SC First Steps

Getting children ready for school

Every Child Ready

South Carolina First Steps works collaboratively to ensure that all children start school ready to reach their highest potential with engaged support from their parents, caregivers, and communities. Every Child Ready, our 2020-25 strategic plan, is a five-year road map for achieving our mission and moving toward our vision of success for every child.

See the Plan

The Latest with First Steps

South Carolina First Steps announces Ann Vandervliet as new executive director

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South Carolina First Steps, the state’s public-private partnership for early childhood services, announced today that Ann Vandervliet has been named as its new executive director.

Press Release

Fall 2023 South Carolina Kindergarten Readiness Assessment Results

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At the beginning of the 2023-24 school year, the KRA was administered to 53,354 incoming kindergartners across South Carolina, according to the South Carolina Education Oversight Committee.

Fact Sheet

First Steps 4K Leader Spotlight: Deon Cooper, EduScholars Learning Center

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As the owner and director of EduScholars Learning Center in Lake City, SC, Deon Cooper is dedicated to fostering a supportive and positive environment for his staff and students. He aims to empower every child to become a lifelong learner, excelling in all aspects of their lives. This month, we recognize Deon Cooper as a First Steps 4K Leader for his exceptional contributions to early childhood education.

Blog Post

Risk Factors Affecting School Readiness

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Certain experiences or conditions are associated with educational disadvantage upon entry into kindergarten. The South Carolina First Steps Board of Trustees has identified a set of risk factors as those most likely to affect school readiness.

Print Resource

17 October

SC First Steps Board of Trustees and SC Early Childhood Advisory Council Meeting - October 2024

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The South Carolina First Steps Board of Trustees meetings are every other month followed immediately by the South Carolina Early Childhood Advisory Council convenings.

11 November

Office Closure | Veterans Day

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South Carolina First Steps office is closed in observance of the state holiday.

29 November

Office Closure | Day After Thanksgiving

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South Carolina First Steps office is closed in observance of the state holiday.

Find the SC First Steps Local Partnership Near You

Wherever you are in South Carolina, there's a local partnership nearby. Contact your local partnership to find out how we can help you and your family get connected to the resources you need.