The S.C. Public Charter School District (SCPCSD) was created through the South Carolina Charter School Act, passed by the S.C. General Assembly in 2005. The legislation created a legitimate avenue for parents, teachers, and community members to take responsible risks and create new, innovative, and more flexible ways of educating children within the public school system. The goal of charter schools is to encourage academic excellence, educational improvement, and cultural diversity in South Carolina. After one year of planning and organizing, the SCPCSD had five charter schools open under its auspices in August 2008. In the 2009-10 school year, seven schools are operating in the district, with four more approved to open in 2010. Enrollment doubled from the first year of operation to the second: from 2,500 students to over 5,000. Enrollment is expected to double again in 2010, which would make the SCPCSD one of the largest districts in the state.
SCPCSD's mission is to improve student learning and increase learning opportunities in South Carolina through the creation of innovative, high-quality charter schools. Ultimately, we strive to assist South Carolina in achieving academic excellence.