Back to School 2026
The countdown is on.
Next week, students across the Daniel Island, Clements Ferry, and Cainhoy communities will head back to the classroom as the 2026-27 school year begins.
Berkeley County schools return on Wednesday, Aug. 12, while Bishop England High School starts Thursday, Aug. 13. To help families prepare, The Daniel Island News asked each area principal what's new this year, from new faces and school traditions to campus improvements, special events, and advice for students before the first bell.
DIS ready to SOAR with refreshed spaces
A new school year always brings fresh possibilities, and Daniel Island School is welcoming students back with some meaningful upgrades designed to help every Osprey soar.
While families can expect much of what they know and love to remain the same, Principal Laura Blanchard said several improvements will greet students when they return. A newly installed safety glass system in the front office enhances campus security, while refresh projects throughout the building will continue into September to create updated learning spaces.
The daily schedule remains unchanged, with students able to arrive beginning at 7:15 a.m. before the 7:45 a.m. tardy bell. Student clubs will also return throughout the year, giving Ospreys opportunities to explore new interests, build leadership skills, and strengthen friendships beyond the classroom.
Before the first bell rings, families can reconnect during Kindergarten Round-Up on Sunday, Aug. 9; Meet the Teacher on Monday, Aug. 10; Curriculum Night on Aug. 24-25; and the PTA's annual first-day coffee for parents after morning drop-off.
For Blanchard, though, the biggest focus isn't a new initiative or renovated space – it's continuing to build a school where students feel challenged, supported, and inspired.
"We are committed to fostering a school where every student is challenged academically, supported emotionally, and inspired to discover their unique potential," she said.
Following Berkeley County School District's vision of "creating a future we dare to imagine," DIS will continue emphasizing not only academic achievement but also resilience, curiosity, empathy, and strong character.
The school expects to be fully staffed this fall and is welcoming several new team members, including teachers Ms. Holowka, Ms. Mwroka, Mr. Roberts, Mr. Duncan, and Ms. Ferm, along with speech therapist Mrs. Dingle and several instructional assistants.
As another year begins, Blanchard said one lesson continues to guide her leadership.
"Every year, as a new school year begins, I find myself coming back to the same simple idea: the choices we make every day shape the kind of year we will have," she said.
Her message to students is simple: come prepared, stay organized, and don't underestimate the impact of kindness.
"As you walk through our doors this year, bring your curiosity. Bring your determination. Bring your best effort," Blanchard said. "Most of all, bring the kind of character that makes others glad you're here."
Bishop England begins the year with a financial recovery plan
Bishop England High School will welcome students back this fall with new academic offerings, campus improvements, and a renewed focus on its mission following a summer marked by leadership changes and the announcement of a financial recovery plan.
Last month, interim Head of School Wanda Jaraczewski informed families and alumni that the school is operating at a financial deficit following a comprehensive review of its finances. In a letter to the Bishop England community, Jaraczewski said the school, in partnership with the Diocese of Charleston, has developed and begun implementing a long-term financial recovery plan aimed at restoring financial stability over the next several years.
As part of that plan, the school announced reductions to portions of its operations staff, calling the personnel decisions "difficult" but necessary while asking families, alumni, and supporters to continue backing Bishop England through prayers, volunteerism, and investment in the school's mission.
Principal Mary Anne Tucker acknowledged the school’s recent challenges but said the support shown by the community has strengthened her optimism heading into the new year.
"The last six months have deepened my appreciation for just how special our school truly is," Tucker said. "As we have navigated this time of transition, I've been humbled by the outpouring of love, support, and encouragement from students, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends."
She said that the encouragement from the Bishop England community gives her "great confidence and excitement" as the school begins another academic year.
Alongside that transition, students will return to several campus improvements, including major bathroom renovations, expanded science and world language course offerings, new clubs and extracurricular activities, and a new senior privilege that Tucker said will be unveiled during the school year.
The school will also continue longstanding traditions such as Freshman Retreat, Day of Mercy, and Bless the Bishops Night. During Day of Mercy, students, faculty, and staff volunteer throughout the Charleston area by cleaning beaches, supporting food pantries, helping families in need, and completing other service projects.
"My priority as principal is to ensure that everything we do begins with our faith," Tucker said. "By keeping Christ at the center of our school, we will continue to foster a culture of excellence, compassion, and community where every student is known, supported, and challenged to grow."
Bishop England is also welcoming several new faculty and staff members this year, including interim Head of School Wanda Jaraczewski, Director of Academic Support Lisa Gilbert, and math teacher Kathy Schertz.
As students prepare for the first day, Tucker encourages them to embrace every opportunity high school has to offer.
"Be intentional about all things – the words you use, the friends you choose, and the way you spend your time," she said. "Most importantly, get involved. Whether it's joining a club, playing a sport, participating in the arts, or serving others, the more you invest in the Bishop England community, the more rewarding your high school experience will be."
New principal takes the reins at PSE
Philip Simmons Elementary will begin the 2026-27 school year with a new face leading the school, but don't expect sweeping changes.
New principal Dr. Creighton Eddings is stepping into the role following the departure of Michael Huff, who led the school since 2021. Rather than overhaul what's already in place, Eddings said he's focused on building upon the culture and traditions that have made PSE one of Berkeley County's “standout elementary schools.”
"I am joining a school with an amazing foundation already in place," Eddings said. "Many of our teachers have dedicated years of their careers to creating engaging, supportive classrooms where students are challenged, encouraged, and inspired every day."
Eddings brings years of experience with Berkeley County School District and said he was drawn to Philip Simmons Elementary because of its reputation for academic excellence and strong family partnerships.
One new addition joining him this year is Assistant Principal Latoya Stevens, who comes to PSE from Carolyn Lewis School, where she served as a school counselor.
"Mrs. Stevens brings tremendous compassion and a heart for serving students and families," Eddings said.
Alongside the new leadership team, Eddings said families can expect much of what already makes PSE special to continue.
"One of the greatest blessings of joining Philip Simmons Elementary is that I don't need to come in making major changes," he said. "That is a true testament to the incredible work that has already been done by our staff and school community."
Families will have several opportunities to meet the school's new leaders before classes begin, including Pops with the Principal on Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 3-5 p.m. and Meet the Teacher on Monday, Aug. 10, from 5-7 p.m. Students officially return to class on Wednesday, Aug. 12.
As he begins his first year, Eddings said every decision starts with one question: “‘What is best for our students?’ I want every student who walks through our doors to learn at a high level, as well as know that they are supported and capable of great things."
While the school did not announce specific teaching hires, Eddings said supporting both new and veteran educators will be one of his priorities because “investing in teachers ultimately benefits students.”
Eddings wants families to know that partnership will be a cornerstone of his leadership.
"I look forward to getting to know our families, listening, celebrating successes together, and working side-by-side to ensure every child has an outstanding elementary school experience," he said.
To his future students, he says, “Enjoy the last days of summer, come ready to learn, and get excited for an incredible school year! Our entire staff has been working very hard to get ready for the upcoming year. We are excited to see everyone on August 12th!"
Every teacher returns for another year at PSM
For students walking through the doors at Philip Simmons Middle School this fall, much of what they'll see will feel familiar, and that's exactly how Principal Charla Groves likes it.
After celebrating the school's 10th anniversary last year, PSM is entering the 2026-27 school year without any major changes to schedules, programs, or daily routines. Instead, the focus is on building consistency in the classroom and continuing to improve student achievement.
"As is the case every year, our instructional priorities will mirror those of Berkeley County School District," Groves said.
This year, teachers will continue using “high-quality instructional materials” across all subject areas while planning instruction around student data to help every learner grow.
One thing new this year isn't a new program or building improvement; it's the fact that nothing is changing when it comes to the faculty.
"I am happy to report we are fully staffed with teachers," Groves said. "In fact, 100% of our teaching staff is returning for the 2026-2027 school year."
Before classes begin, incoming sixth graders and their families are invited to a sixth-grade orientation on Monday, Aug. 10, from 10-11:30 a.m., where they'll meet teachers, tour the school, and learn what to expect during their first year of middle school. Later that evening, seventh- and eighth-grade families can drop in for Meet the Teacher from 5-7 p.m.
As always, Groves encourages students to start the year by staying organized, asking questions, and giving themselves grace as they settle into new routines. She also reminds students that everyone feels nervous on the first day, even if they don't show it.
"Be open and friendly," Groves said. "Smile, say hello, and introduce yourself to classmates. A small act of kindness can help you make a new friend quickly."
Above all, she hopes students remember that every school year offers a fresh start.
"Believe in yourself," Groves said. "You're capable of more than you think, and with the right mindset, this can be your best year yet."
PSHS marks 10 years with new career opportunities
As Philip Simmons High School celebrates its 10th anniversary, students will have even more opportunities to prepare for life after graduation thanks to new academic and workforce programs launching this school year.
Principal LaTanya Butler said while daily routines will remain the same, the school is expanding both its fine arts and career and technical education offerings.
This fall, students will have the opportunity to take dance as a fine arts course, while the spring semester will bring a new electrician pathway to the school's Career and Technical Education program.
One of the biggest additions is NuPath, a new partnership between Philip Simmons High School, Nucor Berkeley, and Trident Technical College.
The program will allow 15 seniors to participate in Trident Tech's Future Ready course, where they'll earn industry credentials and develop workplace skills designed to prepare them for entry-level careers at Nucor after graduation.
Beyond new programs, Butler hopes the school's milestone anniversary becomes an opportunity to strengthen its culture.
"This year will be the 10th year anniversary of Philip Simmons High, and I would like for us to celebrate that by continuing to develop lasting traditions at The Phil," she said.
Students new to campus can attend New Student and Freshman Orientation on Monday, Aug. 10, from 9-11 a.m., while families are invited to Open House on Wednesday, Aug. 19, beginning at 4:30 p.m.
Butler said the school is fully staffed as it prepares to welcome students back and remains focused on balancing academic excellence with a strong sense of community.
"I want to continue to try to build community at PSH while keeping our excellent academic standards," she said.
As students get ready for the first day, Butler encourages them to think ahead.
"Plan! Plan! Plan!" she said. "Plan for the things that haven't happened as well as those things that you know will happen."
Most importantly, she hopes students will embrace the high school experience instead of chasing perfection.
"Relax and enjoy!" Butler said. "Our kids put too much pressure on themselves to be perfect, and that isn't attainable. Come into high school willing to take chances and wanting to make memories!"
Cainhoy Elementary sets sights on Palmetto Gold
After earning Palmetto Silver status from the South Carolina Department of Education last year, Cainhoy Elementary School is aiming even higher.
Principal Cynthia Bise said one of the school's biggest goals for the 2026-27 school year is to continue building on its academic success while pursuing the state's highest recognition.
"Our next stop is GOLD," Bise said.
To help get there, Cainhoy will continue emphasizing high-quality instruction, strong attendance, and academic achievement while expanding opportunities for students beyond the traditional classroom.
This year, the school is partnering with Charleston-based Yo Art! to bring additional STEAM experiences to students, with more details expected later this year. Students will also have new after-school opportunities through Leveling the Field.
While new programs are being added, families can expect familiar routines when school begins. Arrival and dismissal times will remain the same, with students attending from 7:20 a.m. to 1:50 p.m.
Before classes begin, families are invited to a drop-in Meet Your Teacher open house on Monday, Aug. 10, from 4-6 p.m. The school will also host its Read to Succeed Family Night for all grade levels on Sept. 15 at 5 p.m.
Bise said Cainhoy is fully staffed for the new school year and is welcoming Nicole Singleton as the school's new counselor. A Berkeley County native, Singleton returns home after previously working in Charleston County.
As she begins her second year as principal, Bise said she's especially grateful for the support she's received from the community.
"I'm excited to continue building relationships with students, parents, and community," she said. "The outpouring of support and love from the Wando/Huger area is the most I have ever received in my 33 years serving BCSD."
Her advice for students heading into the first day? "Be ready to have the best school year ever!" Bise said. "Myself, and all of the CHE staff is so excited to see you come through those doors."