Students from 40 high schools gathered in Columbia to celebrate plans for college, careers or the military after graduation, according to the S.C. Commission on Higher Education.
Based on a release from S.C. Commission on Higher Education.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — More than 2,000 seniors from 40 high schools across South Carolina gathered at the State House for the fifth annual College and Career Decision Day, according to the S.C. Commission on Higher Education.
The event recognizes students who have committed to college, careers or the military as their next step after graduation, according to the commission. It is modeled after athletic signing days, in which student-athletes announce college commitments, but brings similar recognition to all students regardless of their chosen path.
South Carolina Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver addressed the seniors during the event. “Some of you are going to go to college, some of you are going straight into the workforce, and some of you are going to serve in uniform. And every single path has our deepest respect. Every path has dignity and purpose, and every path that you all choose today is strengthening South Carolina and our nation,” Weaver said, according to the commission. “A great education is the front door of the American dream, and today you are stepping through that door.”
Commission President and Executive Director L. Jeffrey Perez shared a proclamation from Gov. Henry D. McMaster designating May as South Carolina College and Career Decision Month, according to the commission.
State Rep. Jermaine Johnson also spoke to the seniors, recounting his own path from childhood challenges to earning a doctorate degree, playing professional basketball and being elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives, according to the commission.
The event has grown since its inception and now averages more than 2,000 students annually, according to the commission, which said the celebration is intended to build momentum among younger students for continued education and workforce participation. South Carolina graduates more than 50,000 high school seniors each year, according to the commission.
Source: S.C. Commission on Higher Education original release.
