News Summary
The Savannah-Chatham County School System has opened its doors for the academic year, welcoming over 36,000 students. This year, the district has introduced new attendance policies aimed at improving student accountability and support, including an attendance recovery option and enhanced safety measures such as reactivated speed cameras and increased police presence in schools. Additionally, all students will receive free breakfast and lunch, addressing food insecurity while fostering a safe learning environment. The district’s commitment to student success is evident through its various initiatives and enhancements.
Savannah, Georgia – The Savannah-Chatham County School System officially opened for the 2025-2026 academic year on August 4, welcoming back more than 36,000 students to their classrooms. This year, the district has introduced significant changes to its attendance policy and safety measures, reflecting a commitment to support and safeguard students and families.
The new attendance policy aims to create a balance of accountability and support for families. One of the notable features is the implementation of an attendance recovery option for students, which allows them to make up missed school days. Additionally, the updated attendance waiver process will assist those facing extenuating circumstances. A “no credit” designation will now apply to chronically absent students, highlighting the district’s focus on the critical link between attendance and academic success as emphasized by Chief Academic Officer Derrick Butler.
This year, families can also access a synchronous remote learning option that allows for up to five days of remote attendance if needed. Meanwhile, in efforts to enhance safety, the district has reactivated school zone speed cameras in Chatham County. In the previous year, these cameras recorded over 31,000 speeding violations, prompting the district to enforce stricter measures beginning 45 minutes before school starts and continuing for 30 minutes after dismissal.
To further reinforce school safety, the Savannah-Chatham County School System has increased its police presence, with 68 officers now stationed throughout schools during the academic year. As a part of the safety enhancements, new technology including panic buttons for teachers has been implemented, enabling immediate contact with law enforcement in emergencies. An audio enhancement intercom system featuring built-in duress alarm buttons has also been introduced to streamline communication during critical situations.
Recognizing the importance of addressing food insecurity among students, the district will provide all students with free breakfast and lunch this year. This initiative aims to ease families’ morning routines and ensure that children are nourished and ready to learn.
The district’s “Strive for Five” campaign encourages students to limit their absences to five days or fewer throughout the year, reinforcing the importance of consistent attendance for educational success. In support of transportation needs, a bus driver recruitment initiative has been launched to ensure safe transport for over 27,000 students attending the schools.
All schools will implement enhanced safety measures, including entry screenings and an increased presence of law enforcement officials to foster a secure environment. In addition to addressing general safety, the district has made updates to its Autism Services program to accommodate the growing number of students requiring specialized support.
A new system for identifying adult sex offenders will also be established at schools, elevating the commitment to maintaining a safe environment for students and staff. In light of ongoing safety concerns, panic buttons for staff were mandated by new Georgia legislation as an additional precautionary measure.
Despite some initial setbacks, such as a power outage at May Howard Elementary caused by a fallen tree on the opening day, school officials remain dedicated to providing a structured and successful academic year for all students. The district’s proactive approach, encompassing support for student attendance and enhanced safety protocols, reflects its commitment to fostering a conducive learning environment throughout the year.
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Savannah News Roundup: New Appointments and Achievements
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Additional Resources
- WSAV: Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools’ First Day Back
- Wikipedia: Savannah, Georgia
- WJCL: Savannah School Leaders Discuss New Year, New Changes
- Google Search: Savannah Chatham County School System
- Savannah Now: Savannah-Chatham Schools Restructure Autism Program
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education in the United States
- WTOC: School Lunch & Attendance Policy Changes Explained
- Google News: Savannah-Chatham County School System News
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
