The Senate Medical Affairs Committee convened on May 1, 2025, to address several key issues related to public health and education in South Carolina. The meeting focused on the importance of parental involvement in student attendance and the development of a public awareness campaign aimed at improving school engagement.

The discussion began with a consideration of the impact of absenteeism on students, particularly those in their senior year. Committee members emphasized the need for parental feedback regarding student attendance and the responsibilities that come with parental guidance and supervision. This highlighted the critical role parents play in ensuring their children attend school regularly.

Following this, the committee discussed a proposed public awareness campaign initiated by the Education Oversight Committee (EOC). The campaign aims to foster a sense of belonging among students, particularly when they return to school after absences. One suggested approach is to encourage teachers and staff to acknowledge students' return by expressing that they were missed during their time away. This simple gesture is intended to make students feel valued and seen, which could positively influence their overall school experience.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore these initiatives and their potential impact on student attendance and engagement. The committee plans to continue discussions on how to effectively implement the public awareness campaign and enhance parental involvement in the educational process.