The Modjeska Simkins School kicked off its spring semester with an orientation session on Saturday, March 2, at GROW in Columbia. With 52 new students and 12 graduates auditing (a perk extended to everyone who completes the course), it is the largest class since the school launched in 2015.

Classes will meet on Monday nights through the end of June at 6:30 in-person in Columbia and in Charleston at the ILA Hall, as well as on Zoom. Sunday Deeper Dives are optional for students and open to the public. To receive notices of the public programs, sign up for the SC Progressive Network‘s email list HERE.

“The incoming class is impressive,” said Brett Bursey, who along with Dr. Robert Greene II will facilitate the spring session. “We look forward to getting to know them over the next few months.”

The youngest student this year is 16. The oldest is pushing 80. That rare inter-generational, inter-racial mingling enriches the diversity of the class and makes for deeper dialogue. Students learn from each other as well as from the instructors and guest presenters.

One student at a time, the school is building community and fueling South Carolina’s movement for social justice. We can’t wait to get started!

See pictures of the orientation in our photo album.