On this episode of Kids First, Keven Cohen is joined by Dr. Perry Mills from the South Carolina Public Charter School District and Dr. James Thompson, Workforce Development Manager at the S.C. Commission on Higher Education, for a timely discussion on how South Carolina can better prepare students for the jobs of today and tomorrow. Dr. Thompson shares how his statewide role connects K12 schools, higher education, and industry partners so students can move seamlessly from classrooms into high-demand careers in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and public safety.

The conversation digs into why workforce development must start well before high school, with early career exploration, apprenticeships, internships, and even virtual reality experiences that help students "get their hands dirty" while building essential soft skills. Keven, Dr. Mills, and Dr. Thompson also address lingering social skill gaps from the COVID years and explain how schools, families, and employers can work together so that more South Carolina students graduate truly career and college ready.

🔗 Learn more: https://che.sc.gov/

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On this episode of Kids First on 100.7 The Point, Keven Cohen is joined by Richard Shepard, high school principal of York Preparatory Academy in Rock Hill. Richard shares how York Prep, a K–12 public charter school, continues to thrive through teamwork, strong family engagement, and an unwavering focus on student success. He discusses the school's "Futures in Focus" program, which connects students with colleges, career counselors, and local businesses to prepare them for life beyond the classroom.

The conversation highlights York Prep's culture of high expectations, its flexibility to make real-time improvements, and its commitment to investing in teachers and students alike. Richard and Keven also touch on York Prep's national recognition, its vibrant programs that include athletics and performing arts, and the school's upcoming appearance in Washington, D.C.'s 250th Memorial Day Parade.

🔗 Learn more: https://www.yorkprepsc.org/

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On this episode of Kids First Radio on 100.7 The Point, Keven Cohen and Superintendent Chris Neeley welcome Dr. Keith Bailey, founder and executive director of Pee Dee Math, Science and Technology Academy in Bishopville. Dr. Bailey shares the school's journey from humble beginnings on a gravel road to becoming a thriving K–12 community that champions innovation through a problem-based learning model tailored to real-world challenges.

The conversation celebrates the opening of PDMSTA's brand-new facility. It honors the legacy of Dr. Bailey's late mother, whose vision laid the foundation for educational opportunity in rural Lee County. Together, the guests discuss how collaboration, community pride, and dedicated educators are building hope and academic excellence for local students.

🔗 Learn more: https://www.pdmsta.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.