SC First Steps

Getting children ready for school

All In for South Carolina’s Young Children

South Carolina First Steps works collaboratively to ensure that all children start school ready to reach their highest potential, with engaged support from parents, caregivers, and communities. All In for South Carolina’s Young Children, our 2025–30 strategic plan, is a five-year roadmap for strengthening the system of individuals and organizations supporting children from birth through age five.

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The Latest with First Steps

Creating connections: a collaborative approach to early childhood education

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Melisa Johnson, Dean of Arts and Sciences at Northeastern Technical College, has seen the power of collaboration firsthand through the creation of Compass Point Preschool, an on-campus early learning center serving 3- and 4-year-olds through Chesterfield County First Steps. As both an administrator and parent, she offers unique insight into how collaboration between higher ed and early childhood systems benefits families.

Blog Post

HIS Preschool Learning Center: laying the foundation for success

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Ruth Buckmire didn’t plan on opening a preschool—her journey into early childhood education began with a deeply personal need. Over two decades ago, her teenage daughter became pregnant at just 16 years old. As Ruth recalled, “We looked for childcare, but it just wasn’t adequate for us.” That’s when Ruth decided to open her own childcare facility.

Blog Post

SC First Steps celebrates early childhood leaders earning national credential

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South Carolina First Steps hosted a special luncheon on Wednesday, August 27 to honor fifteen SC First Steps 4K directors who recently earned the Aim4Excellence National Director Credential, a prestigious professional development certification awarded through the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership.

Blog Post

South Carolina launches new community pathway for Parents as Teachers under the Family First Prevention Services Act

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The South Carolina Department of Social Services has received federal approval to expand Parents as Teachers under the Family First Prevention Services Act, a move that strengthens the state’s prevention efforts.

News

18 September

SC First Steps Board of Trustees and SC Early Childhood Advisory Council Meeting - September 2025

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The South Carolina First Steps Board of Trustees meetings are held quarterly and are 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.

27 November

Office Closure | Thanksgiving Day

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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.