South Carolina school committee explores attendance issues through student and parent focus groups
April 30, 2025 | 2025 Legislative Meetings, South Carolina
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The South Carolina House Ways and Means Committee is taking significant steps to address student attendance and academic readiness, as revealed in their recent meeting on April 30, 2025. A key focus of the discussion was the alarming trend of declining school attendance, which committee members noted is not unique to South Carolina but part of a national issue.
Committee members shared insights from recent focus groups conducted with high school students and parents, aimed at understanding the factors influencing attendance. Preliminary results indicate that many students feel less compelled to attend school if they can complete assignments online, raising concerns about motivation and engagement. The committee emphasized the importance of parental involvement in ensuring children attend school regularly, particularly as students approach graduation.
In response to these findings, the committee is launching a public awareness campaign designed to foster a sense of belonging among students. Simple gestures, such as acknowledging when a student returns after an absence, are seen as vital to making students feel valued and connected to their school community.
Additionally, the committee discussed the implications of current graduation rates, which stand at 85% for on-time graduation. However, there are significant gaps in academic proficiency, with only about half of students reading and doing math at grade level. This disparity has led to a debate about the practice of social promotion—advancing students to the next grade regardless of their readiness. Some committee members argued that holding students back could ultimately benefit their long-term academic success, provided that they receive tailored support and quality instruction.
The committee also highlighted the importance of preparing students for life after graduation, whether that involves college or entering the workforce. Various pathways, including dual credit courses and vocational assessments, are being explored to ensure students are equipped with the necessary skills and qualifications for their future endeavors.
As the committee continues to analyze feedback from parents and students, the outcomes of these discussions are expected to shape future educational policies and initiatives in South Carolina, aiming to enhance student attendance and academic achievement across the state.
Committee members shared insights from recent focus groups conducted with high school students and parents, aimed at understanding the factors influencing attendance. Preliminary results indicate that many students feel less compelled to attend school if they can complete assignments online, raising concerns about motivation and engagement. The committee emphasized the importance of parental involvement in ensuring children attend school regularly, particularly as students approach graduation.
In response to these findings, the committee is launching a public awareness campaign designed to foster a sense of belonging among students. Simple gestures, such as acknowledging when a student returns after an absence, are seen as vital to making students feel valued and connected to their school community.
Additionally, the committee discussed the implications of current graduation rates, which stand at 85% for on-time graduation. However, there are significant gaps in academic proficiency, with only about half of students reading and doing math at grade level. This disparity has led to a debate about the practice of social promotion—advancing students to the next grade regardless of their readiness. Some committee members argued that holding students back could ultimately benefit their long-term academic success, provided that they receive tailored support and quality instruction.
The committee also highlighted the importance of preparing students for life after graduation, whether that involves college or entering the workforce. Various pathways, including dual credit courses and vocational assessments, are being explored to ensure students are equipped with the necessary skills and qualifications for their future endeavors.
As the committee continues to analyze feedback from parents and students, the outcomes of these discussions are expected to shape future educational policies and initiatives in South Carolina, aiming to enhance student attendance and academic achievement across the state.
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