The First Tee Program & CCSD Schools

The First Tee National School Program is an organization aimed at positively impacting the lives of local youth by providing structured character education programs, which promote core values and life skills through the game of golf. 

The National School Program brings this program to Charleston County School District (CCSD) elementary schools by training physical educators and equipping them with the curriculum and equipment needed to deliver the program during the school day.  The organization’s emphasis on leading a healthy lifestyle is the perfect complement to the district’s ongoing focus on student and employee wellness.

During the 2010-2011 school year, eight CCSD elementary schools implemented The First Tee program.  Through the sponsorship of at least community member working closely with the students and staff, each school—including Angel Oak, Charleston Progressive Academy, Chicora, James Simons, Memminger, Mitchell, North Charleston, and Sanders Clyde—provided an introduction to the game of golf and The First Tee Nine Core Values during regular physical education classes. The in-school component encompasses an overview of the game of golf and how it is played, basic skills instruction, and an introduction to the life-enhancing values inherent in the game. The program also allows students to see the game in action.

For example, in late May 2011, 18 students from Sanders Clyde Elementary/Middle School made a short trip to Patriots Point Golf Links in Mt. Pleasant.  The children took a tour of the 18-hole course, participated in clinics and games, and witnessed first-hand how the rules of golf—which they studied throughout the year due to the partnership of school sponsor John E. Cay—translate on a course.