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Friend of Education
"The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." — Dr. Seuss
For years, South Carolina’s public schools have ranked among the lowest in the nation. That’s why I am especially encouraged by the progress being made in Charleston County Schools.
In District 9, our schools are vibrant learning places for our preK-12 grade students. Many have achieved “Excellent” ratings on the state’s School Report Card, while others are making strong strides towards continuous improvement. A visit to any school website serving District 9 families reveals students actively engaged in academics, athletics, fine arts, science and robotics competitions, and clubs that spark their interest, as well as community services. These are schools committed to educating the whole child.
I’m especially proud of the focus on building positive school cultures. Schools are promoting acts of kindness and implementing restorative practices that help students resolve conflicts, strengthen relationships, and create a sense of belonging among peers and teachers.
Our district is also taking important steps to ensure fairness and transparency in funding. Through Weighted Student Funding, resources are distributed more equitably across schools. Every student generates a base level of funding, with additional support for students living in poverty, multilingual learners, students with disabilities, and students who need extra academic support. This approach helps ensure every child has access to the opportunities they need to succeed.
Across our community—from John’s Island to James Island to the Charleston Peninsula—families, educators, and community members are coming together to strengthen our neighborhood schools. I’ve been actively engaged in these conversations, listening and working alongside others to ensure our schools reflect the needs and aspirations of the communities they serve.
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