educational support. A committee member inquired about school districts currently utilizing such AI technologies, expressing interest in connecting with them to explore their experiences and outcomes. The response indicated that there are indeed districts employing these tools, and the committee is committed to facilitating these connections.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the importance of retention strategies in education, particularly following the implementation of the science of reading initiative. This initiative has introduced structured retention plans aimed at improving student outcomes rather than simply repeating the same material. The positive impact of these strategies was noted, with improvements in reading scores already being observed. The committee also expressed optimism about similar advancements in mathematics through the Palmetto Math project.

The discussions emphasized the critical role of the Education Oversight Committee in enforcing educational policies and ensuring that data is accurately measured and reported. This collaborative approach between policy makers and data analysts is seen as essential for enhancing educational opportunities for students across the state.

As the committee continues to explore these innovative educational strategies, the integration of AI and structured retention plans may play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in South Carolina. The next steps will likely involve further engagement with school districts and ongoing evaluation of the effectiveness of these initiatives.