South Carolina Department of Education outlines mission and strategic goals for student success
April 30, 2025 | 2025 Legislative Meetings, South Carolina
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In a recent meeting of the South Carolina Legislative Oversight Subcommittee, key discussions centered around enhancing educational opportunities for students across the state. The meeting, held on April 30, 2025, featured insights from Philip Cease, the Director of Governmental Affairs for the State Department of Education, who presented the department's new mission and strategic goals aimed at improving student outcomes.
Cease emphasized the department's commitment to serving students, supporting teachers, empowering parents, and engaging the community. The overarching goal is to ensure that every student graduates prepared to reach their full potential. This mission is part of a broader strategic plan known as "one-four-one-four," which outlines ambitious objectives for the next several years.
A significant highlight of the meeting was the introduction of a "moonshot goal" to have at least 75% of students performing at or above grade level by February 2030. To achieve this, the department has set three-year objectives focused on advancing evidence-based instruction, particularly through initiatives like the Science of Reading and the Palmetto Math Project. Cease noted that the legislature had previously allocated nearly $40 million to provide high-quality professional development for K-3 teachers, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills to teach foundational reading and math effectively.
The discussions also touched on the importance of ongoing support and resources for educators, which are crucial for implementing these strategies successfully. The committee members expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts within the Department of Education and the proactive approach to addressing educational challenges.
As the meeting concluded, the focus remained on the tangible impacts these initiatives will have on students and the community. The commitment to improving educational outcomes reflects a broader goal of fostering a well-prepared future generation in South Carolina. The next steps will involve monitoring progress towards these objectives and ensuring that all stakeholders remain engaged in the educational process.
Cease emphasized the department's commitment to serving students, supporting teachers, empowering parents, and engaging the community. The overarching goal is to ensure that every student graduates prepared to reach their full potential. This mission is part of a broader strategic plan known as "one-four-one-four," which outlines ambitious objectives for the next several years.
A significant highlight of the meeting was the introduction of a "moonshot goal" to have at least 75% of students performing at or above grade level by February 2030. To achieve this, the department has set three-year objectives focused on advancing evidence-based instruction, particularly through initiatives like the Science of Reading and the Palmetto Math Project. Cease noted that the legislature had previously allocated nearly $40 million to provide high-quality professional development for K-3 teachers, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills to teach foundational reading and math effectively.
The discussions also touched on the importance of ongoing support and resources for educators, which are crucial for implementing these strategies successfully. The committee members expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts within the Department of Education and the proactive approach to addressing educational challenges.
As the meeting concluded, the focus remained on the tangible impacts these initiatives will have on students and the community. The commitment to improving educational outcomes reflects a broader goal of fostering a well-prepared future generation in South Carolina. The next steps will involve monitoring progress towards these objectives and ensuring that all stakeholders remain engaged in the educational process.
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