The Palmetto Education Summit 2026

Join us for an educator-focused session on how WIN Learning’s Career Readiness Solutions are helping strengthen CTE programs and drive student success. Hear how schools and programs across South Carolina are using WIN’s Academic and Soft Skills courseware and credentials to build employability skills, increase student confidence, and support stronger placement, progression, and retention within CTE pathways. During this session, we’ll highlight implementation strategies from educators and workforce professionals across the state. You’ll see how WIN is integrated into daily instruction, career exploration, and program design—along with key insights on the measurable impact on both students and employers. Whether you’re new to WIN or looking to enhance your current implementation, you’ll leave with practical strategies, fresh ideas, and actionable insights you can immediately apply in your classroom or program.

Across rural South Carolina, many students lack access to high-quality enrichment and career exposure during the critical hours after school. Yet research shows the hours immediately following the school day are pivotal for learning, safety, and long-term development.
For the past decade, the Original Six Foundation has partnered with public schools across South Carolina to deliver no-cost, educator-led afterschool programming for students in rural and under-resourced communities. What began as a small pilot has grown into a collaborative model serving more than 1,000 students annually across 13 schools, combining academic support, hands-on STEAM learning, and meaningful career exploration opportunities.
The session will begin with Original Six Foundation Executive Director Kara Gormley Meador, Program Director Nick Washington, and Program Coordinator Angelica Tyler sharing how the O6 Afterschool model is helping rural students thrive. Together, they will discuss why high-quality afterschool programming is a necessity—not a luxury—in rural communities and how strategic partnerships with schools, businesses, and community organizations are creating new pathways to success for students.
Participants will learn how the Original Six model has evolved over the past 10 years to connect students with professionals, workplaces, and career experiences that broaden horizons and inspire future goals. From classroom career speakers to behind-the-scenes visits at companies such as Boeing, Honda, manufacturing facilities, law firms, and colleges, O6 is helping students see what is possible long before they enter the workforce.
Following a brief presentation, Kara Gormley Meador will moderate a dynamic panel discussion featuring leaders from education, workforce development, and industry who are helping shape South Carolina's future talent pipeline. Panelists will share insights on workforce trends, career readiness, employer engagement, and the importance of exposing students to career opportunities early.
Panelists include:

• Debbie Jones, Pee Dee Regional Workforce Advisor, South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce
• Robert Wingard, Honda
• Stacey McDonald, Principal, Palmetto Middle School, Marion County School District
• Nick Washington, Original Six Foundation 

Attendees will leave with practical strategies for designing nimble, responsive afterschool programming that aligns with school priorities, strengthens community partnerships, and equips students with the awareness and skills needed for future success.

Join a panel of business leaders to learn how working with schools helps businesses build a future-ready workforce, while providing students with authentic career exposure, internships, and skill-based learning. This session will provide strategies for educators to engage local industry and for businesses to deepen their impact on education.