Local schools release school schedules, policies

The 2017 - 2018 school year is approaching and schedules have been released for major events, policy changes and first days for the local school districts.                                                                                     

South Carolina has revised elements of the attendance and truancy policies. Please make sure you are aware of the updated rules and consequences. If you do not understand the policy, or feel you need assistance, call the Joint Base Charleston School Liaison at 843-963-4410.

The Charleston County Mayor’s Office for Children, Youth and Families, is hosting the First Day Festival. The First Day initiative encourages parents to take their children to school on the first day. This year’s festival will be held Aug. 13 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Liberty Square at the South Carolina Aquarium and Charleston Maritime Center. Community partners provide free school supplies and helpful information for parents as well as exhibits, boat rides and access to the aquarium.

To clear up any misconceptions and to help those moving throughout the housing community, please be aware of the following information:

• Some schools have uniform requirements

• All new Joint Base Charleston military residents may elect to have their elementary school age children attend either Lambs or Hunley Park Elementary. The district does not provide transportation. 

• Magnet Schools: Military families arriving at Joint Base Charleston after the normal lottery process, for the upcoming school year have extended application deadlines for “choice” schools. Please contact the School Liaison Office for more information or look under the “Information for Military Families” link on the Charleston County School Districts web page for the application.

Below are the first days of school and contact information for the surrounding school districts and the Palmetto Scholars Academy:

Palmetto Scholars Academy

The first day of school for children enrolled at the Palmetto Scholars Academy is Aug 14. Parents and guardians can get more information for students attending the academy at 843- 300-4118 or at the following website: http://www.palmettoscholarsacademy.org.

Charleston County School District

The first day of school for children enrolled in Charleston County Schools is Aug. 17. Parents and guardians can get more information by calling 843-937-6300 or visiting www.ccsdschools.com. To verify your attendance zone, visit www.croppermap.com/charleston/

Berkeley County Schools

Berkeley County Schools will open Aug 14. Parents and guardians can get more information by calling 843-899-8600 or visiting www.bcsdschools.net. To verify your attendance zone, visit www.gis.berkeleycountysc.gov/maps/school_system/future.html

Dorchester School District Two

The first day of school for children enrolled in Dorchester School District Two is Aug. 22. Parents and guardians can get more information by calling 843-873-2901 or by visiting www.edlinesites.net/pages/Dorchester_County_SD. Check with the district office for latest information.