It was a historic week for Palmetto State students.
Last Thursday, the South Carolina Senate passed a major school choice bill by a vote of 25-15! The Associated Press documented the unprecedented nature of this vote:
“The proposal is the evolution of nearly 20 years of Republicans pushing to put money into providing more education choices for parents. Problems with online or in-person classes during the COVID-19 pandemic gave the legislation more urgency. Sponsors tailored the bill toward poorer families or those with special education needs.”
Senate Education Chairman Greg Hembree – whose leadership was the linchpin that got it done – took time to share this special message of thanks and celebration.
But even as we take time to celebrate, the work isn’t yet finished. It’s now time for the South Carolina House to demonstrate its conservative mettle, take up the Senate’s bill, and “Get it Thru in ’22!”
Important key provisions around common sense accountability and the total number and qualifications of students to be served are still in play and should be addressed in the House. We want to make sure this bill fully protects the freedom and flexibility of independent schools and serves as many families as possible.
Any way you slice it, this Senate victory is one giant leap forward for education freedom in the Palmetto State. Onward to the House!
Ellen Weaver
President & CEO
