Greenville parents should be aware of several important new school policies for the 2025-2026 school year aimed at fostering a safe, respectful, and effective learning environment.
Key New Policies:
Attendance: In line with South Carolina’s compulsory attendance law, all children must attend school regularly from age 5 until their 17th birthday. Parents can opt out of kindergarten if the child turns 6 after September 1 by signing a waiver. Attendance is strictly monitored as each absence means lost instructional time.​
Behavior and Discipline: Schools have adopted updated behavior codes with clear consequences for violations such as disruptive conduct, abusive language, intimidation, or other misconduct. Disciplinary actions range from in-school suspensions to out-of-school suspension, alternative school assignments, or expulsion for ongoing severe issues. There are tailored procedures for students with disabilities following federal laws.​
Anti-Bullying and Safe Schools: The district emphasizes a safe, inclusive environment with proactive anti-bullying measures and Title IX protections. Students and staff are expected to uphold respectful relationships and report concerns.​
Use of Technology: Personal electronic devices must remain out of sight and silenced during instructional time unless authorized by school administration for special events.​
Student Dress Code: Changes to the dress code were enacted for 2025, emphasizing appropriateness and decorum. Violations may lead to the provision of replacement clothing or disciplinary measures.​
Transportation and Safety: Schools have developed specific protocols for student arrival and dismissal to account for age and safety, with staff assigned accordingly. Parents must be present for pickup/dropoff of younger children.​
Homework and Grading Policies: There are uniform policies around homework expectations and grading to ensure fairness and academic rigor.​
Parental Rights: Parents have rights regarding privacy, student speakers, school insurance, and the “Parent’s Right to Know” policies, ensuring transparency and engagement.​
Overall, Greenville County Schools are committed to a collaborative approach involving students, parents, and staff to maintain high academic standards and a positive, safe environment for all students during the 2025-2026 school year. Parents should review the detailed student handbooks available on the Greenville County Schools website for comprehensive information and stay engaged with their child’s school for updates.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.greenville.k12.sc.us/scollins/Upload/Uploads/2025-26SCEStudentHandbookUpdatedJuly242025.pdf)
[2](https://www.greenville.k12.sc.us/taylors/Upload/Uploads/Student%20Handbook%202025-2026.pdf)
[3](https://www.greenville.k12.sc.us/shs/Upload/Uploads/SHS%20Student%20Handbook%202025-2026.docx.pdf)
[4](https://www.greenville.k12.sc.us/bethel/Upload/Uploads/2025-26%20BES%20Student%20Handbook.pdf)
[5](https://www.scgreenmiddle.org/news/2025-2026-school-calendar)
