As the school year begins, here are some updates of interest.
Drinking Water in Schools
In recent years, there has been increased attention to lead in drinking water. Although lead is found throughout the environment, lead can accumulate in the body over time and cause health problems if inhaled or swallowed. As such, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) are acting to address drinking water quality in schools.
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State Funding for School Resource Officers
For Fiscal Year 2018–19, the General Assembly appropriated $2 million in the General Fund for school resource officers (SROs). These funds are intended to increase the number of SROs serving in schools, which will help ensure the safety of all students and staff.
 
Office of Special Education: Alternative Pathway
In August 2018, beginning with the ninth grade class, all South Carolina school districts will offer appropriate students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) the opportunity to earn a state-recognized high school credential.
In August 2018, beginning with the ninth grade class, all South Carolina school districts will offer appropriate students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) the opportunity to earn a state-recognized high school credential.
South Carolina has roughly 100,000 students with disabilities served by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), of which the majority are able to earn a state high school diploma. Given the varying levels of student achievement, some students are unable to complete this required high school coursework. As a result, there is a need to provide an alternative option for students with disabilities to demonstrate their ability to transition into the work community. The uniform state-recognized South Carolina High School Credential will be aligned with the State’s Profile of the South Carolina Graduate and to a newly created course of study for these students with disabilities whose Individualized Education Program (IEP) team determines this course of study is appropriate.
The purpose of the SC High School Credential is to provide equitable job-readiness opportunities for these students throughout the state, ensure they have evidence of employability skills, and honor the work they have undertaken in our public schools
For more information on credentialing, statutes and regulations, visit the SC Department of Education website.