National School Choice Week is always a great time for My SC Education. We have an opportunity to celebrate the diverse students and education choices in South Carolina. While the weather didn’t allow for the planned march to the Statehouse, several hundred South Carolina students, parents, teachers, and community members gathered for a high-energy celebration at the USC Alumni Center.
National School Choice Week celebrations are a wonderful way to raise awareness about the various education options available to families. My SC Education also uses this time to advocate for important education policy changes.
This year, despite the weather, more than 900 people packed the USC Alumni Center in celebration of education choice. To kick-off our day, we were entertained by various performances from dance teams, cheer squads a contemporary dancer, soloist and a violinist. The first Air Force ROTC in the State of South Carolina- Unit SC 871-presented the colors while the Northside Christian Academy Choir sang the National Anthem.
We were honored to hear special remarks from Lt. Governor Pamela Evette and State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver. They reminded us that education is not one size fits all and we need to ensure all children, regardless of zip code, have access to high-quality schools. Dedicated educators Dr. Marie Owens, Founder and CEO of Charleston Classical School, Dr. Terri Timothy, Administrator at Royal Live Oaks Academy of the Arts and Sciences, and Ms. Akira Taylor, Math Teacher and Department Leader at Midlands Arts Conservatory-reminded us of the importance of showing up for our youth consistently. We also heard from some student leaders; Ms. Makayla Plemmons of Cyber Academy and Ms. Trinidy Higgins of Gray Collegiate Academy. They reminded us of the importance of school choice by sharing their meaningful experiences. Their innovative schools continue to provide unique education opportunities. Thank you to all who participated! We look forward to next year!
