By Dr. Katchia J.  Gethers

Chief Executive Officer, Charleston Education Partners

If you've lived in Charleston for any amount of time, you know there is something special about an oyster roast. People gather around a table, conversations start, and someone you didn't know when you arrived may feel like an old friend by the time you leave. That's Charleston. And in many ways, that's also what Charleston Education Partners is about: bringing people together.

CEP exists because we believe the future of public education in Charleston cannot rest on the shoulders of educators alone. It requires families, businesses, faith communities, nonprofits, community leaders, neighbors and people who simply care about children and want to be part of something that helps them succeed.

As a former educator and school leader, I know firsthand how much community support matters. I've seen what happens when someone makes a phone call and opens a door for a student. I've seen teachers encouraged because a community partner noticed their work, and I've watched students discover possibilities for their futures because someone took the time to expose them to something new. Those moments matter, and creating more of them is part of why CEP matters.

Our upcoming Oyster Roast is an opportunity to support that work, but it is also an opportunity to simply come together, to talk, listen, meet someone new and learn more about CEP. My hope is that people leave not only having enjoyed the evening but also thinking about one thing they can do to support Charleston's students and educators.

Yes, I hope you'll come enjoy some oysters with us. But more than that, I hope you'll come because you believe, as I do, that public education is a community responsibility. There is work to do, relationships to build and students who need opportunities. There is also room for you in this work.

So pull up a chair. We'd love to have you at the table.

Event Details Below

Shuckin' for Scholars: A Lowcountry Evening for Education

Saturday, November 7, 2026  3:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Jenkins Youth & Family Village

3923 Azalea Drive, North Charleston, SC 29405

Tickets: $65.00, includes oysters, Lowcountry bites, spirits, live music and entertainment.

Sponsorship Opportunities and Individual Tickets can be secured by clicking the link below:

https://coastal.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/list/event?event_date_id=9548