Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # School Board Leader ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://schoolboardleader.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Updates](https://schoolboardleader.com/updates/) - [Over $225 Million Stolen From Students in Widespread Cases of Fraud](https://schoolboardleader.com/over-225-million-stolen-from-students-in-widespread-cases-of-fraud/) - Over $225 million in fraud has been reported by state education departments and school districts nationwide since 2019, according to The Center Square. You read that right—six years of reports from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of the Inspector General were analyzed by federal spending watchdogs, and their investigation uncovered the widespread theft of finances meant to aid students’ learning. - [Statehouse Insider (June)](https://schoolboardleader.com/statehouse-insider-june/) - North Carolina As lawmakers work to wrap up legislative business for the year, a major milestone was reached with the passage of a new state budget. Here's what parents and school board members should know. Lawmakers Pass a Budget Lawmakers on Thursday approved a $34.4 billion spending plan, sending the budget to Gov. Stein’s desk and marking the end of a year-long stalemate. The general fund - [Op-Ed: When Effort Becomes Optional—Why NC Should End Grade Floors](https://schoolboardleader.com/op-ed-when-effort-becomes-optional-why-nc-should-end-grade-floors/) - The following is an op-ed from Bryce Fiedler, director of CALN. When I first learned about so-called “grade floors,” I struggled to believe it. A friend — who at the time served on a local South Carolina school board — told me that teachers in his district were barred from giving students below a 50% - [Economic Literacy: An Essential Skill for School Board Governance](https://schoolboardleader.com/economic-literacy-an-essential-skill-for-school-board-governance/) - The most important role a school board member has, of course with student achievement interwoven into its purpose, is to responsibly oversee the finances of their district. It is incumbent upon the local board of education, the chief decisionmakers in a school district, to allocate funding and resources to schools in a manner which gives students the greatest opportunity to learn. As such, a budget vote is among the most consequential decisions every school - [Statehouse Insider (May)](https://schoolboardleader.com/statehouse-insider-may/) - South Carolina’s legislative session has officially come to a close, and North Carolina’s short session is fully underway. This month’s Statehouse Insider gives a final look at key bills in the Palmetto State, while covering new developments from Raleigh. South Carolina South Carolina’s regular session ended on Thursday, May 14. Here’s the latest on the proposals CALN has been following this year. Grade floor ban becomes law After advancing through the House in March and passing - [Statehouse Insider (April)](https://schoolboardleader.com/statehouse-insider-april/) - As South Carolina’s legislative sessions nears its close, North Carolina’s short session is just getting underway. This month’s Statehouse Insider gives a status check on key bills in the Palmetto State as lawmakers plan to depart Columbia, while covering early developments from Raleigh. South Carolina South Carolina’s regular session ends Thursday, May 14, leaving just two weeks for the General Assembly to finish most legislative business and move - [Is i-Ready As Effective As Schools Think?](https://schoolboardleader.com/is-i-ready-as-effective-as-schools-think/) - In the wake of COVID-19, the EdTech software “i-Ready” has proliferated as a personalized learning experience for students working to recover from learning loss. i-Ready monitors student progress through interim assessments and provides practice delivered in the form of engaging animations and sounds, however many parents are questioning the software’s effectiveness according to Chalkbeat, a national education reporting - [Press Release: CALN Applauds Passage of First-in-Nation Grade Floor Ban](https://schoolboardleader.com/press-release-caln-applauds-passage-of-first-in-nation-grade-floor-ban/) - Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN) today applauds the S.C. General Assembly for passing H.5073 to prohibit grade floor policies in K-12 public schools, positioning South Carolina as the first state in the nation to take legislative action on this critical issue. The bill, receiving a final House vote Wednesday and now heading to Gov. Henry - [Become a Board Champion](https://schoolboardleader.com/become-a-board-champion/) - Sign up to become a Board Champion! Unlock access to premium tools, resources, and exclusive partnerships to gain an edge in the boardroom with a Board Champions membership. This membership level connects you with a community of reform-minded leaders across the Carolinas and provides enhanced support and direct policy assistance from our team at CALN - [Texas School District Shows Major Benefit of Cellphone Ban](https://schoolboardleader.com/texas-school-district-shows-major-benefit-of-cellphone-ban/) - As more states and school districts pass cellphone pans, new benefits are emerging in unexpected ways. Take Texas, for example ... Last year, it enacted a statewide cellphone ban that went into effect for the 2025-2026 school year. After nearly two full semesters, the Dallas Independent School District (Dallas ISD) has seen a stark, district-wide increase in library book - [Statehouse Insider (March)](https://schoolboardleader.com/statehouse-insider-march/) - We’re now deep into the second half of South Carolina’s legislative session. While two significant bills cleared major hurdles in March, two others that we have covered this year did not see meaningful progress. Plus, the North Carolina Supreme Court handed down a major ruling on a decades-long school funding case. Grading floor ban passed by House A bill to - [CALN hosts its second annual School Board Bootcamp](https://schoolboardleader.com/caln-hosts-its-second-annual-school-board-bootcamp/) - CALN was proud to host its second annual School Board Bootcamp on March 21, delivering high-quality education to board members in a wide range of important areas. Led by specialists in their fields, the day featured six sessions that underscored effective public service: district financial oversight, transparent and ethical decision-making, prioritizing student achievement, and much more. Cindy Coats, a member of the Berkeley County School Board, kicked off the day with a crash course - [A computer on every lap? NC schools rethinking one-to-one device access.](https://schoolboardleader.com/a-computer-on-every-lap-nc-schools-rethinking-one-to-one-device-access/) - The following is an article by Kate Denning, Carolina Public Press. Carolina Public Press is an independent, in-depth and investigative nonprofit news service for North Carolina. You may read it on this publication's website here. Due to exhausted funds and concerns about excessive computer-screen time, some North Carolina public and private schools are considering reversing - [Statehouse Insider (February)](https://schoolboardleader.com/statehouse-insider-february/) - Several positive bills we covered in last month's Statehouse Insider have seen substantive improvements and made further progress. Read below to see how these proposals are shaping up as we near the halfway mark of South Carolina's legislative session. Grading floor ban clears major legislative hurdle Originating as a simple ban on grading floors—a practice CALN was - [A Primer on Parental Rights](https://schoolboardleader.com/a-primer-on-parental-rights/) - The following is a guest feature by Ryan Dellinger, Director of Education Policy at the Palmetto Promise Institute. Few responsibilities entrusted to government are more important than protecting the rights of parents to raise, educate, and safeguard their children. In South Carolina, citizens have long understood that parents—not bureaucracies, courts, or distant federal agencies—are the primary decision-makers - [Op-Ed: Open Enrollment a Win for Parents and Public Schools](https://schoolboardleader.com/op-ed-open-enrollment-a-win-for-parents-and-public-schools/) - The following is an op-ed from Bryce Fiedler, director of CALN. North Carolina’s public education system is at an inflection point. Enrollment continues to fall in most of the state’s traditional public school districts, and further declines are projected. More than half of voters are dissatisfied with their quality of education. And a recent public showdown between legislators and district officials - ["Are Schools Caught in a Digital Delusion?" A Summary of AEI's Conversation with Neuroscientist Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath](https://schoolboardleader.com/are-schools-caught-in-a-digital-delusion-a-summary-of-aeis-conversation-with-neuroscientist-dr-jared-cooney-horvath/) - Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath writes in his new book, The Digital Delusion: How Classroom Technology Harms Our Kids’ Learning—and How to Help Them Thrive Again, that “our children are less cognitively capable than we were at their age.” While this is a bold claim at worst and a daunting sentiment at best, it is backed by research both in the - [South Carolina voters favor academic quality, freedom and transparency in education](https://schoolboardleader.com/south-carolina-voters-favor-academic-quality-freedom-and-transparency-in-education/) - The following is a guest contribution by Sam Aaron, Research Director for the South Carolina Policy Council South Carolina’s education system is showing modest but measurable signs of improvement. Incremental gains at both the local and state levels suggest forward momentum, but an important question remains: how do voters feel about public education overall? To - [Statehouse Insider (SC Session Kickoff)](https://schoolboardleader.com/statehouse-insider-sc-session-kickoff/) - This is the first edition of the Statehouse Insider, a new initiative of Carolinas Academic Leadership Network covering K-12 legislative updates, state budget developments, and timely news. This week’s coverage looks at the first week of South Carolina’s 2026 legislative session. North Carolina news will be included in later updates when its General Assembly convenes in February. SC Department of Education budget requests S.C. Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver presented - [Statehouse Insider (January)](https://schoolboardleader.com/statehouse-insider-january/) - Weeks two and three of South Carolina’s legislative session saw lively debate over proposals both new and familiar. This second edition of the Statehouse Insider highlights three bills that made progress that board members and parents should know about. Changes to school board training, ethics policy One of the most significant bills taken up this - [Op-Ed: School Boards: the Front Lines of Education Reform](https://schoolboardleader.com/op-ed-school-boards-the-front-lines-of-education-reform/) - The following is an op-ed from Bryce Fiedler, director of CALN. A collective effort is underway in South Carolina to raise the bar for public education. It spans every level of our system, from the governor’s office to the S.C. Department of Education to our local school boards, all the way to classrooms where teachers drive - [CALN's 2025 Year In Review](https://schoolboardleader.com/calns-2025-year-in-review/) - Revisit Carolinas Academic Leadership Network's highlights of 2025. In its biggest year yet, CALN launched a host of new initiatives to empower school board members and raise the bar for education, including our School Board Bootcamps, the Board Champions Membership program, and a six-part podcast series featuring pioneers in the K-12 reform movement. - [NC School District Called Before House Committee over Inappropriate Books, Parental Rights Law](https://schoolboardleader.com/nc-school-district-called-before-house-committee-over-inappropriate-books-parental-rights-law/) - The General Assembly's House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform held a hearing Wednesday to question the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School District (CHCCS) over its alleged noncompliance with the Parents’ Bill of Rights (SB49). In a series of social media posts earlier this month, NC Rep. Brenden Jones flagged his concern over inappropriate books made available to students in the CHCCS system. Rep. Jones and fellow House - [Defending the Science of Learning](https://schoolboardleader.com/defending-the-science-of-learning/) - Educators and curriculum writers have been researching the best methods of teaching kids, weighing the merits of structures ranging from Common Core to the science of learning. Common Core was designed as a set of national education standards that students should meet at each grade level, granting the federal government more control over curriculum - [AI's Siren Sound: The Decline of Human Cognition?](https://schoolboardleader.com/ais-siren-sound-the-decline-of-human-cognition/) - You’ve heard the argument that every new technology poses its own existential threat. The calculator diluted our ability to do mental math; our cellphones made us less sociable; study aids like Chegg and SparkNotes made us, ironically, study less. And just as everyone was worried that computers and the internet would be the downfall of mankind, some believe that AI poses the same kind of threat, - [Op-Ed: NC Wants the Best Schools in the Nation. Is Its Plan Up to the Task?](https://schoolboardleader.com/op-ed-nc-wants-the-best-schools-in-the-nation-is-its-plan-up-to-the-task/) - The following is an op-ed from Bryce Fiedler, director of CALN. If you were tasked with making North Carolina public schools the best in the nation, it might be tempting to throw everything but the kitchen sink into your plan. But what begins as a clear mission soon becomes a sprawling, unwieldy project that gets - [Students Should Be Reading Full Books For School](https://schoolboardleader.com/students-should-be-reading-full-books-for-school/) - You may have seen our previous articles about reading comprehension and the science of reading, but as I see more testimonies explaining how schools are teaching these skills, it has become clear to me that a good reading curriculum is determined by what is taught, as much as how it’s taught. According to Daniel Buck, - [Something Has to Give: Teacher Training Programs Need a Revamp](https://schoolboardleader.com/something-has-to-give-teacher-training-programs-need-a-revamp/) - For the past several decades, teacher trainees have been learning social justice theories in the place of curriculum building and classroom management. This is problematic because what students learn is a direct result of what future teachers are being taught themselves. Everyone knows that education is the way into the minds of children, who will - [Press Release: CALN Announces Formation of School Board Advisory Committees](https://schoolboardleader.com/press-release-caln-announces-formation-of-school-board-advisory-committees/) - Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN) is proud to announce the formation of School Board Advisory Committees, comprised of six highly motivated and effective school board members from North Carolina and South Carolina. The committees, assembled by CALN director Bryce Fiedler, bring a collective wealth of educational expertise and a steadfast commitment to advancing academic excellence. - [From FF to No F: NC’s New Attendance Grading Policy ](https://schoolboardleader.com/from-ff-to-no-f-ncs-new-attendance-grading-policy/) - Until recently in North Carolina, most students needed to attend a mandated number of school days, as well as pass the content of their courses, to pass a class. Now, NC high schools can no longer fail students for missing too many classes. You read that correctly—as of the 2025-2026 school year, high school students - [Lights, Camera, Accountability: SC School Boards Go Live With New Streaming Policy Passed by State Board](https://schoolboardleader.com/lights-camera-accountability-sc-school-boards-go-live-with-new-streaming-policy-passed-by-state-board/) - The following is a guest contribution by Felicity Ropp, Policy Analyst at the Palmetto Promise Institute South Carolina is one step closer to citizens in every school district having easy, online access to the meetings of their local school boards. During its August 5, 2025, meeting, the South Carolina State Board of Education passed new model - [South Carolina voter poll highlights need for educational reforms](https://schoolboardleader.com/south-carolina-voter-poll-highlights-need-for-educational-reforms/) - The following is a guest contribution by Sam Aaron, Research Director at the South Carolina Policy Council. A new poll released by the South Carolina Policy Council, conducted July 15–21, surveyed 1,200 registered voters on a range of issues across the state. This article specifically looks at voters’ responses to key K-12 education questions and - [Carolinas at Risk: A Critical Review of Student Outcomes in North and South Carolina](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas-at-risk-a-critical-review-of-student-outcomes-in-north-and-south-carolina/) - More than 40 years ago, the U.S. published a defining study on American public education entitled A Nation at Risk. A product of the Reagan administration, the report revealed a declining education system and a nation in danger of losing its place on the world stage. It issued what now reads as a prophetic warning: - [Op-Ed: It’s Time to Power Down the Chromebook Experiment](https://schoolboardleader.com/op-ed-its-time-to-power-down-the-chromebook-experiment/) - The following is an op-ed from Bryce Fiedler, director of CALN. North Carolina’s largest public school district made headlines this spring after reaching an obvious but necessary conclusion: Supplying every kid with a Chromebook is not sustainable. During the pandemic, the Wake County Public School System (WCPSS), like many others, started to provide all students - [Op-Ed: Tackling the Cellphone Issue in NC Schools](https://schoolboardleader.com/op-ed-tackling-the-cellphone-issue-in-nc-schools/) - In today’s digital age, cellphones are often the primary cause of classroom distractions. The issue has become overwhelming for many educators, and parents now more than ever are speaking out. Of course, it’s not just academics that are at stake. The abundance of smartphones in schools can amplify bullying, undermine social development, and heighten students’ - [Lowcountry School Board Votes to Exit the SC School Boards Association  ](https://schoolboardleader.com/lowcountry-school-board-votes-to-exit-the-sc-school-boards-association/) - This month, the governing board of South Carolina’s fourth-largest school district voted to terminate its membership with the S.C. School Boards Association (SCSBA). The decision came via an 8-1 vote by the Berkeley County School Board on July 7, immediately taking effect. A key point of discussion at the Monday night board meeting was - [Comprehensive Cellphone, Social Media Literacy Law Signed by Gov. Stein](https://schoolboardleader.com/comprehensive-cellphone-social-media-literacy-bill-signed-by-gov-stein/) - Last week, Governor Josh Stein signed HB 959, Various Education Changes, which will prohibit North Carolina students from using their cell phones during class time. The new law also promotes internet safety and requires social media literacy instruction in schools. Overall, HB 959 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to tackle growing concerns - [Budget Breakdown: What's New for K-12 in South Carolina](https://schoolboardleader.com/education-changes-in-scs-new-budget/) - South Carolina’s new state budget (FY2025-26) has been finalized, and with it come changes to K-12 funding and policy. We’ve compiled a list of noteworthy items that school board members should know about. Before we dive in, let's give a quick overview of how the budget is structured (and why it matters). The annual - [Does Every Kid Need a Chromebook?](https://schoolboardleader.com/should-school-issued-computers-be-the-norm/) - Today, the post-COVID learning environment is much different from the atmosphere many of us remember from our time in school. This is especially true in districts where universal Chromebook and iPad policies have become the norm. But should this be the norm? It's a question parents and school board members are increasingly asking. From - [NC Moving to Dismantle DEI](https://schoolboardleader.com/nc-moving-to-dismantle-dei/) - North Carolina is one step closer to dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in state agencies and public education. Recently, the NC House passed a bill prohibiting agencies and local school districts from using state funds to support and maintain these programs, among other changes. “For too long, DEI programs have replaced qualifications with - [South Carolina Legislative Update - Post Session](https://schoolboardleader.com/south-carolina-legislative-update-post-session/) - South Carolina’s regular legislative session has concluded. Lawmakers passed several significant bills affecting K–12 education, while others will be in play upon their return next year. Here are a few items school board members should know about. Mandatory livestreaming of school board meetings will soon be law, pending Gov. McMaster’s signature. At the final hour, - [State Responses to Trump Admin’s DEI Directives ](https://schoolboardleader.com/state-responses-to-trump-admins-dei-directives/) - Across the nation, state responses to the Trump administration's education directives have varied. Some states, like New York, have declined to comply or have challenged the current administration’s requirements to eliminate illegal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. Others have readily followed such federal policies up to this point. On April 3, the US Department - [Has the "New Math" Improved Students' Math Performance?](https://schoolboardleader.com/has-the-new-math-improved-students-math-performance/) - When you research Common Core, or the 'new math,' it’s hard to find sources that don’t echo the sentiment that the new teaching method is better. Many of its proponents will argue that it's superior because it’s more standardized and emphasizes showing work to foster deeper understanding. But is this actually reflected in students’ performance? - [How Social Media Hinders Students' Ability to Learn](https://schoolboardleader.com/social-media-hinders-students-ability-to-learn/) - The movement looking to limit cell phone use in schools has been making great headway, as state legislatures from South Carolina to California have been passing or proposing bills that call for restrictions. This is fantastic, but there’s an element to this discussion that is not spoken about enough. Of course, the focus is on creating - [Let's Discuss the Department of Education](https://schoolboardleader.com/lets-discuss-the-department-of-education/) - In light of major changes emanating from Washington, let’s discuss the U.S. Department of Education (DOE), its origins, and what the future holds as decision-makers push for more state-level control over education. The “Department of Education” has had a long history, over the course of which it has undergone several changes in size, status, and - [What the 2024 NAEP Scores Mean For Student Achievement](https://schoolboardleader.com/what-the-2024-naep-scores-mean-for-student-achievement/) - In his striking reflection on the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores, titled “Many Children Left Behind,” AEI senior fellow Mark Schneider sounds the alarm on the perpetuation of students’ low performance in schools (especially post-COVID). The truth is, despite having seen the clear trends present in the past several years (which I - [The Latest on Teacher Pay](https://schoolboardleader.com/the-latest-on-teacher-pay/) - When you think about compensating individuals for their labor, it feels intuitive to pay higher wages for difficult and important jobs. And when you think about those who have the responsibility of teaching America’s children, you might consider their job to fall under those categories. But the truth is, teachers often earn wages that are - [Office for Civil Rights' "Dear Colleague" Letter](https://schoolboardleader.com/office-of-civil-rights-dear-colleague-letter/) - Editors note 2/24/25: The penultimate paragraph has been slightly revised to more accurately reflect the letter's intent regarding DEI policies and the termination of policies that discriminate on the basis of race. The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) released a letter on Valentine's Day requiring that all education institutions ensure their compliance with existing civil - [Bills to Look Out For This Year: Carolinas Edition ](https://schoolboardleader.com/bills-to-look-out-for-this-year-carolinas-edition/) - Both North and South Carolina’s 2025 legislative sessions are in full swing, and it looks like we could see notable developments in education over the coming months. This year, South Carolina’s regular legislative session runs from January 14 through May 8, though legislative business could and often does extend beyond this point. North Carolina’s long - [Grade floor policies undermine achievement, hold back student potential ](https://schoolboardleader.com/grade-floor-policies-undermine-achievement-hold-back-student-potential/) - Less than six months after successfully repealing its grading floor policy, the Sumter County School Board is now considering resurrecting the initiative, according to the Sumter Item. The rule had barred teachers in the district from assigning students a grade of less than 50% for the quarter (except for the last quarter). The school board’s - [CALN celebrates its inagural School Board Bootcamps](https://schoolboardleader.com/caln-celebrates-its-inagural-school-board-bootcamps/) - Unlike the U.S. president or members of Congress, who are sworn in months after Election Day, newly elected school board members often assume their seats within a couple of weeks of winning at the ballot box. In other words, the hard work of education governance starts almost immediately for new trustees. That’s why, this year, CALN - [Studies Show Detrimental Trends of Moving to Computer-Based Learning](https://schoolboardleader.com/studies-show-detrimental-trends-of-moving-to-computer-based-learning/) - As technology continues to advance, schools nationwide are quickly abandoning the tried-and-true paper system in favor of implementing more innovative methods of learning. Textbooks and binders of loose-leaf paper are being traded for iPads and computers, pens for styluses and blue books for online testing. Innovation is often associated with advancing the status quo, but - [Teaching With Intention: Tips for Teachers](https://schoolboardleader.com/teaching-with-intention-tips-for-teachers/) - Children spend about seven hours a day at school, five days a week, during the most formative years of their lives. In addition to math, reading, history, and science, the classroom should then be a place to learn how to be good members of society. There are a few basic virtues that students can and - [There’s Room for Improvement: The Carolinas Can Stand to Bolster Nutrition in Schools ](https://schoolboardleader.com/theres-room-for-improvement-how-the-carolinas-can-bolster-nutrition-in-schools/) - Since the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act (HHFKA) of 2010, there has been a national shift in the caliber of food provided to children in schools. The impacts of the Act have been substantial, as effective programs have been created and modified, and state-level laws passed since have mandated that foods provided meet certain nutritional standards. - [Moving Forward By Fostering Discourse in the Classroom](https://schoolboardleader.com/moving-forward-by-fostering-discourse-in-the-classroom/) - In the spirit of resolutions and transition, the New Year is a great opportunity to inspire positivity, change, and improvement. As such, now is the perfect time to begin mending the divide we’ve been watching grow these past few decades. During the 2024 Lambeth Lecture, John Hood-–president of the John William Pope Foundation and board - [Enforcement of South Carolina’s cellphone ban starts in January ](https://schoolboardleader.com/south-carolinas-cellphone-ban-starts-in-january/) - South Carolina school districts will begin enforcing the state's new cellphone ban in public schools starting in January. The change effectively turns K-12 schools into phone-free zones for students during the instructional day, with certain exceptions. It also applies to other “personal electronic devices,” such as tablets, smart watches, and gaming devices. Lawmakers included - [Key Resources for Improvement-Oriented School Board Members](https://schoolboardleader.com/key-resources-for-improvement-oriented-school-board-members/) - There is a swath of resources out there with information on how to teach reading, math, history, and other subjects; increase student proficiency; effectively carry out one’s duties as a school board member; build a curriculum; draft a budget; and more. But just because they’re out there, doesn’t mean school board members and educators know - [Study: How the brain learns to read, and why](https://schoolboardleader.com/study-how-the-brain-learns-to-read-and-why/) - It’s no secret that reading is the foundational skill behind children’s ability to learn and process information, both in the classroom and the real world. That’s why seeing the “science of reading” gain traction among education policymakers is such welcome news. An evolving body of cognitive research, the science of reading looks at how - [Fast Facts: North Carolina School Board Elections](https://schoolboardleader.com/fast-facts-north-carolina-school-board-elections/) - Attention North Carolinians! Early Voting has officially begun! Out of 115 school districts in North Carolina, 87 have an election this November, with a total of 292 seats up for grabs. In anticipation of Election Day, here are some key facts you need to know before you hit the polls: Each district runs their school - [Fast facts: SC school board elections](https://schoolboardleader.com/fast-facts-sc-school-board-elections/) - If you live in South Carolina, there’s a strong chance that local school board elections are taking place in your county this November. With Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) just around the corner, and statewide early voting starting on Oct. 21, here are some key facts to know. In SC, most school board elections - [Where to find libraries, internet access in counties affected by Hurricane Helene](https://schoolboardleader.com/where-to-find-libraries-internet-access-in-counties-affected-by-hurricane-helene/) - As the Carolinas recover from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, we know that many friends, neighbors, and loved ones are still without power and internet access, or even more critical needs such as clean water. Additionally, several Upstate SC counties have extended school closures through the mid-week, while many counties in Western NC have announced - [Embracing Constitution Week](https://schoolboardleader.com/embracing-constitution-week/) - Picture Credits: @Britney4Real on X From Harnett to Horry County, school districts across the Carolinas are celebrating “Constitution Week” in honor of our nation’s founding document. While most other weeks are characterized by division and disagreement, this week serves as a reminder of our shared American values. At Coates-Erwin Middle School in Harnett County, history - [CALN Welcomes Two Distinguished Education Leaders to its Board of Directors](https://schoolboardleader.com/caln-welcomes-two-distinguished-education-leaders-to-its-board-of-directors/) - Carolinas Academic Leadership Network Welcomes Eloise Robinson and Pamela McKinney to its Board of Directors Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN) is proud to announce the election of two distinguished education leaders to its Board of Directors, Eloise Robinson of North Carolina and Pamela McKinney of South Carolina. Both lifelong educators, Robinson previously taught in elementary schools in Georgia and North Carolina and was an instructor for - [CALN co-hosts panel at M4L summit about working with your school board ](https://schoolboardleader.com/caln-co-hosts-panel-at-m4l-summit-about-working-with-your-school-board/) - In today’s education landscape, active engagement from parents and community members with their school board is more crucial than ever. In this arena, having the right strategy can make all the difference between success and failure. Recently, I had the honor of co-hosting a panel at the Moms for Liberty 2024 Joyful Warriors Summit in Washington D.C., - [Empower K-12 students and staff to know their First Amendment Rights](https://schoolboardleader.com/empower-k-12-students-and-staff-to-know-their-first-amendment-rights/) - These days, when one hears freedom of religion, they often conflate the concept with “freedom from religion.” This is not unique to the United States. In fact, France is a prime example of what can happen with the radical secularization (laïcité) of culture and society. Article I of the French Constitution reads, “France shall be an indivisible, secular, democratic - [Concerns raised about new guidance for S.C. school districts](https://schoolboardleader.com/concerns-raised-about-new-guidance-for-s-c-school-districts/) - Recently, a set of policy guidance for local school districts issued by the South Carolina School Board Association (SCSBA) has been circulating online and drawing attention from concerned parents, school board trustees, and state leaders. As some of this guidance pertains to students’ privacy and safety and deals with issues covered by state law or - [The Great Recalibration of AP Exams](https://schoolboardleader.com/the-great-recalibration-of-ap-exams/) - This year, about 500,000 more students across the nation are projected to score a 3 or higher on their AP exams. At first glance, this sounds like fantastic news. But, not everything is as it seems. Let’s dig a bit deeper: According to Macro Learning, the advanced high school program, which offers college credit upon - [Carolinas United for Academic Excellence](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas-united-for-academic-excellence/) - It’s been over 300 years since the colony of Carolina was officially divided, establishing distinct North and South Carolina colonies. Today, as separate states, the two share plenty of differences across politics, government, and culture. But when it comes to education, both have something deeply important in common: the need to improve student achievement and - [Aaron Beaulieu Talks School District Budgeting Strategy](https://schoolboardleader.com/aaron-beaulieu-talks-school-district-budgeting-strategy/) - Last week, CALN brought in Aaron Beaulieu of School Operations Specialists to discuss the art of budgeting for school districts. School Operations Specialists (SOS) is a team of consultants which “strongly believes that the best solutions are driven by best practices taken from successful school districts. [They] understand the demands placed on district leaders - [The Bible in public school? Is that legal?](https://schoolboardleader.com/the-bible-in-public-school-is-that-legal/) - In recent weeks, a number of articles have appeared in national media outlets with screaming headlines about how public-school kids are being taught evangelical Christianity. In breathless tones, reporters describe how Christian ministries are buying up land adjacent to public school campuses, building ministry centers on the property, and bussing kids to them for Bible lessons. The Bible lessons, they have discovered, are nothing short of preaching. - [Carolinas Academic Leadership Network Welcomes Bryce Fiedler as Founding Director](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas-academic-leadership-network-welcomes-bryce-fiedler-as-founding-director/) - Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN) proudly announces the appointment of Bryce Fiedler as its first Director. Fiedler, formerly a Senior Policy Analyst with the South Carolina Policy Council, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to educational excellence and parental empowerment. CALN, a collaborative initiative between the John Locke Foundation (Locke) in North Carolina and - [S.C. officials give timeframe on state's new cellphone ban in schools](https://schoolboardleader.com/s-c-officials-give-timeframe-on-states-new-cellphone-ban-in-schools/) - If you attended CALN's training event in Columbia, have visited our website recently, or kept up with South Carolina news, you will know that S.C. public school districts will need to adopt a policy banning students from accessing cellphones and other personal electronics while at school. This rule, part of the new state budget that - [School Board Members! Don't Miss This FREE Training!](https://schoolboardleader.com/school-board-members-dont-miss-this-free-training/) - On Thursday, July 18 from Noon to 1:30, CALN is hosting a Budget Training for school board members. We will be bringing in Aaron Beaulieu to discuss how your districts spend taxpayer money and train you in the art of budgeting. RSVP TODAY! Are you bored over budgets? Confused about what to look for or how to spend? You’ll be able - [CALN Parent Group Named Finalist For SPN Communications Excellence Award](https://schoolboardleader.com/caln-parent-group-named-finalist-for-spn-communications-excellence-award/) - We are thrilled to offer a HUGE Congratulations to our parent group and close friends, the Palmetto Promise Institute (PPI)! Out of 63 applicants, they have been selected as one of three finalists for the State Policy Network’s (SPN) national Communications Excellence: Expanding Your Audience Award! PPI is being recognized on a national scale for - [Does time of day affect student testing performance?](https://schoolboardleader.com/does-time-of-day-affect-student-testing-performance/) - Have you ever taken a late lunch, and after getting back to the office, you feel like your energy and focus levels have taken a hit? The so-called “afternoon slump” is why many of us like to schedule important tasks or meetings in the morning. But this phenomenon isn’t unique to adults, suggests a new - [CALN Hosts Successful South Carolina School Board Primer](https://schoolboardleader.com/caln-hosts-successful-south-carolina-school-board-primer/) - The Carolinas Academic Leadership Network hosted their South Carolina Candidate and Community Primer last Saturday at the South Carolina Public Charter School District Building in Columbia. With dozens in attendance, the expert speakers CALN brought in delivered their presentations to a packed (to the brim) house, with even more attending via Zoom. One thing is - [A highlight of education changes in S.C.’s pending budget](https://schoolboardleader.com/a-highlight-of-education-changes-in-s-c-s-pending-budget/) - This past weekend, I had the pleasure of speaking with dozens of school board leaders at CALN’s Candidate and Community Primer in Columbia about the education-related changes in South Carolina’s upcoming budget. With the S.C. General Assembly planning to meet Wednesday for an expected vote on the budget, I wanted to take the opportunity to - [S.C. session recap: Education bills that did (and didn’t) pass ](https://schoolboardleader.com/s-c-session-recap-education-bills-that-did-and-didnt-pass/) - I am not the first to point out that the theme of this year’s legislative session in South Carolina might have more to do with the bills that didn’t pass than those that did, and this is particularly true for bills affecting education. Indeed, at least five substantial education bills, all of which passed - [Graduations on the rise in DJJ school district  ](https://schoolboardleader.com/graduations-on-the-rise-in-djj-school-district/) - While the high school dropout rate in regular South Carolina schools has seen only a small decline over the last decade, inching down from 2.6% in 2012-13 to 2.4% in 2021-22, a new data point shows promise for an education system that is often overlooked. According to a new report from the SC Daily Gazette, the number - [National Association of Scholars Announces Their Franklin Model K-12 Science Standards](https://schoolboardleader.com/national-association-of-scholars-announces-their-franklin-model-k-12-science-standards/) - National Association of Scholars | State standards are the single most influential documents in America’s education system. State education departments use them to provide guidance to each public K-12 school district and charter school as they create their own courses. Yet too many state education departments have imposed state science standards drawing on sources such - [Strategies for helping students improve their math memorization](https://schoolboardleader.com/strategies-for-helping-students-improve-their-math-memorization/) - Even after decades of research, the debate over how best to teach students math memorization (meaning the ability to recall answers to simple math problems) continues. However, a recent article from Education Week (EdWeek) offers some fundamental guidelines. The K-12 news site reviewed a host of studies and spoke with educators and researchers for its - [Teacher finds success using non-fiction magazines to promote reading](https://schoolboardleader.com/teacher-finds-success-using-non-fiction-magazines-to-promote-reading/) - An elementary school teacher in South Carolina’s Lowcountry is using non-fiction magazines to promote the joys of reading and teach her students real-world concepts. Mrs. Amy Wagner, a fifth-grade teacher in Berkeley County, was recently highlighted by WCSC (Live5News) for her success in the classroom. “When we were kids, you know, you could do a - [More states pursuing laws to curb phone use in schools](https://schoolboardleader.com/more-states-pursuing-laws-to-curb-phone-use-in-schools/) - Of the many issues facing students in the digital age, few are more pressing for education leaders than the proliferation of cell phones in schools and their impact on learning. Most schools now have policies against using phones for non-academic purposes, as do a growing number of districts. These policies vary, of course, and - [CALN Awarded Heritage Foundation's Innovation Prize](https://schoolboardleader.com/caln-awarded-heritage-foundations-innovation-prize/) - Student-focused school board members, candidates looking to bring change, and advocates for improvement to K-12 education put in the hard work. They live by the dedicated mission to serve students, families, and their communities by selflessly prioritizing student achievement. In this climate, you changemakers asked for a resource that could provide trainings, networking opportunities, professional - [First Amendment Cases School Board Members Should Know](https://schoolboardleader.com/first-amendment-cases-school-board-members-should-know/) - In order to effectively prioritize student achievement, school board members should know the landmark Supreme Court decisions that shape how they set school district policies and resolve conflicts. The American Enterprise Institute, partnered with AEI’s Conservative Education Reform Network and the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty, released a report this month, titled Schools and - [KSBRC Title IX Webinar Event Recording](https://schoolboardleader.com/ksbrc-title-ix-webinar-event-recording/) - Last Thursday, the Kansas School Board Resource Center hosted a webinar titled, Preparing for the Impact: New Title IX Regulation in Public Schools. They brought in Max Eden of AEI and Jonathan Vogel of Vogel Law Firm to discuss the impact that the new Title IX guidance will have on a national level for public - [Ahead of the curve: Georgia program offers apprenticeships for sophomores ](https://schoolboardleader.com/ahead-of-the-curve-georgia-program-offers-apprenticeships-for-sophomores/) - Not far from Atlanta, an apprentice program for high school students is garnering attention for its proactive approach to career readiness. The Georgia Consortium for Advanced Technical Training (GA CATT), as it's known, is open to students beginning in their sophomore year, making it one of the earliest starting apprenticeships for pupils in the U.S., - [CALN To Host Most Comprehensive School Board Trainings of the Year](https://schoolboardleader.com/caln-to-host-most-comprehensive-school-board-trainings-of-the-year/) - *Calling all school board members, candidates, and concerned Carolinians!* Do you care about the state of education in your school district? Are you concerned for the students who are being brought up in A Nation At Risk? Whether you are a seasoned school board member, a new-to-advocacy community member, or anything in between, we at - [Highlighting Female Collegiate Athletes Who Made History Since the Passage of Title IX](https://schoolboardleader.com/highlighting-female-collegiate-athletes-who-made-history-since-the-passage-of-title-ix/) - President Biden recently made changes to Title IX, the pivotal law enacted by Nixon in 1972, which protected women from discrimination and provided recourse for sexual assault victims in higher education. Title IX has helped women pave their way through sports history for decades. One can argue that these changes made are an insult to - [Livestreaming bill for school board meetings moves closer to passage](https://schoolboardleader.com/livestreaming-bill-for-school-board-meetings-moves-closer-to-passage/) - After falling short in 2022, a proposal to require local South Carolina school boards to livestream their meetings is in a likely position to pass this year. The bill (S.134) instructs all school boards, including those of charter and special schools, to make “reasonable and necessary efforts” to broadcast the entirety of their regular and - [South Carolina names 2025 Teacher of the Year](https://schoolboardleader.com/south-carolina-names-2025-teacher-of-the-year/) - This month, South Carolina gave its highest teaching award to an Upstate educator with an “infectious passion for making history come alive.” Braden Wilson, an 8th grade social studies teacher at Palmetto Middle School, received South Carolina’s 2025 Teacher of the Year honor at a ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion on Thursday, April 25. - [Ten School Calendar Bills Eligible For Discussion in NCGA Short Session](https://schoolboardleader.com/ten-school-calendar-bills-eligible-for-discussion-in-ncga-short-session/) - There are 10 school calendar bills eligible for discussion during the North Carolina Legislature’s 2024 short session. Five of those bills are statewide, and five are for LEAs scattered throughout the state. Each statewide bill provides flexibility to all or certain school systems in adopting the school calendar. H86 will provide this flexibility to all - [Student Suspended from a Lexington High School for Using Term 'Illegal Alien'](https://schoolboardleader.com/student-suspended-from-a-lexington-high-school-for-using-term-illegal-alien/) - A student at Central Davidson High School in Lexington, NC, was suspended last week for using the term ‘illegal alien.’ During a vocabulary assignment in his English class, 16-year-old Christian McGhee asked for clarification on the definition of the word ‘alien.’ When the word popped up on the vocabulary list, he asked his teacher, - ['Age-appropriate' book proposal likely on hold until 2025](https://schoolboardleader.com/age-appropriate-book-proposal-likely-on-hold-until-2025/) - A proposal to create uniform definitions for age-appropriate content when it comes to books in South Carolina schools is seemingly on hold for the year. Announced last year and adopted by the State Board of Education in February, the pending rule would require books in K-12 classrooms and libraries to be “age and developmentally appropriate” - [S.C. Ed. Department plan would clarify 'age-appropriate' book question](https://schoolboardleader.com/s-c-ed-department-plan-would-clarify-age-appropriate-book-question/) - The S.C. Department of Education has announced a new plan to ensure that books in South Carolina schools are age-appropriate and suitable for students. The proposal, which can be viewed here, would create uniform definitions for K-12 content that is “age and developmentally appropriate” and “educationally suitable and aligned with [the state’s] instructional program,” and - [Proposal would let S.C. private school students try out for public school sports](https://schoolboardleader.com/proposal-would-let-s-c-private-school-students-try-out-for-public-school-sports/) - Should students from private schools be allowed to join the sports teams of neighboring public schools if their own schools don’t offer those sports? That question is at the center of a legislative proposal in South Carolina, which a panel of state senators discussed in late March and received broad support. Under S.161, private school students - [Education Politics: A History](https://schoolboardleader.com/education-politics-a-history/) - For many decades, the topic of education was one which could be discussed at the kitchen table. In fact, education was a key policy issue that politicians used to entice moderate voters. Republicans showed how they cared about personal responsibility while Democrats showed that they were in favor of equal opportunity. This was the case - [South Carolina revamps landmark Read to Succeed law ](https://schoolboardleader.com/south-carolina-revamps-landmark-read-to-succeed-law/) - In a move to bolster students’ reading ability and better identify those who might be falling behind, S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster signed a law earlier this month strengthening the state’s Read to Succeed law. BACKGROUND To understand the changes at play, let’s first look to the original policy. A primary goal behind Read to - [Students@Work℠ Month Grants NC Students Exposure to Local Career Paths](https://schoolboardleader.com/studentswork℠-month-grants-nc-students-exposure-to-local-career-paths/) - Unbeknownst to many, there is a little bit more to March than March Madness and Women's History Month. To further North Carolina’s career readiness initiative, Gov. Cooper declared March Students@Work℠ Month. This effort expects to reach about 25,000 students throughout the state to teach them about jobs and industries in their communities. Students@Work℠ is a - [Applications open for Lowcountry student leadership program](https://schoolboardleader.com/applications-open-for-lowcountry-student-leadership-program/) - A leadership program in South Carolina’s Lowcountry gives high school students a chance to speak about issues facing the community. The year-long opportunity, known as the City of Charleston Mayor’s Youth Commission, aims to create a healthy dialogue between young people and local officials. According to WCSC (Live5News), students on the commission will meet - [Did the SAT just get easier?](https://schoolboardleader.com/did-the-sat-just-get-easier/) - The SAT is ditching pencil and paper. That’s right, in a move that took effect Saturday, March 9, the nation’s premier college admissions exam is now offered to students entirely on computers and tablets. The College Board, which owns the SAT and created other programs such as Advanced Placement (AP) courses, first announced the change - [NC DPI Rolls Out Short Session Plan to Improve Math, Literacy, School Support](https://schoolboardleader.com/nc-dpi-rolls-out-short-session-plan-to-improve-math-literacy-school-support/) - With the legislative short session’s April 24 start date just around the corner, the NC Department of Public Instruction has presented their priorities for the coming year. The three main tenants of DPI’s priorities are to reform math, improve literacy in later grades, and support low-performing schools. The plan is to provide professional development for - [Michele Morrow Defeats Incumbent Catherine Truitt in Republican NC State Supt. Primary](https://schoolboardleader.com/michele-morrow-defeats-incumbent-catherine-truitt-in-republican-nc-state-supt-primary/) - In a surprising upset last night, Michele Morrow defeated incumbent Catherine Truitt in the Republican primary race for North Carolina State Superintendent of public instruction. She maintained a four-to-six-point lead throughout the night, the race concluding after 1:00 this morning. She won with a lead of over four percentage points. The final outcome was 52.1% for - [New tool helps education leaders visualize student achievement gaps](https://schoolboardleader.com/new-tool-helps-education-leaders-visualize-student-achievement-gaps/) - It’s no secret that learning took a major hit after schools shut down during COVID-19 (and that many stayed closed, at least partially, well after the pandemic reached its peak). In fact, it’s arguably the most well-documented trend in modern education. But the implications are more nuanced, more complex, than a simple across-the-board achievement declines. - [Students Nationwide Discontent With Their Education](https://schoolboardleader.com/students-nationwide-discontent-with-their-education/) - There is, and has been for some time, a clear decline in zeal for education. All while university enrollment steadily decreases and companies are in desperate need of capable employees, traditional K-12 schools are producing graduates who are not prepared for the working world. Forbes recently reported that only 13 percent of K-12 students nationwide give - [Article Spotlight: CALN success featured in Carolina Journal](https://schoolboardleader.com/article-spotlight-caln-success-featured-in-carolina-journal/) - On Monday, Carolina Journal reported on the success of CALN’s Carolina Liberty Conference breakout session event in January. Their article, titled “Public school leaders embrace competition in age of school choice,” also detailed CALN’s debut as an affiliate with School Boards for Academic Excellence. *** One of our own was interviewed at CLC by Carolina - [Hands-on learning: Blue Collar Tour visits students in Charleston ](https://schoolboardleader.com/hands-on-learning-blue-collar-tour-visits-students-in-charleston/) - Charleston students recently got to learn about and get hands-on experience with different trade skills as part of a blue-collar jobs campaign for high schoolers. The Blue Collar Tour—which is visiting 30 schools across the U.S. this semester—selected the Charleston County School District (CCSD) for a mid-February stop, according to WCSC (Live5News), much to - [Elite 1% Out of Touch With Voters Who Want To Choose Their Child's Education](https://schoolboardleader.com/elite-1-out-of-touch-with-voters-who-want-to-choose-their-childs-education/) - A study published by the Committee to Unleash Prosperity, titled Them vs. U.S.: The Two Americas and How the Nation’s Elite Is Out of Touch with Average Americans, has revealed that an overwhelming majority of the Elite 1% and Ivy Leage graduates would prefer to vote for a candidate who says that teachers or “other - [NC Opportunity Scholarship Expansion Threatens Wake County School District Growth](https://schoolboardleader.com/nc-opportunity-scholarship-expansion-threatens-wake-county-school-district-growth/) - Since the North Carolina State Budget’s expansion of the Opportunity Scholarship Program (OSP), interested families have been applying for private school vouchers in droves. In the first two weeks since the application opened on February 1, 47,917 applications have been submitted, and this number is set to continuously grow until the March 1 deadline. Mike - [Nearly one in four S.C. students chronically absent last year  ](https://schoolboardleader.com/nearly-one-in-four-s-c-students-chronically-absent-last-year/) - Last month, CALN shed light on one state’s battle with chronic absenteeism—defined by a student missing 10% or more days during the school year. While our report highlighted Indiana as somewhat of an extreme case, where some districts reported chronic absence rates exceeding 60%, this is far from an isolated issue. On Feb. 12, new - [Huge News for California Students: 'Woke Kindergarten' Update!](https://schoolboardleader.com/huge-news-for-california-students-woke-kindergarten-update/) - HUGE News on the public education front! Last week, CALN reported that a California School District contracted a group called ‘Woke Kindergarten’ to train their teachers in “abolitionist early education and pro-black and queer and trans liberation.” Hayward Unified School District, located in Alameda County, CA, paid $250,000 of federal money on a three-year contract - [New Hanover BOE Passes Policy 7205, Detailing Professional Standards of Conduct for Educators](https://schoolboardleader.com/new-hanover-boe-passes-policy-7205-detailing-professional-standards-of-conduct-for-educators/) - Last week, the New Hanover County Board of Education passed Policy 7205, which details new standards of conduct for teachers in the classroom. The policy itself lays out rules for how teachers and other employees ought to behave as role models for students, abstain from any fraudulent or dishonest actions, and carry themselves professionally in - [SBAE, Other Academic Achievement Groups Emerge Nationwide As NSBA Influence Wanes](https://schoolboardleader.com/sbae-other-academic-achievement-groups-emerge-nationwide-as-nsba-influence-wanes/) - Since the National School Board Associations’ (NSBA) historical blunder in September of 2021, the group’s blanket influence has waned, giving new groups the opportunity to rise up and fill that vacuum. For those who may not remember, in 2021 the NSBA called on the federal government to use law enforcement to silence parents who opposed - [Partisan school board races? New SC bill would make it a requirement ](https://schoolboardleader.com/partisan-school-board-races-new-sc-bill-would-make-it-a-requirement/) - A new South Carolina bill would require school board candidates to register by party and run in partisan elections. The proposal, announced on X (formerly Twitter) via the bill's main sponsor, S.C. Rep. Adam Morgan, quickly drew strong reactions from both sides of the discussion, and resurfaced a political debate that spanned weeks in 2022. - [California School District Contracts Woke Kindergarten Group to 'Fix' Low Proficiency Rates](https://schoolboardleader.com/california-school-district-contracts-woke-kindergarten-group-to-fix-low-proficiency-rates/) - In a feeble attempt to increase student attendance and improve test scores, Hayward Unified School District in Alameda County, California, has paid $250,000 of federal money to a group called Woke Kindergarten to train teachers. The group’s name is not misleading; their mission is to help schools and organizations teach “abolitionist early education and pro-black - [Hundreds of Durham Public Schools Employees Protest Potential Paycut with Organized "Sick Out"](https://schoolboardleader.com/hundreds-of-durham-public-schools-employees-protest-potential-paycut-with-staged-sick-out/) - On Wednesday, hundreds of Durham Public Schools employees organized and participated in a “sick out,” as a result of growing resentment toward the elimination of thousands of pay raises. The “sick out,” which consisted of these employees calling out “sick,” was spearheaded by the Durham Association of Educators. According to Axios Raleigh, 12 Durham schools - [Cause For Celebration! Two North Carolina Schools Earn Top 20 Spots in CLT8 Ranking](https://schoolboardleader.com/cause-for-celebration-two-north-carolina-schools-earn-top-20-spots-in-clt8-ranking/) - Breaking: Two North Carolina Schools take up spots in the eighth grade Classical Learning Test's Top 20 ranking! The CLT is an exam, much like the SAT, that tests students' classical knowledge. Out of hundreds of schools that participate in the CLT exam across all fifty states, North Carolina eighth graders have secured two spots - [More Charleston students achieving on-track English scores](https://schoolboardleader.com/charleston-county-sees-leap-in-english-scores-for-african-american-hispanic-students/) - READING AND WRITING SCORES ON THE RISE IN SOUTH CAROLINA'S LOWCOUNTRY Here’s some uplifting academic news: the Charleston County School District has seen a rise in the percentage of African American and Hispanic 10th graders meeting benchmark scores on a major English exam, according to WCSC (Live5News). The test is the English 2 End-Of-Course Examination Program, or - [Buncombe County School District Offers Minority-Only Mentorship Program in Schools](https://schoolboardleader.com/buncombe-county-school-district-offers-minority-only-mentorship-program-in-schools/) - WNC Citizens for Equality, a watchdog group that defends constitutional rights to equal protection, filed two civil complaints with federal agencies last week, calling out discrimination prominent in Buncombe County School District’s Medical Mentorship Program. This MAHEC Medical Mentoring Program, offered by the Mountain Area Health Education Center, is only open to “underrepresented, marginalized, high school - [Select Few States Are Shining Examples of Learning Loss Recovery](https://schoolboardleader.com/select-few-states-are-shining-examples-of-learning-loss-recovery/) - Since the nationwide implications of learning loss took root in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, some states more than others have led the country in learning loss recovery. A study published by Harvard University’s Center for Education Policy Research and Stanford University’s Educational Opportunity Project, called the Education Recovery Scorecard, has shown that 2022 - [Districts across U.S., Carolinas confront severe enrollment declines ](https://schoolboardleader.com/districts-across-u-s-carolinas-confront-severe-enrollment-declines/) - Across the country, education leaders face—or will soon confront—difficult choices caused by widespread enrollment declines. The issue is so pervasive that thousands of schools are at risk of closing, according to new data. Many others face disruptions because of smaller staffs, shrinking budgets and merging classrooms. Last year, a Brookings Institution study on enrollment - [Indiana launching "early warning dashboard" to address chronic absenteeism](https://schoolboardleader.com/indiana-launching-early-warning-dashboard-to-address-severe-absenteeism/) - A student is considered chronically absent if they miss 10% or more school days during the academic year. Last year in Indiana, half of students across 84 schools met that definition—and districts in Gary and Muncie reported chronic absence rates of more than 70% and 60%, respectively. The data comes from a new report by - [States Should Embrace Scientifically Based Reading Instruction](https://schoolboardleader.com/states-should-embrace-scientifically-based-reading-instruction/) - The process of teaching students how to read has not always been viewed as a science, but in recent years states have been transitioning into employing a “scientifically based reading instruction.” Noted as “the Science of Reading” in the National Council on Teacher Quality’s (NCTQ) new report, this new way of approaching reading instruction is - [State Legislatures Do Have the Power to Help Students Recover from Learning Loss](https://schoolboardleader.com/state-legislatures-do-have-the-power-to-help-students-recover-from-learning-loss/) - As we wrap up the fourth full year of living with COVID, it is high time to reflect on how students are recovering in North Carolina from the learning loss wrought by its impact. A spot of good news: NC children are experiencing a slow recovery, according to a state report released in early January. - [As A Nation, We Must Do Better By Our Students](https://schoolboardleader.com/as-a-nation-we-must-do-better-by-our-students/) - As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, CALN does not take stances on social issues and political questions. That being said, we do call into question instances where there are or will be clear implications of learning loss for students across the country. It is time to address the fact that as a nation, we are failing our - [School Board Members Should Prioritize Student Achievement](https://schoolboardleader.com/school-board-members-should-prioritize-student-achievement/) - After decades of consistent occupancy on the District 4 School Board seat in Wake County, North Carolina, the past couple of years have seen comparatively heavy turnover. Last week, the now former seated member, Tara Waters, resigned to transfer to an open position on the Wake County Board of Commissioners. She served in that seat - [Education bills to watch in 2024 (South Carolina) ](https://schoolboardleader.com/education-bills-to-watch-in-2024-south-carolina/) - It’s a new year in South Carolina – which, like every January, means it’s the beginning of a new legislative session. With plenty of education bills circulating at the Statehouse, now is the perfect time for a quick refresher on the legislative session and a look at some bills to watch in 2024. First things - [Acts of kindness: S.C. students surprised with Christmas gifts](https://schoolboardleader.com/acts-of-kindess-s-c-students-surprised-with-christmas-gifts/) - STUDENTS GREETED WITH HOLIDAY SURPRISE BY EDUCATION LEADERS AND COMMUNITY Students in Orangeburg, South Carolina enjoyed a cheerful holiday surprise this year. Ruby Edwards, who serves as chair of the Orangeburg County School Board, joined community members on Dec. 15 to deliver Christmas gifts to more than 100 students across local elementary schools. The - [Some NC Schools are Embracing the Use of ChatGPT, But What Will This Mean for Students?](https://schoolboardleader.com/some-nc-schools-are-embracing-the-use-of-chatgpt-but-what-will-this-mean-for-students/) - Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming more advanced by the minute, and evolving into a more integral part of society every day. Among the latest innovations is a software called ChatGPT, an AI chatbot that spits out humanlike conversational dialogue while learning exponentially from itself and its previous inputs. ChatGPT can research or write anything from - [NC Reading and Math Scores Remain Below Pre-Pandemic Percentages, Despite Growth](https://schoolboardleader.com/nc-reading-and-math-scores-remain-below-pre-pandemic-percentages-despite-growth/) - Student performance on end-of-grade tests transparently divulges whether states are implementing the right methods to prioritize student achievement. Reading proficiency and math skills are perhaps the two most telling indicators of student capability. Since the pandemic, the nation has experienced learning loss to a drastic degree. EOG scores have revealed that North Carolina students - [AJ Crabill explains how to be 'Great on Their Behalf'](https://schoolboardleader.com/aj-craybill-explains-that-school-systems-exist-to-improve-student-outcomes/) - “School systems exist for one reason and one reason only: to improve student outcomes.” -AJ Crabill Our friends at the Kansas School Board Resource Center have provided us with a Christmas present! Watch this powerful video of Great on Their Behalf author AJ Crabill coaching a group of Kansas school board members on how they can make their boards successful at focusing on student - [Districts across U.S., Carolinas tighten cellphone policies to preserve learning ](https://schoolboardleader.com/districts-across-u-s-carolinas-tighten-cellphone-policies-to-preserve-learning/) - The 74 reports that school districts are driving major sales for a cellphone pouch and storage company, indicating that local policymakers are looking for new and effective solutions to curb phone use at school. The magnetic-lock pouches, made by Yondr, hold students' phones during the school day and keep them out of the classroom. - [Indianapolis Public School System Engages Efforts to Reinvigorate Student Enrollment](https://schoolboardleader.com/indianapolis-public-school-system-engages-efforts-to-reinvigorate-student-enrollment/) - Traditional K-12 institutions are realizing that they no longer have a guaranteed market as alternative options become more attractive to parents. IPS found the solution: a new marketing strategy and reorganization plan aimed at bolstering competition, boosting enrollment, and fixing their public school system. After experiencing decades of decline in public school enrollment, the Indianapolis - [St. Paul Sets Example of Transparency in COVID Relief Education Spending](https://schoolboardleader.com/st-paul-sets-example-of-transparency-in-covid-relief-education-spending/) - The St. Paul, Minnesota School District has set an impressive example of how others should approach spending their COVID relief funds. By prioritizing transparency and community involvement, parents can be confident that the funds are reinvigorating student achievement in public schools. The Coronavirus pandemic brought countless adverse effects upon our children in particular, not the - [Global assessment sheds light on U.S. student performance  ](https://schoolboardleader.com/global-study-sheds-light-on-u-s-student-performance/) - According to a global study of 15-year-old students' academic ability, American teenagers exhibit lower math skills compared to pre-pandemic levels. Other developed nations show a similar trend. However, in reading and science, U.S. performance has remained largely stable, even as international scores decline. Students from 81 nations or regions participated in the 2022 study, called the - [South Carolina launches new Education Funding Dashboard](https://schoolboardleader.com/south-carolina-launches-new-education-funding-dashboard/) - NEW K-12 FUNDING WEBPAGE A GREAT RESOURCE FOR PARENTS, SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS In a move to promote transparency, South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster recently announced the launch of a brand-new Education Funding Dashboard. The tool is designed to let parents and taxpayers quickly see how local school districts are spending taxpayer money. It also lets school - [Teachers using handwritten assignments to counter AI, survey shows](https://schoolboardleader.com/no-wi-fi-no-problem-handwritten-assignments-used-to-counter-ai-survey-shows/) - As powerful artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT become more widely used, including by students, education leaders face challenging questions. How should school districts respond to this technology? And what steps are needed to protect learning integrity? A recent survey of educators could offer new insight, which shows that classic, and sometimes computerless, instruction methods - [S.C. district has plans to get schools back on track](https://schoolboardleader.com/s-c-district-has-plans-to-get-schools-back-on-track/) - After several of its schools received low marks on their 2022-23 report cards, the Orangeburg County School District (OCSD) has formalized plans to improve academic performance and get them back on track. The plans were first reported in a story by the Orangeburg-based Times and Democrat. Four elementary schools and four high schools in the - [School Board Members Watching Supreme Court Cases](https://schoolboardleader.com/school-board-members-watching-supreme-court-cases/) - Recently the United State Supreme Court heard two cases that will help to determine whether a public official’s personal social media page discussing government business constitutes state action or merely personal speech under the first amendment. At issue is how school board members interact with the public, how school board members conduct business and how - [One state rethinks federal funding](https://schoolboardleader.com/one-state-considers-rejecting-federal-k-12-funding/) - Frustration with federal education policy and funding mandates has moved the state of Tennessee to consider a historic move to reject federal K-12 education funds, a step no state has taken before. This initiative, led by a legislative task force, is exploring the feasibility of replacing federal dollars with state funding to get out from - [Congresswoman Virginia Foxx Highlights Carolina’s Academic Leadership Network Inaugural Event](https://schoolboardleader.com/congresswoman-virginia-foxx-highlights-carolinas-academic-leadership-network-inaugural-event/) - On June 28th, the Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN) hosted a kickoff event in Charlotte for school board members and academic leaders in North and South Carolina. CALN is a new Project of the John Locke Foundation of North Carolina and the Palmetto Promise Institute and South Carolina Policy Council, both located in South Carolina. - [States: Age-appropriate content boosts achievement; graphic content does not](https://schoolboardleader.com/states-age-appropriate-content-boosts-achievement-graphic-content-does-opposite/) - The front line in the battle for student achievement, parental rights, and age-appropriate content is your local school and public library. Florida is the latest addition to a growing list of states, including Alabama, South Carolina, Wyoming, Missouri, and Texas, that have ended their affiliation with the American Library Association (ALA). The decision stems from parents and - [Kansas finds no evidence that DEI helps minority achievement](https://schoolboardleader.com/kansas-finds-no-evidence-that-dei-helps-minority-achievement/) - The Kansas Policy Institute reports: Minorities and low-income students are falling further behind despite Kansas taxpayers giving school districts $3.8 billion in at-risk funding since 2015 to improve outcomes and close achievement gaps on the state assessment. At the same time, many school districts implemented diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training, theoretically, to improve minority - [Title IX Changes on Gender Identity: School Boards Should Plan Now](https://schoolboardleader.com/title-ix-changes-on-gender-identity-school-boards-should-plan-now/) - According to a new report from attorney Cory Brewer of the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty, school boards should anticipate controversial changes to Title IX coming sometime this fall. Brewer writes about the potential changes to Title IX in a policy brief for the American Enterprise Institute: [T]he US Department of Education (ED) plans - [CALN Initiative Recognized by South Carolina Local Independent Media Outlet](https://schoolboardleader.com/caln-initiative-recognized-by-south-carolina-local-independent-media-outlet/) - Following our June kickoff event, the CALN initiative and our emphasis on student achievement started catching the eye of local media, including the South Carolina online news publication FITSNews. In a July 3 article, Will Folks, founding editor of the news outlet, describes CALN as a project to “empower school board members across both states ## Pages - [Home](https://schoolboardleader.com/) - [About the Carolinas Academic Leadership Network](https://schoolboardleader.com/about/) - Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN) exists to empower school board members in North Carolina and South Carolina with the training and tools they need to serve students and their districts free from the toxicity often found in today’s political climate. CALN launched as a joint project between the John Locke Foundation (Locke) in North Carolina - [Code of Conduct](https://schoolboardleader.com/code-of-conduct/) - CALN is committed to maintaining a respectful, constructive, and mission-aligned community. As such, it reserves the right to deny, suspend, or terminate an individual’s Board Champions membership for any reason subject to applicable law, including but not limited to the following conduct: Disruptive behavior during CALN-sponsored events or programs. Harassment or personal attacks against other - [Account](https://schoolboardleader.com/account/) - [Thank You](https://schoolboardleader.com/thank-you-2/) - Your subscription has been set up successfully. - [Sign In](https://schoolboardleader.com/sign-in/) - Log in to your account Forgot password or need to sign up? - [Application](https://schoolboardleader.com/apply/) - Application If you have questions about becoming a member of CALN, please reach out to Kayla Maloney at info@schoolboardleader.com - [Contact Us](https://schoolboardleader.com/contact/) - Mailing address: Carolinas Academic Leadership Network 4800 Six Forks Rd. Suite 220 Raleigh, NC 27609 - [Resources](https://schoolboardleader.com/resource/) - [Login](https://schoolboardleader.com/login/) - [Donate](https://schoolboardleader.com/donate/) - CALN is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and your contribution is fully tax-deductible. By supporting Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN), you allow us to provide world-class educational resources to school board members in North and South Carolina and foster academic excellence in our public schools. On behalf of CALN, our school board partners, and the millions - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://schoolboardleader.com/about/frequently-asked-questions/) - 1. What is CALN? CALN stands for Carolinas Academic Leadership Network. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Our mission is simple: to serve public school board members who prioritize student achievement, parental involvement, and community service. CALN provides members with professional development, governance guidance, networking opportunities, and other benefits. 2. Who or What is behind - [Upcoming Events](https://schoolboardleader.com/upcoming-events/) - [Privacy Policy](https://schoolboardleader.com/privacy-policy/) - Updated September 1st, 2023 This website or mobile application is operated by CALN (Carolinas Academic Leadership Network). This privacy policy explains how personal information is collected, used, and disclosed by CALN with respect to your use of the site and mobile applications which display this Policy (the “Site”) so you can make an informed decision - [Thank you for applying](https://schoolboardleader.com/thank-you-for-applying/) - Thank you for applying for membership, we will review your application. - [Edit Profile](https://schoolboardleader.com/edit-profile/) - You can use this form to update your name, email or password. - [Past Events](https://schoolboardleader.com/past-events/) - [Thank you!](https://schoolboardleader.com/thank-you/) - Thank you for applying for membership to the Carolinas Academic Leadership Network. We will review your application and lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate - [Newsletter](https://schoolboardleader.com/newsletter/) ## Memberships - [Paid Member](https://schoolboardleader.com/register/paid-member/) - 2 - [Paid Member Annual](https://schoolboardleader.com/register/paid-member-annual/) ## Events - ["New State Budgets: What Board Members Should Know"](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/new-state-budgets-what-board-members-should-know/) - What do North and South Carolina have in common? They both have a recent history of starting a new year without a budget. CALN Director Bryce Fiedler will open the discussion with a look at SC's pending budget—covering what's new for education, where the House and Senate disagree, and what happens if the state doesn't - [May Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/may-education-school-board-law-webinar-2/) - As we approach the new fiscal year, this month’s webinar delves into school funding, teacher pay, and much more. We’ll begin with a short review of the recent Leandro decision, where education law attorney Jonathan Vogel will separate truth from fiction and discuss what the ruling really means for school districts. Then, Terry Stoops of Defending Education will give a briefing on teacher pay proposals from North and South Carolina, state budget - [April Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/april-education-school-board-law-webinar-2/) - Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping nearly every facet of public life—including education. In this webinar, you'll learn about the role of school boards in establishing AI policies in their districts and why setting clear parameters now rather than later is important. Led by education law attorney Jonathan Vogel, we will discuss: Prioritizing academic integrity and - [School Board Candidate Training (NC-Greensboro)](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/school-board-candidate-training-nc-greensboro/) - Are you passionate about leadership and making a positive impact in education? Join Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN) for an interactive training in the art of running for school board—and what it takes to effectively govern once you’re in office. This nonpartisan training is open to school board incumbents, candidates, parents, community leaders, and anyone - [School Board Candidate Training (SC-Lexington)](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/school-board-candidate-training-sc-lexington/) - Are you passionate about leadership and making a positive impact in education? Join Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN) for an interactive training in the art of running for school board—and what it takes to effectively govern once you’re in office. This nonpartisan training is open to school board incumbents, candidates, parents, community leaders, and anyone - [CALN Pre-Conference Session (Preceding SBAE Summer Conference)](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/caln-pre-conference-session-preceding-sbae-summer-conference/) - Join CALN and School Boards for Academic Excellence in Charleston, South Carolina as we mark the 250th Anniversary of American independence—a fitting backdrop as we work to strengthen the foundation of public education in our communities. This conference is designed for school board members and education leaders ready to turn strategy into action. Whether you're - [February Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/february-education-school-board-law-webinar-2/) - Is DEI truly dead in public education? Not quite. It's been over a year since President Donald Trump returned to the White House. Despite swift action in his first few months of office aimed at eliminating DEI in public institutions, recent legal roadblocks have created a more complicated reality on the ground. What does that - [NC Legislative Preview](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/nc-legislative-preview/) - Join us over Zoom on Tuesday, February 10th, at noon for an inside look at North Carolina's 2026 short session, covering K-12 bills and budget developments board members should be aware of, as well as the outcome of relevant veto overrides should they occur. Kaitlyn Shepherd, policy analyst for the John Locke Foundation's Center for - [SC Legislative Preview](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/sc-legislative-preview/) - Join us over Zoom on Thursday, February 12th, at noon for an insider look at the K-12 bills in play in this year's South Carolina legislative session. We will be hosting Sam Aaron, research director for the South Carolina Policy Council, for a special briefing on what to watch in 2026. - [School Board Bootcamp](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/school-board-bootcamp/) - Join CALN in Spartanburg, SC, for our second annual School Board Bootcamp. This comprehensive full-day training covers the essentials of school board governance, equipping you with the skills and confidence to effectively serve your communities. Board members of all experience levels, in particular recently elected trustees, are highly encouraged to attend. There is no cost - [December Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/december-education-school-board-law-webinar/) - This month's Education & School Board Law webinar will delve into open enrollment and explore how more districts can adopt flexible policies allowing students to enroll in schools outside of their normally designated attendance zone. Such policies, which polling shows are broadly supported by parents, are an effective public-school choice option that expand educational opportunities - [Carolinas Education Roundtable](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/carolinas-education-roundtable/) - Bringing together legislative, business, and policy leaders, the roundtable will provide an opportunity to learn about and discuss shared priorities in education across North and South Carolina. Speakers will share insights from their respective fields on the trends shaping the K-12 landscape, emerging developments, and opportunities for reform in 2026. To learn more or register, - [October Education & School Board Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/october-education-school-board-webinar/) - In light of recent events, this highly requested topic will review expectations for teacher conduct regarding online public comments. We will explore best practices for social media policies set by districts and how to clarify expectations for staff, covering behavior inside and outside of school grounds. Education law attorney Jonathan Vogel will lead our discussion, - [September Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/september-education-school-board-law-webinar/) - Join us on Thursday, September 25 for a robust discussion on school safety, where we will cover relevant policies and funding opportunities school board members should be aware of. Led by education law attorney Jonathan Vogel, this webinar will also provide information on: Developments in the funding of school safety positions including SROs Legislative proposals - [Igniting School Reform: Dinner & Networking Event](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/igniting-school-reform-dinner-networking-event/) - Ready to meet like-minded leaders and drive change in your school district? Join CALN and Leadership Institute in Charleston for an evening of fellowship, learning, and great food along South Carolina's scenic coast. This event is designed for school board members, engaged parents, education professionals, and community leaders at all levels. It kicks off with a *special training - [August Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/august-education-school-board-law-webinar/) - Change is on the horizon for technology in the classroom. Join us on Friday, August 22, for a webinar on new legislation curbing cell phone use in schools and requiring North Carolina school boards to track spending and costs related to digital devices. Plus, we’ll examine how one local district is working to re-prioritize pen - [June Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/june-education-school-board-law-webinar/) - This month’s heavily requested topic will cover the latest updates on religious freedom in public schools by delving into pending changes to acceptable curriculums and policies. Attorney Jonathan Vogel will discuss Mahmoud v. Taylor, a Supreme Court case that will be decided by or before the end of June, as well as President Trump’s executive orders - [School Board Candidate Training (North Carolina)](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/school-board-candidate-training-north-carolina/) - Are you passionate about leadership and making a positive impact in education? Join Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN) for an interactive training in the art of running for school board—and what it takes to effectively govern once you’re in office. This training is open to school board incumbents, aspiring candidates, parents, community leaders, and anyone - [Legislative Advocacy Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/legislative-advocacy-webinar/) - Are you looking to engage with legislators and advocate for meaningful policies on behalf of students? Join us on Wednesday, May 21, for a virtual webinar on legislative advocacy. Andrew Brock, a former NC State Senator with over 14 years of legislative experience, will educate trustees on how to effectively engage with their representatives, build - [May Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/may-education-school-board-law-webinar/) - Our monthly webinar with Jonathan Vogel will take place on a different day than usual. Join us on Thursday, May 29 at Noon, to discuss President Trump’s April 23 executive order, “Reinstating Common Sense School Discipline Policies” and its accompanying fact sheet. The EO gives Secretary McMahon 30 days to issue guidance on school discipline policy, with - [April Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/april-education-school-board-law-webinar/) - Topic: The Department of Education This Education and School Board Law webinar will examine President Trump's executive order aimed at closing the US Department of Education. We will explore the practical limits of this executive decision, what the future holds for the department and the subsequent role of states in education, and how local leaders, - [School Board Candidate Training (Spartanburg)](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/school-board-candidate-training-spartanburg/) - Are you passionate about leadership and making a positive impact in education? Join Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN) for an interactive training in the art of running for school board—and what it takes to effectively govern once you’re in office. This training is open to school board incumbents, aspiring candidates, parents, community leaders, and anyone - [February Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/february-education-school-board-law-webinar/) - Let's make sense of President Trump's numerous Executive Orders in the world of education: his banning of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Critical Race Theory; and men in women's sports. What do these things mean for K-12 education? Find out during this month's Education and School Board Law Webinar! - [North Carolina Legislative Preview](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/north-carolina-legislative-preview/) - Join us over Zoom on Wednesday, February 12th to learn what is happening in the North Carolina state legislature! We will be hosting Kaitlyn Shepherd to discuss what to expect for 2025! - [January Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/january-education-school-board-law-webinar/) - Join us for our monthly Education & School Board Law webinar with Jonathan Vogel! This month's topics are parental rights over information on their child and freedom from compelled speech for students. Relevant laws regarding the former include the Parents Bill of Rights (NC) and this Informing parents law (SC). And, the SC Attorney General is co-leading a - [South Carolina Legislative Preview](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/north-and-south-carolina-legislative-preview/) - Join us over Zoom on Friday, February 6th to learn what is happening in the South Carolina state legislature! We will be hosting Dr. Oran Smith and Sam Aaron to discuss what to expect for 2025! - [NC School Board Bootcamp](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/nc-school-board-boot-camp/) - Join us in Raleigh, NC, for CALN’s inaugural School Board Bootcamp—a free, comprehensive day of professional development covering the core responsibilities of school board service. Attendees will learn from renowned experts about school board fundamentals, effective budgeting strategies, curriculum selection, parliamentary procedure, and how trustees can foster academic excellence in their districts. First-time board members are - [SC School Board Bootcamp](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/sc-school-board-boot-camp/) - Join us in Columbia, SC, for CALN’s inaugural School Board Bootcamp—a free, comprehensive day of professional development covering the core responsibilities of school board service. Attendees will learn from renowned experts about school board fundamentals, effective budgeting strategies, curriculum selection, parliamentary procedure, and how trustees can foster academic excellence in their districts. First-time board members are - [Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/education-school-board-law-webinar-2/) - Navigating the complexities of education law and district governance is an everyday challenge for school board members. Many of you have asked us for assistance in this critical area, so each month we will host an Education & School Board Law webinar to address topics of your choice! These webinars will be led by attorney - [Community & Education Networking Night](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/education-leaders-networking-night/) - Are you a parent, taxpayer, school board member, education leader, or policy maker committed to student achievement? We invite you to join us for an evening of networking and engaging conversation as we celebrate CALN’s more than one year of successes and rally support for academic excellence in the Carolinas. Hear from state and local leaders shaping education: Michele Morrow, Republican Candidate for NC Superintendent of Public - [Education & School Board Law Webinar](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/education-school-board-law-webinar/) - Navigating the complexities of education law and district governance is an everyday challenge for school board members. Many of you have asked us for assistance in this critical area, and we are excited to announce that each month we will host an Education & School Board Law webinar to address topics of your choice! These - [Budgeting 101 with Aaron Beaulieu](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/budgeting-101-with-aaron-beaulieu/) - On Thursday, July 18 from Noon to 1:30, CALN is hosting a Budget Briefing for school board members! We will be bringing in Aaron Beaulieu to discuss how your districts spend taxpayer money and train you in the art of budgeting. Are you bored over budgets? Confused about what to look for or how to spend? - [Presenting the Franklin Standards](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/presenting-the-franklin-standards/) - The National Association of Scholars and Freedom in Education want to improve every aspect of American science instruction by inspiring America’s state education departments to provide similar science standards. They therefore provide the Franklin Standards, so that Americans can reclaim their scientific and technological heritage as a nation second to none of scientists, engineers, and informed - [South Carolina Candidate and Community Primer](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/south-carolina-candidate-and-community-primer/) - Join us in Columbia, SC or on Zoom for a comprehensive, one-day training complete with sessions on academic achievement, SC education policy, the Dashboard and Education Scholarship Trust Fund, campaign finance, and fundraising! School board members, candidates, and all community members are invited! In-person attendees will receive useful packets, swag, and a free Chick-fil-a lunch. - [NC School Board Candidates and Community Primer](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/nc-school-board-candidates-and-community-primer/) - Join us in Raleigh, NC or on Zoom for a comprehensive, one-day training complete with sessions on: Academic achievement ‘What to expect’ as a School Board Member Effective Communication Campaign finance and open records Policy and the School Calendar Campaign Fundraising School board members, candidates, and community members are invited! In-person attendees will receive useful - [Legislative Preview Zoom Call](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/legislative-preview-zoom-call/) - You MUST RSVP in advance! Join us over Zoom on Friday, January 19th to learn what is happening in the North and South Carolina state legislatures! We will be hosting two experts from each state to discuss what to expect for 2024! From North Carolina: Jessica Proctor and Dr. Robert Luebke From South Carolina: Bryce - [CALN Professional Development - South Carolina](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/caln-professional-development-south-carolina/) - [Virtual "Lunch and Learn" with Cory Brewer with Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/virtual-lunch-and-learn-with-cory-brewer-associate-counsel-at-wisconsin-institute-for-law-and-liberty/) - [CALN Professional Development - North Carolina](https://schoolboardleader.com/events/caln-professional-development-north-carolina/) ## Resources - [School Board Resources Center](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/trusted-resources-tools/) - Here you can find a variety of trusted resources and tools to effectively represent your community on the school board. Categories Policy Resources Elevating Student Achievement Tools for Effective Governance Models and School Board Structure Books for School Board Members Studies and Publications Podcasts and Videos Resource hotline: Are you looking for a school board - [School Board Bootcamps Training Materials](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/school-board-bootcamps/) - Here you can find materials from our School Board Bootcamps, which provided training and onboarding support for newly elected board members. 2026 School Board Bootcamp Presentations A Crash Course on Board Member Responsibilities – Cindy Coats: Berkeley County School Board Trustee Ethics Isn't Optional – Alex Sherard: Sr. Associate Attorney, White Story & Hicks, LLC - [K-12 Legal Summaries](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/education-school-board-law-summaries/) - Explore summaries of our Education & School Board Law webinars, featuring helpful information for board members on a wide range of K–12 legal issues. Each summary blends best practices, useful considerations, and relevant legal insights. ESBL #1: Book Challenges and Age-Appropriate Content ESBL #2: Public Records and Open Meetings ESBL #3: Title IX and Parents' - [Training Video Library](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/training-videos-library/) - Watch previous CALN trainings anytime or anywhere using the links below. Whether you missed an event or want a refresher on a particular course, our video library has you covered. Look forward to more recordings as we host additional events in the future. Policy Webinars Navigating AI Policy in Education - Jonathan Vogel SC School - [Model Policies](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/model-policies/) - Here you can find a selection of model policies covering instruction, curriculum, and public transparency, among other areas. These can give your board a helpful template or be a launching pad for new ideas to enhance education. This list will expand over time. Model Policies Back-to-Basics Education Curriculum Audits Parent and Public Access to Curriculum - [Suggest a topic: Education & School Board Law webinars](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/suggest-a-webinar-topic/) - Navigating the complexities of education law and district governance is an everyday challenge for school board leaders. CALN is here to help you on this journey. Join us for monthly Education & School Board Law webinars with attorney and former deputy general counsel at the U.S. Department of Education Jonathan Vogel of the Vogel Law - [Superintendent and Executive Staff Search ](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/superintendent-and-executive-staff-search/) - We know that staffing decisions are among the most important choices your district will make, with the success of your schools and students riding on finding the right person for every role. CALN can connect you with a trusted partner at Employment Simplified (ESI) to assist in your search. ESI is a veteran-owned employment solutions - [Curriculum Review](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/test/) - Curriculum oversight is among a school board’s top responsibilities. But gaining a clear and complete picture of what that curriculum includes is hard to come by. We want to change that. CALN is working with School Boards for Academic Excellence (SBAE) and curriculum specialist Jordan Adams to make it easy for school boards to provide - [Parliamentary Second Opinion](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/parliamentary-second-opinion/) - Trying to make change—but stuck on the “how”? CALN can connect you with a professional parliamentarian and former school board member to discuss your options for overcoming boardroom obstacles through strategy and parliamentary procedure, helping you turn ideas into action. This service may include a review of your relevant district policies with regard to meetings, - [Setting SMART Goals](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/setting-smart-goals/) - Effective school boards must be able to establish a clear vision and direction for their district aligned with student needs and community values. Boards can guide their districts toward this desired vision by setting and monitoring strategic goals, particularly those which are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Bound (SMART). To assist you, CALN has prepared - [Resources Hotline: Priority Response](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/resources-hotline-priority-response/) - Looking for data or have a general question? Our Resources Hotline is here to help. And because of your Board Champions membership, you will receive priority responses to your inquiries. Write us at info@schoolboardleader.com, and a CALN team member will assist you. General areas where we can assist: State statute search and explanation School board - [Training & Development Opportunities](https://schoolboardleader.com/resources/training-development-opportunities/) - CALN is thrilled to offer school board members a comprehensive list of training and professional development opportunities through other organizations that provide in-person and virtual sessions. Center for Self Governance Every American has a role in preserving liberty and shaping our republic. Whether you’re just beginning or ready to lead, CSG's proven Pathway to Self Governance equips ## Persons - [Bryce Fiedler](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/bryce-fiedler/) - Bryce is the founding director of Carolinas Academic Leadership Network (CALN). He is responsible for managing CALN's day-to-day operations and educational services, ensuring it provides first-in-class resources and professional development to school board members in North and South Carolina. Prior to joining CALN as director, Bryce served as the senior policy analyst at the South - [Kayla Maloney](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/kayla-maloney/) - Kayla serves as the Project Manager for the Carolinas Academic Leadership Network. She received her Masters of Public Administration at North Carolina State University. As the daughter of a 9/11 first responder, Kayla was raised to put God, family, and country first. She believes that the only way to solve most of the issues this - [Felicity Ropp](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/felicity-ropp/) - [Pam McKinney](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/pam-mckinney/) - Pam is a member of the Charleston County School Board (CCSB) and previously served as its board chair. She formerly taught AP Calculus and other high school math courses in the Charleston County School District for a decade. After leaving the classroom full-time, Pam retained her passion for education and became a substitute teacher. Today, - [Oran P. Smith, PhD](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/oran-p-smith-phd/) - Oran P. Smith is a Senior Fellow with the Palmetto Promise Institute. Oran P. Smith has developed a reputation as a trusted adviser and public policy advocate during his many years of service in the Palmetto State. His prior service includes 17 years as President of Palmetto Family Council, COO of the SC Business & - [Donald Bryson](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/donald-bryson/) - Donald Bryson is the Chief Executive Officer of the John Locke Foundation and publisher of The Carolina Journal. Previously, Bryson was the president and CEO of Civitas Institute and state director of Americans for Prosperity-North Carolina (AFP-NC). While at the helm of AFP-NC from 2014-2018, he led the chapter through several successful campaigns to expand conservative - [Amy O. Cooke](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/amy-o-cooke/) - Amy O. Cooke is the retired Chief Executive Officer of the John Locke Foundation, Publisher of Carolina Journal, and founder of the public policy consulting firm East x West Strategies. As Locke’s CEO, Amy led the organization through the COVID crisis and merger with the Civitas Institute that transformed Locke from a think tank into - [Team CALN](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/team-caln/) - [Wendy Damron](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/wendy-damron/) - Wendy Damron is the President and CEO of the Palmetto Institute. Wendy Damron graduated with distinction from the University of Michigan-Dearborn with a Bachelor of Business Administration. She started her career at Ernst & Young LLP as a CPA in both the Detroit and Baltimore offices, where she practiced all aspects of tax with a - [Robert Luebke, PhD](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/bob-luebke-phd/) - Dr. Robert Luebke serves as Director of the Center for Effective Education at the John Locke Foundation. For the better part of the last three decades, Dr. Luebke has been involved in improving education and expanding educational opportunity. Prior to joining the Locke Foundation, he wrote about education policy and served as the Director of - [Sam Aaron](https://schoolboardleader.com/bio/sam-aaron/) - Sam Aaron serves as a Policy Analyst for the South Carolina Policy Council. Sam is a Palmetto State native, attended the University of South Carolina, and received a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in history in late 2021. Sam joined SCPC shortly after graduating and is the organization’s most recent full-time staff ## Across the Carolinas - [Education Freedom Tax Credit Scholarship benefits private and public schools](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/education-freedom-tax-credit-scholarship-benefits-private-and-public-schools/) - The Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC) has been much in the news lately. How does EFTC work? Taxpayers can make a donation of up to $1,700 to approved Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) which will disburse the funds to eligible children . The contribution is also a tax credit which reduces the donor’s tax liability commensurate - [NC home school numbers fall](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/nc-home-school-numbers-fall/) - Earlier this week the Office of North Carolina Office of Non-Public Education released new enrollment numbers for private schools and home schools in North Carolina. My colleague, Kaitlyn Shepherd analyzed changes in the private school numbers here. Now, it’s my turn to do the same for homeschooling. First three general observations: Enrollment. For the 2025-26 - [Rising private school enrollment shows need for enough seats](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/rising-private-school-enrollment-shows-need-for-enough-seats/) - More students than ever are enrolling in North Carolina’s private schools, according to a new report from the Division of Non-Public Education. The data show that North Carolina’s private schools educated 143,998 students during the 2025–26 school year, a 6 percent increase from the year before. Enrollment in private schools has been rising in North - [Fueling the discussion on open enrollment: study bill and model legislation.](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/fueling-the-discussion-on-open-enrollment-study-bill-and-model-legislation/) - Parents want more educational options. While school choice has grown in recent years, seventy-five percent of all K-12 students still attend public schools In North Carolina. School choice has come slowly to public schools. North Carolina has over 200 charter schools and many magnet schools but access to those choices is largely controlled by others. - [Model within-district open enrollment policy for school districts](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/model-within-district-open-enrollment-policy-for-school-districts/) - Within-district open enrollment is a form of school choice that lets parents choose any traditional public school within their child’s resident school district if there are open seats. The following model policy can be adapted by school districts to implement within-district open enrollment and provide more educational options for the students within their boundaries. Within-District - [Open enrollment model legislation](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/open-enrollment-model-legislation/) - The following represents model legislation for North Carolina to establish within-district and cross-district open enrollment. Open Enrollment Model Legislation_2Download The post Open enrollment model legislation appeared first on John Locke Foundation. - [Our schools need to look at some hard numbers.](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/our-schools-need-to-look-at-some-hard-numbers/) - North Carolina is one of the fastest growing states in the nation. That’s a phrase we’ve heard frequently over the last few years. Evidence for it is in the increased traffic on our roads, the growing demand for housing and more pressure on public services. According to US Census data, the state gained 1.16 million - [Open enrollment is the next frontier in NC school choice](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/open-enrollment-is-the-next-frontier-in-nc-school-choice/) - A new report from the John Locke Foundation’s Center for Effective Education explains how state and local policymakers in North Carolina can effectively implement open enrollment to expand access to public schools Recent poll results show the depth and breadth of public support for open enrollment across all economic, political, racial, and geographical groups surveyed - [Why I have a skip in my step](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/why-i-have-a-skip-in-my-step/) - Last week was a pretty good week for those who work to expand educational freedom. The North Carolina Senate voted to override Gov. Josh Stein’s veto of HB 87. That action — coupled with the House override of the same veto on May 20 — means that North Carolina has officially opted in to the - [It’s time to tell the truth about NCAE](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/its-time-to-tell-the-truth-about-ncae/) - A national report which saw big drops in teacher union membership and strength in North Carolina has raised some interesting responses from local media outlets in the Tar Heel State. The report, commissioned by the Fordham Institute of Ohio, found membership among teachers in NCAE declined from 49 percent of educators in 2008 to 21 - [ESA expansion bill puts us on path to universal school choice](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/esa-expansion-bill-puts-us-on-path-to-universal-school-choice/) - [Thanks, Citizen Sleuths!](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/thanks-citizen-sleuths/) - Thanks, Citizen Sleuths! It appears that some in the education lobby didn’t like our “citizen sleuth” exercise from two weeks ago. (This was our call for your help calculating ease of access to health [sexuality] education curricula on school district websites.) Our simple research effort was spun this way in a Senate hearing on curriculum - [South Carolina’s Education Savings Accounts a Love Letter to the Next Generation](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/south-carolinas-education-savings-accounts-a-love-letter-to-the-next-generation/) - The Heritage Foundation’s Jonathan Butcher writes about South Carolina’s new ESA bill in reimaginED, citing PPI research. Shelricka Burnside is a single mother of three, so she is well acquainted with life’s challenges. She can recognize problems even from afar and wants desperately to help her children avoid them. Burnside told the Palmetto Promise Institute in South - [Details of South Carolina’s New Education Scholarship Account Program (Act 8 of 2023)](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/details-of-south-carolinas-new-education-scholarship-account-program-act-8-of-2023/) - After nearly eight years of hard work by Palmetto Promise Institute and many others, South Carolina has a brand new education freedom program on the way! Education Scholarship Trust Fund scholarships will be awarded beginning with the 2024-25 school year. Here are some of the key details: *The official name of the South Carolina program - [Thank you, legislators, for providing education freedom!](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/thank-you-legislators-for-providing-education-freedom/) - With the passage of the Education Scholarship Trust Fund program, also known as Education Scholarship Accounts, there are so many thank yous to offer. So many years of work! it is dangerous to single out individuals, but here are some of our ESA champions: South Carolina SenateSenators Larry Grooms, Greg Hembree, and Rex RiceMajority Leader - [Ignoring the Real Impacts of “Parents Bill of Rights”](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/ignoring-the-real-impacts-of-parents-bill-of-rights/) - NC Schools Must now follow “Parents Bill of Rights.” Here’s how things will change that’s the title of an article in yesterday’s Raleigh News and Observer that describes how the recently passed legislation will impact the classroom and our schools. My quick read generated two complaints. First, the article includes comments from two individuals who - [Plenty of Reasons to Expand the Opportunity Scholarship Program](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/plenty-of-reasons-to-expand-the-opportunity-scholarship-program/) - The legislature may pass significant expansion of the Opportunity Scholarship Program in the budget billGrowing public support for school choice is hard to ignore, and so is the failure of arguments decrying the impacts of choiceExpanding Opportunity Scholarships would help to remedy shortcomings in public education, make the system truly public, reenergize civil society, and - [North Carolina State Board of Education Passes Policy to Reassert Authority over Charter Schools](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/north-carolina-state-board-of-education-passes-policy-to-reassert-authority-over-charter-schools/) - On Sept. 7, the North Carolina State Board of Education approved a new policy entitled “Funding and Accountability for Charter Schools” in an effort to exert more authority over charter school funding. The State Board’s action comes in response to the General Assembly’s move to override Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto of House Bill 618, which - [Opportunity Scholarship Program Empowers Students from Low- and Moderate-Income Households](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/opportunity-scholarship-program-empowers-students-from-low-and-moderate-income-households/) - State government data show that North Carolina’s Opportunity Scholarship Program serves students from low- and moderate-income householdsOf the 17,287 households with OSP recipients during the 2022-2023 academic year, more than 8,000 households reported incomes of $40,000 or less, while approximately 350 households reported incomes of more than $100,000Policymakers could expand access to school choice by - [ESA Bill in a Nutshell](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/esa-bill-in-a-nutshell/) - The following is the statement of Palmetto Promise Institute Senior Fellow Dr. Oran Smith before the House Education and Public Works Committee on the matter of S.39, the Education Scholarships Accounts Act. Update: S.39 was signed by Governor McMaster on May 4, 2023. The effective date of the bill, now Act 8, is June 3, - [Six Weeks Left](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/six-weeks-left/) - It is hard to believe that there are only six weeks left in the first session of the 125th South Carolina General Assembly. But it is looking like a promising first year for the Palmetto Freedom Agenda. Here are some highlights with links to a deeper dive: Not one, but two education freedom bills have - [Generational Change in School Funding Formula](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/generational-change-in-school-funding-formula-2/) - As Governor Henry McMaster and the House Ways & Means Committee were drafting their plans for the state budget year beginning on July 1, 2022, the question of the complex web of funding streams for public education was asked once again. Charter schools in particular were stuck in ad hoc line items rather than receiving - [CRT/Curriculum Transparency Bill Update: Codify and Expand Grooms Proviso](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/crt-curriculum-transparency-bill-update-codify-and-expand-grooms-proviso-2/) - UPDATE. The CRT/Curriculum Transparency bill (H.3728) has passed the South Carolina Senate and House in different forms and a conference committee has been appointed. The Senators on the committee are Senators Jackson, Massey, and Hembree. The House members on the committee are Reps. Erickson, Adam Morgan, and Alexander. The General Assembly is currently out of - [Introducing Carolina Academic Leadership!](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/introducing-carolina-academic-leadership-2/) - Members of district school boards, also known as school trustees, are under pressure like never before. That’s because in the wake of COVID-19, parents and other taxpayers are finally paying attention to their work. To bear the burden of educational leadership in the higher education space, members of college and university boards of trustees enjoy - [South Carolina officials: More work needed on school grades](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/south-carolina-officials-more-work-needed-on-school-grades/) - Dr. Oran Smith is quoted in this article from The Center Square by T.A. DeFeo. (The Center Square) — While about a quarter of South Carolina schools received an excellent grade in a new analysis, officials say more work is needed to ensure students are prepared for their next moves in life. Statewide, state officials - [Anti-ESA Lawsuit Filed](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/anti-esa-lawsuit-filed/) - Statement of Palmetto Promise Institute Eidson v. South Carolina Department of Education October 26, 2023 “The Education Scholarship Trust Fund Act (Act 8), passed by a bipartisan majority of the General Assembly and signed by the Governor, is clearly constitutional. State aid in the ESTF is directed to students, not schools (or to the wide - [Tarheel Shocker: North Carolina Reshuffles the School Choice Deck in the Southeast](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/tarheel-shocker-north-carolina-reshuffles-the-school-choice-deck-in-the-southeast/) - North Carolina has been moving the goalposts on tax reform for nearly a decade. Now, in an unexpected turn of events, the Tarheel State (with a Democrat Governor no less) has tossed down the gauntlet on school choice. On September 22, North Carolina became the tenth state in America to pass universal school choice. Universal - [The NEA Sues South Carolina: Does Their Tillman Constitution Claim Have Merit?](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/the-nea-sues-south-carolina-does-their-tillman-constitution-claim-have-merit/) - Last week, the National Education Association (The NEA/The SCEA) and others announced that they had filed suit against the State Department of Education, State Education Superintendent Ellen Weaver, State Treasurer Curtis Loftis, and the State Treasurer’s Office. Their target? The fledging Education Scholarship Account (ESA) program passed by the legislature in 2023 that would allow - [The Gaslighting of South Carolina Parents](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/the-gaslighting-of-south-carolina-parents/) - Do you know the origin of the term “gaslighting”? The act of “gaslighting” was made famous by the MGM film of that title starring Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer (1944). Bergman won an Oscar for her role.* The husband-villain in the film (Gregory Anton portrayed by Boyer) plots to steal the estate of his loving - [Common Questions About Education Scholarship Accounts (ESAs)](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/common-questions-about-education-scholarship-accounts-esas/) - What is an ESA?ESAs allow parents to apply for eligible students to receive the state portion of education funds (or in the South Carolina case, a portion of state general funds) into a personal, parent-controlled account. Parents are then empowered to customize an education experience that meets the individual needs of their child, using their - [BREAKING: Proposed Library Regulation Passes](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/breaking-proposed-library-regulation-passes/) - On September 28, the State Department of Education (SCDE) published a draft of a “new regulation that addresses school and classroom library materials.” Because it is a state regulation, it is lengthy, but here’s the bottom line. The regulation proposed by the State Department of Education establishes a complaint process and an orderly system for - [Analysis: Blurring the line between education and job training](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/analysis-blurring-the-line-between-education-and-job-training-2/) - [SC’s special-needs scholarship program needs reform](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/scs-special-needs-scholarship-program-needs-reform-2/) - [Keep an eye on these educational reforms in 2024](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/keep-an-eye-on-these-educational-reforms-in-2024-2/) - [Why SC should pass both school choice proposals](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/why-sc-should-pass-both-school-choice-proposals-2/) - [South Carolina's educational shortcomings (and a brighter future ahead)](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/south-carolinas-educational-shortcomings-and-a-brighter-future-ahead-2/) - [Universal school choice: a roadmap for South Carolina](https://schoolboardleader.com/carolinas/universal-school-choice-a-roadmap-for-south-carolina/) ## Templates - 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