SC H5259

CERRA (Center for Educator Recruitment, Retention, and Advancement) was established in 1985 to address South Carolina's teacher shortage and celebrates its 40th anniversary with this resolution

The Teacher Cadets program expanded from 4 pilot high schools to 163 high schools across 70 of South Carolina's 75 school districts, with a companion Pro Team program now in 57 middle schools

The South Carolina Teaching Fellows Program, founded in 1999, provides fellowships to over 800 college students at 14 institutions, achieving an 80% graduation rate and producing approximately 3,000 classroom teachers

CERRA provides mentor training, facilitates National Board Certification, hosts the South Carolina Teacher Forum, authors the annual Supply and Demand Report, and maintains the statewide Online Educator Employment System

March 24, 2026 is proclaimed as "CERRA Recognition and Celebration Day" in South Carolina