The Charleston County Community Education Program is co-sponsored by the Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission (PRC) and Charleston County Schools.  PRC funds 70% of Community School Directors salaries, Charleston County Schools provides the facilities.  PRC employs a full time Community Education Coordinator to provide administrative assistance to the Community Schools.  PRC also employs full-time staff members to assist the Community Schools in rural areas, especially in the area of sports. 

Remaining revenues needed to support all aspects of program operation are generated through program user fees.  Many Community Schools offer financial contributions to schools for homework assistance, tutoring programs, and other school needs.  The Community Education Program maximizes tax dollar investment in current school facilities by extending productive use of the buildings after regular hours.

Every high school in Charleston County houses a Community School Program, though the scope of Community Education is not limited to high schools. Middle and elementary schools are also utilized in delivering program services to the community. In 2002, all extended day programs were consolidated under one name: Kaleidoscope.  Today, Kaleidoscope programs are offered in 34 elementary schools. Kaleidoscope programs serve nearly four thousand children daily.   

Another unique feature is the geographic scope of the Charleston County School District.  It encompasses over 90 square miles in area.  Community Schools serve the entire area by utilizing a “feeder” system of high schools, middle, and elementary schools to deliver services.

CE HOME