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Talent Search program grant strengthens connection between CCSD students and postsecondary opportunities available close to home

Students at four Charleston County School District (CCSD) schools will benefit from a program that expands opportunities to prepare for and pursue postsecondary education, workforce training, and careers. CCSD and Trident Technical College (TTC) are partnering to facilitate a Talent Search program grant funded through the U.S. Department of Education. The Talent Search program is designed to identify students from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in postsecondary education and provide them with the support, information, and resources needed to reach their goals.

The $490,000 grant is anticipated to serve 980 students annually in the Tri-County area. Participating Charleston County schools include Baptist Hill Middle and High, Burke High, Military Magnet Middle and High, and Simmons-Pinckney Middle Schools, where students will have the additional supports they need to complete high school and go on to college, apprenticeships, or other postsecondary credential programs. Services include academic support, financial aid guidance, and career counseling. 

“CCSD and Trident Technical College share a long history of working collaboratively to expand educational and career preparation opportunities for students,” said CCSD Superintendent Anita Huggins. “Our partnership reflects our mutual commitment to helping students achieve their academic and career goals through meaningful pathways to postsecondary success. We are confident that the Talent Search program will have a transformative impact on the lives of our students and their families. We look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to advance educational opportunities in our region.”

Through the partnership, CCSD and TTC will work together to provide participating students with personalized academic, financial, college, and career guidance. The program will also broaden students’ awareness of the many pathways available after high school, including traditional college programs, career and technical education, industry-recognized credentials, Registered Apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, and other work-based learning opportunities.

The program also emphasizes pathways leading to high-demand careers in skilled trades, healthcare, manufacturing, information technology, shipbuilding, and other fields critical to the region’s workforce.

The Talent Search program is a five-year initiative designed to support student success from secondary school through postsecondary education. Nationally, the program aims to increase secondary school persistence and graduation, as well as postsecondary enrollment and completion among participating students.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to student success and economic opportunity,” said Vicky Wood, President of Trident Technical College. “Together, CCSD and Trident Technical College are helping students prepare for local high-skilled, high-wage jobs that, in turn, support our economy and strengthen our community.” 

“We recognize the significant value that the Talent Search program will bring to our schools,” Huggins added. “By providing academic, career, and financial counseling as well as assistance with college applications, particularly for students who are first-generation or from low-income backgrounds, 

Talent Search aligns seamlessly with our district’s aim to ensure every student has access to the resources and support needed for postsecondary and career success.”