Charleston parents should know about several new school policies and updates for the 2025-2026 school year, particularly in the Charleston County School District (CCSD). Key points include:
The 2025-2026 academic calendar requires at least 190 school days, including 180 instructional days and minimum daily instructional hours. Schools may have early release and half days with specific timing rules governed by state law.
CCSD emphasizes early childhood education expansion, including universal pre-K programs aimed at closing education gaps and preparing children for kindergarten success.
Parents must register their children annually for school, set up meal and parent portal accounts, and ensure children are up-to-date on immunizations and medical needs.
Schools assign advisory teachers and counselors to help students with academic progress, graduation planning, and career readiness through individualized learning plans.
Compulsory attendance laws require children to attend school from age five until graduation or age 17, with legal consequences for unexcused absences.
Parents should stay informed through school newsletters, the CCSD website, and events like orientations and back-to-school meetings.
Policies regarding student conduct, attendance, and school activities are detailed in parent-student handbooks available from each school or online.
These policies reflect legal requirements, academic goals, and efforts to engage families in student success and community partnerships.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.ccsdschools.com/family-resources/academic-calendar)
[2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gD2ebuQmUww)
[3](https://learn4lifecharleston.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2024-25-Parent-Student-Handbook_Charleston-pdf.pdf)
[4](https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1724168339/ccsdschoolscom/ghsese7a0lwt1lj0a8cy/StudentCodeofConduct_2024-25_aug12.pdf)
[5](https://www.ccsdschools.com/family-resources)
