State Supreme Court reluctant to intervene on education issue

Attorneys representing eight school districts said Wednesday that the students are being denied their constitutional right to an education meeting minimum standards, and the state Supreme Court should act to remedy the situation.

At issue was whether the state is providing a constitutionally mandated opportunity for a "minimally adequate" education.

Officials from Dillon 2, Florence 4, Orangeburg 3, Hampton 2, Jasper, Allendale, Marion 7, and Abbeville school districts appeared at Wednesday's hearing.

Although sympathetic, several justices questions whether that is their role.

"Are we supposed to be a glorified school board?" Justice Donald Beatty asked.

Chief Justice Jean Toal said public education is a matter for the legislature and the governor. She questioned whether the SC should determine whether an opportunity for a minimally adequate education ahs be en provided.

"That turns the constitution on its head," she said.

Plaintiff's attorney Stephen Morrison said the eight school districts systematically failed to provide an opportunity for an education. He said a lower court ruling that addressed the problem by mandating an early childhood intervention program was not enough. More funds should be provided for better schools and teachers, he said.

Read more in tomorrow's editions of The Post and Courier.