The South Carolina Supreme Court has agreed to take up the case of Adams, et al. v. McMaster, et al. in its original jurisdiction. Oral arguments on the SAFE Grants program have been set for September 18, 2020.
Commenting on the Court’s decision, Ellen Weaver, the President and CEO of Palmetto Promise Institute, a co-defendant in the case said, “We’re encouraged by the Supreme Court’s decision to expedite this case, which has held up urgently needed education assistance for students impacted by COVID. We are confident in the merits of our legal case and hope we can quickly resolve this issue for the over 15,000 South Carolina families who have reached out, desperately seeking peace of mind for their child’s education.”
Following the announcement, My SC Education released a video, highlighting Governor Henry McMaster, Lt. Governor Pamela Evette, educators, parents, and lawmakers discussing the impact SAFE Grants will have for South Carolina students and families hit hard by COVID-19.
Lt. Governor Pamela Evette emphasized the importance of parental choice in education during her remarks, “I’m proud to be here as your Lieutenant Governor but I’m even prouder to be here as a mom. A mom of three uniquely different children who learned differently. And I think parents need the power to make the choice.”
According to Representative Jason Elliott (R-Greenville), a longtime supporter of education choice, “These SAFE Grants are going to provide a jumpstart to what we’re trying to do in South Carolina to expand education opportunities for students across the board.”
Private school parent, Dexter Price, expressed how SAFE Grants will give underserved communities a chance for a better future for their children. “These kids are lucky to have a Governor that is willing to commit to their future in such a way, and these parents are fortunate to receive these funds. This is going to make a huge difference in the state of South Carolina especially in regard to bringing a ladder of upward mobility to communities that normally wouldn’t have one.”
Sharing his vision for South Carolina students, Governor McMaster stated, “We have to get ready for this great prosperity that can be ours, and not only can we—I believe—set an example for the country, but also for the world.”
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My South Carolina Education is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) educational organization. My SC Education seeks to build a strong coalition of diverse community organizations, policymakers, business and religious leaders, students, parents, and educators to dramatically expand educational opportunities for students across South Carolina.