In South Carolina, some students are returning to school earlier than the state law typically allows. By the end of this week, six school districts will be in session, with a dozen more starting before August, despite the law mandating a start date no earlier than the third Monday in August. This is due to the adoption of “year-round modified school calendars,” which provide flexibility in scheduling but still require 180 days of instruction. The number of districts using modified calendars has increased from 21 two years ago to 71 this year. While some educators appreciate the additional breaks these calendars offer, concerns arise over shortened summers and potential issues for families moving between districts with different start dates. The trend suggests a need for lawmakers to reconsider the current start date law’s relevance.
https://www.live5news.com/2024/07/25/why-more-sc-students-are-heading-back-school-earlier-this-year
