South Carolina Office of Personalized Learning

Program Description:  

The state of South Carolina’s Office of Personalized Learning developed a personalized, competency-based learning curriculum to introduce into school districts, beginning in 2017. This approach to learning provides individualized learning opportunities to students, leading to mastery of skills, knowledge, and characteristics. In competency-based learning, the learning is centered around the students who collaborate together and provide feedback to one another, with the teacher in a facilitator role. This set-up is designed to put the student in the driver’s seat and make them true partners in their own learning.  

Impact:  

As part of the personalized, competency-based learning structure, the state has developed competencies which are designed to support students in developing both academic and non-academic skills. Competencies are focused on durable skill development such as learning independently, navigating conflict, building networks, and engaging as a responsible citizen. The competencies are designed to exist on a continuum, building upon each skill through various stages of learning. The competencies will also provide an opportunity for assessment, goal setting, and feedback, helping teachers and students better prepare for success in the classroom.  

Population Served:  

The South Carolina Department of Education has supported over 130 pilot schools in transitioning to competency-based learning, but participation is voluntary.  

Learn more here.

Page last updated in August 2026