Transforming Education & Workforce in South Carolina
Empowering every student to thrive in a dynamic workforce.
WCOE Overview
The South Carolina Public Charter School District has embarked on a journey to establish Workforce Centers of Excellence (WCOE), redefining education and preparing our students for the careers of today and tomorrow. Schools certified as WCOE will provide a solid educational foundation, combined with a practical, hands-on approach to learning, connecting the theoretical with real-world application. Our WCOE are pioneering a new path, one that bridges the gap between traditional learning and the skills demanded by the ever-evolving job market.
Vision
Empowering every student to thrive in a dynamic workforce.
Mission
Bridging education and employment for a prosperous future.
Motto
Redefining education. Shaping South Carolina’s workforce.
Program Features
Location
In addition to existing PCSD school sites, WCOE aims to be strategically located at or near South Carolina’s 16 technical colleges and/or co-located on sites such as business, industry, and military bases.
Educational Pathway
WCOE will allow students to earn a South Carolina high school diploma along with dual college credits, an associate’s degree, industry certifications, credentials, or apprenticeships upon graduation. School programming includes:
‣ Industry-Aligned Curriculum: Curricula, core courses, and electives aligned to local business and industry needs, including hard and soft skills and technical skills.
‣ Relevant Instructional Delivery: Content delivery methods aligned to business and industry.
‣ Hands-On Learning: Students engage in experiential educational opportunities in collaboration with local industry partners.
‣ Job Readiness: The goal is for students to earn a high school diploma and secure workforce experience and/or certifications upon graduation, creating college, career, and military-ready students.
Goals & Objectives
Fill the Workforce Gap
These innovative charter schools connect education and workforce needs by providing industries with a local, skilled, and employment-ready workforce.
Boost Economic Growth
By preparing students for careers aligned with local industry demands, these WCOEs contribute to economic growth, attracting businesses to the state and enhancing the quality of life for communities.
Reduce Unemployment
Graduates are job-ready, reducing unemployment rates and providing individuals with the opportunity for career advancement.
Amplify Educational Choice
These centers exemplify how public charter schools innovate and adapt to meet the needs of students and businesses.
WCOE Certification Criteria for Existing PCSD Schools
- Employ or contract with a dedicated career specialist.
- Enter a written partnership with local business, industry, or chamber of commerce.
- Provide strategic opportunities for students to achieve workforce-related skills, credits, certifications or dual enrollment.
- Achieve positive student outcomes evidenced by the school’s AFO Index score and substantial compliance with the school’s charter.
- Maintain a healthy financial position as measured by each school’s annual audit.
- Provide WCOE programming to all students.
- Facilitate ASVAB testing and reports in Epicenter at least annually.
WCOE Certification Participation Process
Complete a WCOE Application
Participate in WCOE Training & Meetings
Develop a PCSD Approved Plan to Meet All WCOE Criteria
Submit Evidence That All Required WCOE Criteria are Met
Ready to prepare students for real‑world careers?
Reach out today to find out how WCOE prepares students for success in college, careers, and beyond.
The Workforce Centers of Excellence is an initiative pioneered by the South Carolina Public Charter School District. The PCSD authorizes, champions, and supports the creation and advancement of innovative K-12 public charter schools that provide access to academic opportunities for every student in South Carolina to reach their fullest potential.
