Back-to-School postponed to Thursday; Teachers and staff provided additional time to prepare

Berkeley County School District (BCSD) has postponed the first day of school to Thursday, August 15, giving teachers and staff more time to prepare and students an extra day of summer break. This decision comes after recent severe weather and flooding prevented access to school buildings for three days, disrupting traditional classroom and school preparation time for teachers and staff.

“We value the dedication of our teachers and staff in preparing classrooms and schools, and this additional day will allow them to better prepare to receive more than 38,000 students on Thursday,” said BCSD Superintendent Dr. Anthony Dixon. “Last week, teachers completed virtual professional development and training so now they can focus on classroom and school needs Monday through Wednesday.”

School and district offices will be open regular hours, and extracurricular activities and athletic programs will also operate according to their normal schedule. Information and schedules for school specific meet the teacher and grade specific orientation days have been shared with families by school leaders.

Dixon added, “We understand that disruptions in schedules are not easy for anyone so we appreciate the understanding of our parents and community as we work to ensure that the first day is the best it can be for students and teachers on Thursday.”

Any weather day adjustments necessary as a result of this calendar change will be reviewed and communicated, if needed, at a later date.

Philip Simmons High Athletics

Highlights: Philip Simmons varsity boys soccer vs. Lugoff Elgin