Columbia, South Carolina, September 5, 2025
News Summary
Recent SC READY test results reveal a concerning gap in student performance in South Carolina, with more elementary students meeting English expectations than math. While over 50% of students in each grade met English standards, math proficiency is significantly lower, particularly among eighth graders. Notable disparities exist among local districts, with some performing well above state averages, highlighting the need for systemic improvements in education. The state is aiming for 75% proficiency in math and reading by 2030, even as challenges persist in lower-income areas.
Columbia, South Carolina — Recent results from South Carolina’s SC READY test reveal a troubling disparity in student performance, with a larger percentage of elementary students meeting or exceeding expectations in English compared to math. The SC READY is a statewide assessment administered to students in grades 3 through 8, measuring proficiency in English language arts (ELA) and math.
According to the latest data, only a little more than half of the students across various grade levels demonstrated proficiency in math. Specifically, in the previous school year, just third and fourth graders achieved scores that met or exceeded expectations at 50% or above. Among these, third graders showed the highest performance with 56.3%. In stark contrast, eighth-grade math scores were the lowest, with only 32.4% of students meeting the benchmark.
In English, the results were more promising, with over 50% of students in every grade scoring at or above expectations. Fourth graders performed the best, achieving a rate of 63.5%. These disparities highlight significant challenges within the educational landscape of South Carolina, where math scores have persistently lagged behind those in English.
The performance of specific local districts varied significantly from the state averages. Notably, Richland One and Richland Two districts reported lower outcomes in both math and English compared to the state average. Conversely, Lexington School District One boasted better-than-average results, particularly excelling in English with over 70% of fourth and fifth graders meeting or exceeding expectations. In math, around 60% of third graders in Lexington County reached the requisite level.
Fort Mill School District emerged as a standout, scoring the highest in English across all grades and placing at the top for grades 4, 7, and 8 in math. Fort Mill has a history of achieving strong state performance across various assessments, establishing itself as a model for academic excellence in South Carolina. Furthermore, Clover School District ranked highest in the state for sixth-grade math, consistently securing positions in the top five for several grades and subjects.
There were also notable improvements in the Lancaster County School District, which achieved the sixth rank for both third-grade and fifth-grade math assessments. However, Chester County School District struggled, placing among the bottom 10 for eighth-grade math proficiency in the Rock Hill area.
On a broader scale, statewide reading scores saw a modest increase of 6 points, with 59.6% of students reading at or above their grade level. Math scores also improved, albeit slightly, with an increase of 1.5 points to 43.9%. Despite this progress, fewer than half of students are currently meeting grade-level expectations in math.
South Carolina education leaders expressed concern regarding the ongoing challenges in math performance, signaling a need for systemic improvements. The state has set a goal for 75% of students to achieve proficiency in both reading and math by the year 2030. Successful case studies, such as the marked improvements at J.C. Lynch Elementary, highlighted a 36% increase in reading scores and a 22% improvement in math, surpassing the 75% benchmark. This progress has been attributed to strategic adjustments in instruction and increased state funding for educational resources.
Lexington School District One’s achievements have been credited to effective classroom instruction coupled with strong family engagement. However, educators continue to point out persistent challenges faced by lower-income and rural areas, where teacher shortages remain a pressing issue, advocating for a greater allocation of resources and the introduction of online tutoring options to bridge the educational divide.
FAQ
What is the SC READY test?
The SC READY test is a statewide assessment for South Carolina students in grades 3 through 8, evaluating their proficiency in English language arts and math.
How did South Carolina students perform in English compared to math?
Students performed better in English, with over 50% meeting or exceeding expectations across all grades, while math scores were significantly lower, particularly in eighth grade.
Which school districts performed the best?
The Fort Mill School District achieved the highest scores in English and top results in math, while Lexington School District One also performed above the state average in both subjects.
What are the state’s goals for student proficiency by 2030?
South Carolina aims for 75% of students to be at or above grade level in both reading and math by the year 2030.
What challenges do educators face in lower-income areas?
Educators point to teacher shortages and the need for more resources, including online tutoring options, as significant challenges in delivering quality education in lower-income and rural regions.
| Grade Level | Percent Meeting Expectations in English | Percent Meeting Expectations in Math |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd Grade | 56.3% | 56.3% |
| 4th Grade | 63.5% | 50%+ |
| 5th Grade | 70%+ | Not specified |
| 6th Grade | Not specified | Ranked highest in Clover School District |
| 7th Grade | Not specified | Top scores in Fort Mill School District |
| 8th Grade | Not specified | 32.4% |
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: What Do Test Scores Tell Us About South Carolina Schools?
- SC Daily Gazette: Less Than Half of SC’s 3rd to 8th Graders Can Do Math on Grade Level
- The State: SC Test Scores Reveal Educational Disparities
- Wikipedia: Education in South Carolina
- Google Search: South Carolina Education Test Scores
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