South Carolina School Enrollment Requirements
Under South Carolina state law, children must be six years old on or before September 1 to enter first grade. An exception is made for children who have completed first grade in another state that has a different age requirement. To enter kindergarten, children must be five years old on or before September 1. Only children who have completed kindergarten in another state that has a different age requirement are exempt. Parents who do not enroll their children in a public or private kindergarten are required by law to sign a waiver to that effect.
All students are required to be immunized. Students must obtain a certificate of immunization prior to enrolling in school. This certificate must be signed by an individual licensed to practice medicine, surgery, or osteopathy, or his/her authorized representative. The S.C. Certificate of Immunization form must be used. A valid birth certificate is required by the state at the time of enrollment for kindergarten and first grade.
The Exit Exam must be passed in order for a student to receive a high school diploma in South Carolina. It tests three basic skills: reading, writing, and math. The exam is given in the Spring to tenth graders for their first try. Students who do not pass are enrolled in special classes to teach them the skills they lack. The test is also given in the 11th grade and twice in the 12th grade. Your child's education plays a very important role in a successful relocation. Give strong consideration to pupil/teacher ratios. A low ratio allows teachers the chance to know the students individually and assists in determining the student's strengths and weaknesses. Other factors to consider are strong principal leadership, teachers' experience, and successful programs. All of these contribute to a positive academic experience.
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