South Carolina Constitution Article XI - Public Education
South Carolina Constitution – Article XI: Public Education
Article XI of the South Carolina Constitution establishes the framework for public education in the state. It sets forth the state’s duty to provide a system of free public schools and outlines the powers and responsibilities of educational authorities, including the State Superintendent of Education and the General Assembly.
🔹 Summary of Key Sections in Article XI:
Section 1: System of Free Public Schools
The General Assembly must provide for the maintenance and support of a system of free public schools open to all children in the state.
The goal is to ensure that every child has the opportunity for a minimally adequate education.
Section 2: State Board of Education
The State Board of Education is established by law.
Members may be elected or appointed as determined by the General Assembly.
The Board oversees educational policy and administration across South Carolina.
Section 3: State Superintendent of Education
The State Superintendent of Education is an elected official.
The Superintendent serves as the chief executive officer of the State Department of Education.
Duties include implementing policies and managing public education programs.
Section 4: Public Aid to Religious or Private Schools Prohibited
No money raised for public schools may be used to support religious or private educational institutions.
Reinforces the separation of church and state in public education funding.
Section 5: Scholarships
Permits the General Assembly to provide scholarships and loans for higher education.
Programs must be established by general law.
Section 6: Education Finance
The General Assembly must maintain a fair system of funding public education.
Funding mechanisms must support equity and access throughout the state.
Key Themes:
Free and equal access to education for all children.
State responsibility to ensure an adequate education.
Separation of public funds and private/religious schools.
Oversight by an elected Superintendent and State Board of Education.
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