“We just want our children to learn as much as they can,” says Venita Washington.

To 3rd graders in Columbia’s Hyatt Park Elementary School, Jeorgie Hicks is a role model.

Sometimes success is only one decision away…and this was certainly the case for Tre’Shaun Jacobs and his family.

Charles Pierce has a clear message when it comes to his son and daughter’s future: “I’m going to do whatever I have to, to ensure that they get the education they need to be successful.”

“We had met several home schooling families with children whose character, manners, and social skills we admired very much,” says Nancy Campbell.

For lifelong South Carolinian and mother of three Courtenay Ellis, public magnet schools are all about intention.

“We chose private school from the very beginning,” says Shaylah MacDonald.

“I’m a pediatrician. I can tell you a lot about staying healthy, but when it comes to education, I can only point you in the right direction,” said Dr. Beverly Wilson

“The biggest tragedy in life is doing what you are not passionate about,” said Pastor Julio Sotero of Greenville, South Carolina.

It’s a chilly December afternoon outside in Greenville’s Judson community, but inside the cafeteria of the Greater Mount Calvary Baptist Church there’s a warm hive of activity.