South Carolina gives you three options — district approval (Option 1) or one of two accountability-association options (Options 2 and 3) — and each is built around records you keep and progress you report:
What to keep
A plan book, diary, or record of the subjects and activities you teach (required under every option)
A portfolio of work samples across the required subjects (reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies; grades 7–12 add composition and literature)
A record of attendance — 180 days per year (Options 2 and 3: 4.5 instructional hours per day)
Semiannual progress reports on your child's academic progress
Standardized test or portfolio results(Option 1 district approval requires annual statewide testing; association options set their own annual test or portfolio review)
If you use an association, keep your records and reports through your accountability association
Your South Carolina filing timeline
Before the school yearEnroll with your school district (Option 1) or join a registered accountability association (Options 2 and 3).
All year longKeep your plan book/diary, work samples, and attendance record current as you teach.
Twice a yearPrepare the semiannual progress reports on your child's work.
End of the school yearComplete the annual standardized test (Option 1) or the assessment your association requires, and keep the results.