About

Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this phenomenal new initiative. South Carolina is one of the fastest growing states in the nation, and our vision is to make Catholic education accessible across the entire Palmetto State. This initiative is exciting and necessary! 

In an age when Catholic schools in several areas of the country are closing, the Diocese of Charleston is well equipped to respond to the Great Commission to go forth and make disciples of all nations by opening 20 Catholic preschools in 2025. Our primary mission remains to spread the Gospel. 

First Steps 4K South Carolina is helping us to do that by providing Catholic education to preschool children, including our families and those most in need. Catholic schools are often the only opportunity for economically underserved, disadvantaged and dual-language learners to receive an excellent education that speaks to and works toward the development of the whole person.

First Steps 4K offers free, full day four-year-old kindergarten to qualifying children in South Carolina. The program partners with more than 250 licensed child care centers and nonpublic schools across the state, making it easy for families to find a high-quality program to meet their needs.

The Diocese of Charleston is excited to open Holy Angels Academies in tandem with First Steps. Children are welcome regardless of their religious affiliation.