The Riley Institute’s Center for Education Policy and Leadership supports and recognizes highly effective and innovative approaches to public education that drive better and more equitable outcomes for all the people of South Carolina and beyond.

Our work touches five primary focus areas: project-based learning, personalized competency-based learning, public school Montessori, afterschool and summer learning, and civic education in public schools. In addition, the Institute’s research group undertakes in-depth research and evaluation to promote evidence-supported education practices in public schools.

Each year, the Institute recognizes an outstanding evidence-based public education initiative in the state with its Dick and Tunky Riley WhatWorksSouthCarolina Award.

"A People's Movement" Takes a Fresh Look at EIA

"A People's Movement" Takes a Fresh Look at EIA

The Riley Institute has published a book about the 1984 South Carolina Education Improvement Act (EIA), considered to be one of Dicky Riley's greatest achievements as governor of South Carolina.

Shaping Afterschool Leaders

Shaping Afterschool Leaders

Two Riley Institute fellowships teach afterschool professionals across the state and nation how to advance programming through public policy and capacity building.

WhatWorksSC Awards & Clearinghouse

WhatWorksSC Awards & Clearinghouse

We're on a mission to honor highly effective programs improving South Carolina public schools and share key strategies to their success.

Fostering Civic Leadership

Fostering Civic Leadership

At a time when we critically need to strengthen American democracy, our programs encourage civic participation among young people.