The South Carolina Mathematics and Science Unit

In 1993, South Carolina leaders in business, education, and public policy came together and created the Statewide Systemic Initiative (SSI).  With the support of the National Science Foundation (NSF), the SSI was instrumental in leading schools through changes associated with the creation of mathematics and science curriculum standards and the implementation of the Palmetto Challenge Achievement Test (PACT).  Through the SSI, regional resource centers then known as “Hubs” were established so that all teachers would have quick and convenient access to substantive professional development, teaching resources, and instructional improvement expertise. Since the inception of the SSI, South Carolina has seen much improvement in student achievement in mathematics and science.  With the end of NSF funding in 2003, the SSI organization was integrated into the State Department of Education Office of Curriculum and Standards as the new Mathematics and Science Unit (MSU). 

The creation of the MSU was the result of restructuring the thirteen existinng SSI Hubs into eight mathematics and science regional centers: Anderson-Oconee-Pickens-Greenville with 2 sites; Upstate; North Central; Upper Savannah; Midlands with 2 sites; Central Savannah; Lowcountry with 3 sites; and Coastal-PeeDee with 2 sites.

Research suggests a major shift in the approaches to teaching practices has occurred with the implementation of the mathematics and science process and content standards.  The move away from skills-based curriculums to a more dynamic, student-centered approach involving constructivist principles and methodologies has impacted our thinking about teaching and learning mathematics and science. Teacher roles are changing.  Mathematics and science teachers need pedagogical content knowledge--knowledge about how to teach in mathematics and science.

To assist teachers in the understanding and development of the necessary skills and knowledge to meet new pedagogical challenges essential to the success of teaching and learning, the MSU offers the following signature professional development opportunities:

• K-5 Mathematics and Science Coaching Initiative (MSCI)
• Mathematics Professional Development Institute (MPDI)
• Science Professional Development Institute (SPDI)
• Creating Excellence in Elementary and Middle Mathematics (CEEMM)
• SC Algebra Classroom
• Physical Science Companion

For more information about the MSU, please visit:

MSU Vision MSU Mission MSU Theory of Action