In a recent meeting of the General Government Subcommittee of the House Ways and Means Committee, significant strides were discussed regarding educational improvements in South Carolina. The committee outlined ambitious goals aimed at enhancing literacy and math skills among students, with a target of having at least 75% of students reading at or above grade level by February 1930.

Central to this initiative is the implementation of the Science of Reading and the Palmetto Math Project. These programs are designed to provide evidence-based instruction in foundational skills, particularly for students in kindergarten through third grade. The state has invested nearly $40 million over the past two years to ensure that K-3 teachers receive high-quality professional training in these areas. By the end of the 2025-2026 school year, all K-3 teachers are expected to complete the LETRS training, which focuses on phonics and essential reading strategies.

The committee also highlighted the importance of high-quality instructional materials, noting that new English Language Arts (ELA) curricula have already been adopted and deployed this year. A budget request for additional funding for high-quality math materials is set to be discussed in an upcoming meeting, emphasizing the need for comprehensive resources that align with the new educational standards.

Another critical aspect of the discussion was the Read to Succeed 2 initiative, which aims to improve reading proficiency among third graders. The program has raised the retention threshold, meaning that more students will be required to demonstrate reading competency before advancing to fourth grade. This change is crucial, as foundational reading skills are essential for academic success in later grades.

The committee encouraged community members to explore resources available on the state education website, which includes training materials and success stories from schools that have implemented these programs. As South Carolina moves forward with these educational reforms, the focus remains on ensuring that all students have the necessary skills to thrive in their academic journeys.