#United States #Columbia #School Choice Week #USC Alumni Center #Charleston RISE

South Carolina Students Rally for School Choice Week

On January 30, 2025, South Carolina will be buzzing with energy as students come together to celebrate School Choice Week at the Statehouse in Columbia. Organized by Charleston RISE, this event is designed not only to showcase the talents of students across the state but also to advocate for educational choice.

Event Details

The celebration will kick off at 9:00 AM at the University of South Carolina Alumni Center, where a talent showcase featuring student performances is set to enthrall attendees. Following the showcase, at approximately 10:45 AM, everyone will march from the Alumni Center to the South Carolina Statehouse. This event is open to the public, inviting families, educators, and supporters of educational equity to join in.

Governor Henry McMaster has officially proclaimed January 26 through February 1 as School Choice Week in South Carolina. This proclamation underscores the significance of educational options in shaping a brighter future for the state's youth. “School choice is about empowering families and giving every child the opportunity to succeed in the environment that fits them,” stated Cheryl Cromwell, the executive director of Charleston RISE and the event organizer.

A Celebration of Choices

National School Choice Week is celebrated nationwide, with over 27,000 events across all 50 states aimed at raising awareness about the variety of educational options available, which include traditional public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, private schools, online education, and homeschooling. This year, South Carolina will have 470 celebrations, showcasing the commitment to educational diversity and equity.

The march and celebration not only highlight the achievements of students but also serve as a platform for families to share their experiences. Among the anticipated attendees are several students and families who have benefited from school choice options, with heartfelt speeches planned throughout the day.

Join the Movement

The USC Alumni Center, located at 900 Senate St, Columbia, SC 29201, will be the starting point, and the march will conclude at the steps of the Statehouse at 100 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29208. Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP for the event, which promises to be a fun and empowering day celebrating educational freedom.

For more information, visit schoolchoiceweek.com/events/2025-south-carolina-capitol-celebration.

Charleston RISE is a grassroots organization dedicated to empowering families and advocating for equitable educational opportunities for all children. Advancing educational choice speaks volumes about the future, as it shapes a generation of students ready to fulfill their dreams.

Being part of School Choice Week not only allows individuals to promote diverse educational options but also helps raise awareness and fosters a community focused on the well-being and success of every student in South Carolina. This celebration is a collective effort to make educational equity a reality, one talent at a time.