1. Establish a public/private pilot program to recruit and partner industries with schools in rural, impoverished areas in South Carolina
Which challenges does this action plan address?
- Provides access to successful role models for students in areas with low graduation rates and few opportunities
- Makes education more relevant to industries involved
- Allows for easy replication (scaling) across the state
What are some potential action steps to take?
- Visit high poverty schools to identify critical needs and obstacles
- Identify business or community leader to serve as liaison in the pilot area
- Convene forum to introduce concept with business leaders in the pilot area
- Create a central website linking schools in need with the business community to foster partnerships – begin by conducting an inventory of existing websites (i.e., Donors Choose) that could be used as a platform
2. Establish an advocacy campaign to raise awareness of bright spots, challenges and reform needed in South Carolina education
Which challenges does this action plan address?
- Highlights South Carolina’s bright spots in education
- Encourages individuals and businesses to get involved in education by promoting the needs and opportunities
- Clarifies issues such as funding of education across South Carolina
What are some potential action steps to take?
- Consolidate k-12 education information
- Invite businesses to “meet” rural schools through a road trip or virtual tour
- Identify key education champions within businesses to carry the message and be visible supporters
