Introduction

In February 2022, the South Carolina Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC) released For Our Future: South Carolina’s Birth through Five Plan. This strategic plan serves as a roadmap for optimizing the state’s early childhood system and working towards a shared vision of success for every child. The plan represents the collaboration of numerous state agencies, input from dozens of leaders, and the voices of thousands of parents and caregivers.

As we mark the first year of the plan’s implementation, the ECAC is pleased to offer a report on our progress and outlook. This yearly progress report is a crucial part of our dedication to maintaining focus on the needs of young children and their families. Additionally, it offers us an opportunity to improve and update the plan, ensuring that it remains an adaptable and evolving tool that accurately reflects the current strengths and needs of our state.

This report is structured into three main sections. The first section highlights key findings from an assessment of early childhood needs in South Carolina, focusing on early childhood programs and services. In the second section, we celebrate recent successes for young children, families, and the early childhood system as a whole. Finally, the third section outlines the priorities and shared accountability of the ECAC for the upcoming year. Through this report, we reaffirm our commitment to enhancing the lives of South Carolina’s youngest citizens and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.