About Palmetto Unified School District
Our History
Palmetto Unified School District (PUSD) was established by the South Carolina General Assembly legislative mandate in 1981 (SC Statute 24-25-10). Strategically placed within the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC), PUSD was created to ensure that incarcerated participants have direct access to educational credit toward a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Today, PUSD operates twelve (12) high schools serving students ages 17–21 and nine (9) Adult Education programs, providing a vital bridge to successful community reentry.
Our Vision
Palmetto Unified School District educates and empowers participants to become employable self-sufficient citizens.
Our Mission
Palmetto Unified School District and the South Carolina Department of Corrections will provide students with relevant academic courses, highly effective career-related vocational programs, and necessary life skills to make a positive impact in society.
Beliefs & Principles
Beliefs
- Learning Is Lifelong
- Education Reduces Crime
- Together Everyone Accomplishes More
- People Deserve A Second Chance
- All Students Are Capable of Learning
- Participation in education programs increases pro-social behavior
- Learning Is a Shared Responsibility
Principles
- Set clear and appropriate expectations for staff and students
- Maintain safe and orderly environments for all
- Consistently monitor student progress
- Cultivate positive stakeholder relationships
- Plan and use differentiated instruction
- Use teacher assistants
- Integrate and proficiently use technology
The Impact of Correctional Education
Education is a critical factor in successful reentry. Research from the RAND Corporation highlights the profound value of our work, finding that inmates who participate in correctional education programs are 28% less likely to recidivate.
“Every dollar invested in correctional education saves nearly four to five dollars in reincarceration costs over three years.” ~ RAND Corporation