In 2024, South Carolina lawmakers made big changes to improve education. They focused on better teacher pay, school programs, and resources for students. Led by Governor Henry McMaster and other leaders, the state budget introduced plans to make education better for all students. These new steps will also help students become strong readers in classrooms without distractions.
Key Investments for Teachers and Students
The 2024-25 South Carolina budget includes money for important changes:
- $200 million to raise starting teacher salaries and give more pay for experienced teachers.
- $30 million for the Education Scholarship Trust Fund to help families pay for education.
- $11.5 million for the Palmetto Math Project to give teachers better materials, tutoring, and professional development.
- $5 million for a program to reward effective teachers, especially in areas with a need for more teachers.
Helping Young Readers with Early Literacy Programs
South Carolina lawmakers also passed a new law to help young readers. They made sure to:
- Ban the old method of teaching reading called “three-cueing,” which was not effective for students.
- Screen students three times a year to check their reading progress.
- Expand summer reading camps for first and second graders to give extra support outside school hours.
- Increase K-3 reading support programs for students who need help learning to read.
- Thanks to this new plan, students will have better tools and support to become strong readers.
- Reducing Distractions with a Phone-Free Policy
To help students focus on their work, South Carolina introduced a phone-free schools policy. This means students won’t be able to use their phones, tablets, or smartwatches during the school day. This will help make sure there are fewer distractions in the classroom, and students can stay focused on their lessons.
Getting Extra Help with Educational Consultant Services Near Me
To make sure schools succeed, South Carolina also offers educational consultant services. Education Consultant Service Near Me is the one of the most demanded in these days because it can help schools by providing academic coaching services and tutoring for young learners. They offer customized literacy plans and help teachers with literacy professional development. After-school tutoring programs and reading intervention strategies are also available to help students who need extra support.
With these important changes and investments, South Carolina is working to make schools better for all students. These steps will help students learn, grow, and become strong readers, while giving teachers the tools they need to succeed.