South Carolina Schools Show Improvement, Yet Challenges Remain

Recent school report cards in South Carolina have revealed significant improvements in the education system, indicating a positive shift in how schools are performing. According to an analysis by The Post and Courier, the number of schools rated as “good” or “excellent” increased from 549 in 2024 to 623 in 2025. Meanwhile, the number of schools classified as “below average” decreased from 186 to 145, and those deemed “unsatisfactory” dropped from 49 to 31. These statistics suggest a notable trend towards improvement, though challenges in the system persist.

Despite the positive strides, the presence of 31 unsatisfactory and 145 below-average schools highlights ongoing issues. Additionally, concerns over chronic absenteeism and the number of high school graduates unprepared for college or the workforce remain significant. These factors indicate that while progress has been made, there is still a long way to go in addressing the educational needs of South Carolina’s students.

The improvements reported are largely based on standardized test scores, which showed significant gains in reading. Plans are also underway to enhance mathematics education. These assessments serve not just as a measure of overall educational success but also as a tool for identifying students who require additional support. The school report cards provide insights into the performance of individual districts and schools, including how effectively they educate various demographic groups, such as third graders, low-income students, and those with disabilities.

This approach is rooted in South Carolina’s Education Accountability Act, which predates the national No Child Left Behind law. The aim of the report cards is to empower state and local leaders to identify deficiencies and implement necessary changes within schools. However, challenges have emerged, particularly as the federal law has undergone significant revisions, leading South Carolina to adjust its standards to align with those of other states.

Addressing the educational shortcomings requires both long-term strategies and immediate interventions. Improvements in early childhood education and more effective reading instruction are essential, but quick fixes are equally important. It is imperative to ensure that no child is left behind. This can involve altering teaching methods for struggling students or enhancing staff training and resources in underperforming schools.

Moreover, the allocation of state resources is crucial in supporting schools that need additional help. More funding and targeted investments must be directed towards those schools that are not meeting educational standards. The Charleston County School District is currently the only district implementing a modified version of this targeted resource allocation concept.

Moving forward, South Carolina must adopt a more proactive stance in supporting its educational institutions. This includes demanding accountability from districts and schools that fail to meet the needs of their students. With the recent decline in failing schools, there is a unique opportunity to make substantial progress in education. It is essential for state leaders to act decisively to ensure that every student has access to a quality education.

The latest report cards serve as both a reflection of progress and a call to action for continued improvement in South Carolina’s education system. Only through sustained effort and commitment can the state hope to provide all students with the opportunities they deserve.