H.4792 would create the Virtual Early Learning Pilot Program to provide literacy and numeracy instruction and assessment for preschool children in low income households. The program would be provided via the internet and would be administered by an educational technology provider selected by the State Board of Education through a request for proposals process.

There is no evidence the numerous state and federal preschool programs that are already available in South Carolina produce any benefits that last through a student’s entire primary education. Legislators should be considering scaling back the state’s costly and ineffective preschool programs, not expanding them further.

By South Carolina Policy Council

Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.