The Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee convened on April 30, 2025, at 9:00 am to discuss various topics pertinent to the State Department of Education and its initiatives. The meeting commenced with expressions of gratitude towards Dana for her oversight in education and her contributions to the committee's work.

Following the opening remarks, the committee welcomed Philip Cease, the director of governmental affairs for the State Department of Education. Cease presented a PowerPoint outlining the department's new mission and vision, which had been developed through collaborative sessions involving various stakeholders. He emphasized the mission of the South Carolina Department of Education: to serve students, support teachers, empower parents, and engage the community, ensuring that every student graduates prepared to reach their full potential.

Cease briefly highlighted the core values established during the development process but opted to save detailed discussions for later reference in the slides. The committee members were encouraged to ask questions after the presentation, indicating an openness to dialogue and further clarification on the department's objectives.

The meeting underscored the committee's commitment to educational oversight and the importance of aligning the department's mission with the needs of students and the community. As the session progressed, members were expected to engage with the presented information and consider its implications for future educational policies and initiatives in South Carolina.