We’re hiring a Senior Director of 4K Operations at SC First Steps! Looking to lead high-impact operations that directly shape early childhood education across South Carolina? Reporting to the Chief of Early Learning, this position will oversee operational functions for a $50M+ state program supporting nearly 350 4K sites, thousands of families and early educators statewide. What you’ll do: +Drive organizational effectiveness from site recruitment and retention, initial contracting and classroom material logistics to ongoing performance monitoring, family engagement and contract renewal. +Lead the creation and continuous improvement of internal standard operating procedures and public-facing operational guidelines aligned with the agency's strategic vision. +Act as the high-level point of contact for inclusion practices, behavioral intervention resources and 4K site/family support. +Analyze operational data and performance trends to lead continuous quality improvement strategies across the statewide network of 4K sites. Apply now or tag an operational leader in your network who would be a great fit! bit.ly/4i8PmE2

Today is Give Like Dolly Day! 9-to-5 ⏰🎶 You can help even more children grow up with the joy of books and reading by designating your #GiveLikeDolly donation to a First Steps Local Partnership near you! gcld.co/ZyGz4lg

If you’re a strategic leader who enjoys turning vision into strong systems, developing people, and building the capacity of local partners to serve their communities, we’d love to hear from you. Here's what you'll do: Lead Operations & Teams: Oversee program and compliance staff to ensure statewide alignment, consistency, and adherence to statutory mandates. Manage Grants & Compliance: Lead the annual comprehensive grant application, award review, and contract monitoring processes. Provide Strategic Support: Guide local leadership through operational transitions, strategic planning, community needs assessments, and data reporting. Build Capacity: Design and deliver continuous training for Executive Directors, board members, and staff via live sessions and our Learning Management System (LMS). Ready to elevate local leadership and strengthen communities across the state? Apply today or tag a leader in your network! bit.ly/4gXeZHq

Happy International Literacy Day! Today, we celebrate the power of reading and education to transform lives across the globe. #InternationalLiteracyDay

Happy Labor Day! In observance of this day, the offices at South Carolina First Steps will be closed on September 7th. We will reopen for regular business hours on September 8th. #HappyLaborDay

First Steps 4K Eligibility is Expanded! Families with children who will be 4 on or before Sept. 1, 2026, with family income(s) below 300% FPL are now eligible for participation in First Steps 4K. For example, a family of four making $99,000 or less annually now qualifies. First Steps 4K provides high quality, FREE preschool in private childcare, charter schools, and private schools. Check out Free4KSC.org for open slots near you! NOTE: Parents who qualify under expanded eligibility (between 185% and 300% federal poverty level) do NOT qualify for 4K+ Sibling Scholarships.

Parents with children who will be 4 on or before Sept. 1, 2026 with family income(s) between 185% and 300% FPL are now eligible for participation in First Steps 4K. For example, a family of four making $99,000 annually or less now qualifies. First Steps 4K provides high quality, FREE preschool in private child care, charter schools, and private schools. Check out Free4KSC.org for open slots near you! NOTE: Parents who qualify under expanded eligibility do NOT qualify for 4K+ Sibling Scholarships.

Taking the first steps with a friend is the best way to start any adventure. From providing guidance and mentorship to becoming a trusted friend, we celebrate those who go above and beyond in supporting families and young children. Thank you for caring so deeply! #NationalFrienshipDay

Getting ready for kindergarten? Download our free Kindergarten Readiness Guide in English or Spanish. bit.ly/4wXJWSd