From the early days of our nation, public education has played a vital role in American democratic society. In addition to preparing young people for productive work and fulfilling lives, public education has also been expected to accomplish certain collective missions aimed at promoting the common good. These include, among others, preparing youth to become responsible citizens, forging a common culture from a nation of immigrants, and reducing inequalities in American society.
There is a concerted national effort by some organizations to dismantle the public school systems in America by underfunding them, by undermining school teachers themselves, and by inserting political and religious beliefs into what is supposed to be a secular system of government founded on democratic principles. According to U.S. News & World Report, South Carolina ranks 42nd in the nation for its education system. This means that students in the state are not given access to quality education opportunities. As a result, they may not be able to get good jobs and support themselves financially. Additionally, students in South Carolina are more likely to drop out of high school than students in other states.
Join us for a panel discussion on the theme “Public education as a building block of democracy.” Our panel will be moderated by SHL board member and South Carolina State Director for American Atheists, Bonnie Cleaveland, and our panelists will be Dr. Carol Tempel from the Charleston County School District Board of Trustees, ReZsaun Lewis from Lowcountry Youth Services, and Allan Morris from SHL and Defense of Democracy. In addition to hearing from our panelists, all attendees will be invited to participate in the discussion.
4 pm on Sunday, August 20, 2023 at Gage Hall, 4 Archdale St, Charleston, SC.