South Carolina’s Department of Education sees the need to improve students’ knowledge and understanding of our natural and social resources. Officials believe that developing critical-thinking skills and environmental literacy, and promoting environmental stewardship and citizenship are vital to the state’s future.

The Foundation provided funding to support a statewide environmental education coordinator, who has helped to increase awareness and knowledge of environmental issues facing South Carolina among teachers and students in many public schools throughout the state.

The Foundation has also provided funding for South Carolina First Steps to Readiness ("First Steps"), a comprehensive, statewide education initiative designed to help prepare the state's children to reach first grade ready to succeed. First Steps was established in 1999 because nearly one in seven South Carolina children test "not ready" for first grade. Studies show repeatedly that children who arrive unprepared for first grade have difficulty catching up and succeeding throughout their school years. Collaboration provides the framework for First Steps. Parents, business and community leaders, teachers, local agencies, nonprofits and faith communities are encouraged to work together to improve school readiness.

For more information visit: www.ed.sc.gov/agency/offices/cso/enved