In this week's episode, PSTA Podcast Host, Craig King chats with PSTA Director of Governmental Affairs, Patrick Kelly about a slew of education bills making their way through the General Assembly (H. 4756: SC Student Physical Privacy Act, H. 4757: Parental Rights Act, and 4762. Volunteer School Chaplain/Ten Commandments). Additionally, we discuss two bills relating to the "other duties as assigned" portion of teacher contracts (H. 3210) and grade floor policies (H. 4306 & S. 537). We conclude our conversation with an update on the SC State Budget and the Aid to Classrooms Forumla report that is forthcoming. Please listen, share, and download this episode. #thepstapodcast #pstateach #pstaadvocates

Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is provided by PSTA for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not an offer to represent you and does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should consult an attorney for advice on your particular situation as circumstances can vary from case to case.

In this episode, PSTA Podcast Host, Craig King sits down with PSTA General Counsel, Shealy Reibold to discuss the legal and ethical considerations educators should keep in mind in today's digital landscape. The conversation explores the risks associated with social media use, how public posts can have unintended consequences, and what educators need to know about the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). We also examine common ethical pitfalls and offer practical guidance to help educators protect themselves while maintaining professionalism and trust. Listen, share, and download! #thepstapodcast #pstateach #theethicaleducator

In Part 2, STAR Teachers Kate Atkins (Charleston), Edna Rodriguez (Florence 3), David Goff (Lexington 2), and Cheryl Woodard (Lancaster) share their wonderful STAR experience. If you know a veteran teacher in South Carolina, encourage them to apply to STAR by visiting www.palmettoteachers.org. #thepstapodcast #pstateach #pstaweek2025

The Fall 2025 STAR Seminar Interviews were so spectacular, we had to make it two parts. In part 1, PSTA Founder, Dr. Elizabeth Gressette shares why STAR is such an important program for South Carolina teachers. We also hear from STAR teachers, Melanie Painter (Spartanburg 3), Rachel Pinckney (SC Public Charter District) Jalavender Clowney (Rock Hill), and Katie Brasche (Lexington 1) share their transformative STAR experience. If you know a veteran teacher in South Carolina, encourage them to apply for STAR by visiting www.palmettoteachers.org. #thepstapodcast #pstateach #STAR #pstaweek2025

In this special episode of The PSTA Podcast, host Craig King sits down with Patrick Kelly, PSTA Director of Governmental Affairs, to discuss the launch of the 2026 PSTA F.O.C.U.S. Policy Agenda. Mr. Kelly breaks down the four key priorities of the agenda including, persistently disruptive/dangerous student behaviors, compensation, protecting educator time, and safety and security. He also shares new additions to this year's agenda, reflecting feedback from PSTA members across the state. To access the full policy agenda, visit www.palmettoteachers.org. #thepstapodcast #pstateach #2026policyagenda #advocacy

Season 4 of The PSTA Podcast kicks off with a powerful conversation featuring Dr. John Dozier, President of Columbia College, and Dr. Tracy West, Dean of the School of Education at Columbia College. Our host, Craig King facilitated a captivating conversation about Columbia College's impact, growth, and its long-standing partnership with PSTA. #thepstapodcast #pstateach #columbiacollege #koalas #linkinbio

In this episode, PSTA Podcast Host Craig King chats with PSTA Director of Governmental Affairs, Patrick Kelly about the South Carolina State Budget (salary schedule, funding formula, new provisos), the Educator Assistance Act implementation (salary/contracts, certificate renewal, retirees), and the Work Experience Credit implementation. Please listen, download, and SHARE! For more information on joining PSTA, please visit linktr.ee/palmettoteachers. #thepstapodcast #pstaadvocates #pstateach

With only 3 days left in the 2025 legislative session, PSTA Podcast Host, Craig King chats with Patrick Kelly about "Pimento Cheese", the Educator Assistance Act (H. 3196), Work Experience Credit (S. 78), Health Insurance Premium, other education related bills, and much more! If you attended a Legislative Hill Day during the 2025 Legislative Session, please visit linktr.ee/palmettoteachers and fill out the survey by May 23rd! 5 lucky winners will receive an Amazon Gift Card. Please download, listen, and SHARE with your education friends. #thepstapodcast #educatorassistanceact #pstaadvocates #pstateach