In a pivotal discussion during the South Carolina Senate Education Committee meeting on April 30, 2025, members highlighted the effectiveness of face-to-face learning in boosting student achievement. The committee revealed findings from an evaluation conducted last year, indicating that students performed better academically in traditional classroom settings compared to online or hybrid formats. This year, the committee plans to repeat the evaluation to further assess these outcomes.

The meeting also delved into the historical context of educational reforms in South Carolina, tracing back to 1997 when Governor David Beasley established the PASS Commission. This initiative arose from concerns within the business community about high school graduates lacking the necessary skills for the workforce. The commission's findings led to the formation of the Education Oversight Committee (EOC) in 1998, which has since played a crucial role in shaping educational standards and accountability in the state.

The EOC is unique in its composition, bringing together educators, policymakers, legislators, and business leaders to collaboratively discuss and improve education. South Carolina's commitment to educational standards is exemplified by the "Profile of the South Carolina Graduate," a framework established in 2016 that outlines the essential skills and knowledge students should possess upon graduation. This initiative positions South Carolina as a leader in educational reform, setting a benchmark that other states, like North Carolina, are now beginning to follow.

As the committee continues its work, the focus remains on enhancing student readiness for both higher education and the workforce, with the upcoming evaluation expected to provide further insights into the effectiveness of different learning modalities.