Palmetto State News

In the Center for Education Reform's 2024 Parent Power Index, South Carolina secured the ninth position, with an Overall Parent Power Index Score of 80.3%.

The index, designed to assess the degree of parental power in each state, highlights key indicators such as Choice Programs, Charter Schools and Innovation. 

South Carolina scored a 75% in Choice Programs, which represents families' ability to access and choose programs that best fit their needs. 

The state's Charter Schools system, which is based on the availability of alternative educational options for students and families, scored an 85%.

In the final category of Innovation, scored on the state's dedication to fostering creative and personalized learning environments, South Carolina earned an 82%.

While Florida claims the top spot with a 93% overall score, states like Arizona, Indiana, Ohio, and North Carolina follow closely behind in the top rankings, emphasizing a national trend towards prioritizing parental involvement in education.

Kansas, South Dakota, and North Dakota round out the bottom of the list along with six other states that received a grade of ‘F’.

The Parent Power Index serves as a valuable resource for families across the country, offering insights into state-level educational policies and opportunities. 

Through the index's interactive map, parents can explore the status of parental empowerment in their state and discover avenues to advocate for greater involvement and choice in education.

"Popping into the top ten for the first time, South Carolina's leadership's bold move to expand a once legally challenged choice program will pave the way for expanded parent power and better education opportunities for kids. Reminiscent of Florida's pathway to the number 1 slot, this fast growing state is on track to becoming a top tier state for education opportunity and innovation," the Parent Power Index notes.

"Governor McMaster has championed innovative change by signing into law the Education Scholarship Trust Fund which gives families $6,000 toward the private education provider of their choice. The program is scheduled to expand access to nearly three-fourths of K-12 students in the Palmetto State by 2026. Let’s hope we haven’t seen the end of the Governor’s efforts to bring more opportunities to South Carolina families," Parent Power Index said in its assessment of the state’s “Policy Environment.”