2026 Enrollment Guide — Charleston, SC

Navigate Charleston Schools With Clarity.

Compare private, public, Montessori, and charter schools across the Lowcountry — all in one structured, data-first platform.

47Schools Listed
8Neighborhoods
$8K–$36KTuition Range
JanNext Deadlines
Charleston historic district Children learning Students in classroom South Carolina coast
Filter Schools
Showing 12 schools
Featured

Porter-Gaud School — Applications for Fall 2026 are now open. Limited seats available in Middle School.

All Schools

Sponsored
Porter-Gaud School
Downtown Charleston
EpiscopalCollege PrepK–12
Tuition$28,400/yr
Class Size14–18
Founded1867
⚠ Deadline: Jan 15, 2026
Ashley Hall
Downtown Charleston
Girls' SchoolCollege PrepPK–12
Tuition$30,100/yr
Class Size12–16
Founded1909
Deadline: Feb 1, 2026
Montessori School of Mt. Pleasant
Mount Pleasant
MontessoriAges 2–12Mixed-Age
Tuition$16,800/yr
Class Size18–22
Founded1978
Deadline: Rolling
Pinecrest Academy of the Carolinas
Mount Pleasant
CatholicClassicalK–12
Tuition$18,500/yr
Class Size16–20
Founded2002
Deadline: Mar 1, 2026
Academic Magnet High School
North Charleston
Public MagnetSTEMGrades 9–12
TuitionFree
Class Size20–24
LotteryFeb 2026
⚠ Lottery: Feb 14, 2026
Sundrops Montessori School
West Ashley
MontessoriAges 18mo–6Pre-K
Tuition$11,200/yr
Class Size10–14
Founded1991
Deadline: Rolling
Palmetto Christian Academy
Mount Pleasant
Non-DenominationalK–12
Tuition$9,800/yr
Class Size18–22
Founded1989
Deadline: Apr 1, 2026
Charleston School of the Arts
North Charleston
Visual ArtsPerforming ArtsPublic Magnet 6–12
TuitionFree
Class Size18–22
AuditionRequired
App: Jan 8 – Feb 12
James Island Charter High School
James Island
Public CharterIB ProgramGrades 9–12
TuitionFree
Class Size22–28
IB DiplomaAvailable
Deadline: Rolling
East Cooper Montessori Charter
Mount Pleasant
MontessoriPublic CharterK–8
TuitionFree
Class Size24–28
LotteryMarch
⚠ Lottery: Mar 1, 2026
Lowcountry Preparatory School
West Ashley
ClassicalProject-BasedK–8
Tuition$17,400/yr
Class Size14–18
FA AvailableYes
Deadline: Apr 15, 2026
Buist Academy for Advanced Studies
Downtown Charleston
Gifted & TalentedPublic MagnetK–8
TuitionFree
Class Size20–24
TestingRequired
⚠ App: Jan 8 – Feb 12

2026 Enrollment Timeline

Key dates across Charleston private & public schools
Sep
Open houses beginWaitlist carryovers
Oct
Applications openShadow days
Nov
Financial aid opensTesting begins
Jan ← Now
Early deadlinesPorter-Gaud Jan 15CCSD School Choice opens Jan 8
Feb
Ashley Hall Feb 1CCSD Choice closes Feb 12Decisions begin
Mar
Final deadlinesDeposits dueWaitlists move

Parent Resource Guides

Students studying together Charleston palmetto trees
When to Apply — 2026 Enrollment Timeline
Month-by-month breakdown of the full application cycle, from open houses to deposit deadlines.
Read guide →
Montessori vs. Traditional in Charleston
A structured comparison of philosophy, outcomes, and which approach fits different kids.
Read guide →
Average Tuition in Charleston — 2026 Data
Comprehensive tuition data by school type, neighborhood, and grade level.
Read guide →
Financial Aid Guide for Charleston Private Schools
How financial aid works at Charleston's private schools, plus the SC Education Scholarship program.
Read guide →
Just Moved to Charleston? Welcome Guide
Everything new families need to get their kids into school quickly, confidently, and correctly.
Read welcome guide →
Public & Charter School Guide — CCSD 2026
How CCSD School Choice, magnet lotteries, and charter applications work in Charleston County.
Read guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Most Charleston private schools open applications in September or October for the following fall. Key deadlines fall between January and March. For Pre-K and early childhood programs, start 12–18 months ahead — many competitive programs fill by January. Porter-Gaud's deadline is January 15, Ashley Hall's is February 1.
Several Montessori options exist under $20K: Sundrops Montessori (West Ashley, ~$11K), Montessori School of Mt. Pleasant (~$17K), and East Cooper Montessori Charter (free, via public lottery in March). The charter is highly competitive — many families apply to a private backup simultaneously.
The CCSD School Choice application window runs January 8 – February 12, 2026 for the 2026–27 school year. You create a guardian account at schoolchoice.ccsdschools.com, apply to magnet or specialty schools, and enter a lottery if the school is oversubscribed. Notifications go out before Spring Break. Siblings of current students receive priority points.
Most private schools in Charleston offer need-based aid. Financial aid applications typically open alongside main applications in October–November. South Carolina's Education Scholarship Accounts (ESA) program provides additional funds for qualifying families — up to approximately $7,000/year. Apply at sceducation.org.
Required documents for CCSD enrollment include: proof of residence (lease, utility bill, or mortgage statement), birth certificate, SC immunization record (DHEC Form 2122), previous school records/transcripts, and a custody order if applicable. Register online at ccsdschools.com/register. Your child is not officially enrolled until the school reviews and approves all documents.
Children must turn 5 years old on or before September 1, 2026 to be eligible for kindergarten in the 2026–27 school year. For Pre-K (4-year-old CD programs), children must turn 4 on or before September 1. CCSD Pre-K applications open January 7, 2026. If your child misses the cutoff, you may request a delayed entry assessment.
Premium Membership

Make your decision with confidence.

Side-by-side comparisons, deadline calendars, application checklists, and personalized AI recommendations — all in one place.

Side-by-side school comparisons Downloadable PDF reports Enrollment deadline calendar AI recommendation engine Application checklist generator Save & bookmark schools

From $49/year · Cancel anytime

› Downtown Charleston › Porter-Gaud School

Porter-Gaud School

📍 25 Courtenay Dr, Charleston 🎓 Grades K–12 ✝ Episcopal Est. 1867

Quick Facts

Annual Tuition
$28,400
Application Fee
$75
Enrollment Deposit
$1,500
Financial Aid
Yes — Need-based
Average Class Size
14–18 students
Student-Teacher Ratio
8:1
Total Enrollment
~980 students
Accreditation
SACS / Southern Assoc.

About This School

Porter-Gaud School is one of Charleston's most established private institutions, offering an Episcopal-affiliated, college preparatory education for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. Founded in 1867, the school is known for its rigorous academic program, strong sense of community, and generous campus on the Charleston peninsula.

The school consistently sends graduates to selective universities nationwide and maintains one of the lowest student-teacher ratios in the region at 8:1. Athletics, performing arts, and service learning are integrated into the full school experience.

While Episcopal in tradition, Porter-Gaud welcomes students of all faith backgrounds and does not require church membership for admission. Chapel services are held, and a values-based curriculum is central to the school's identity.

2025–2026 Admissions Timeline

Sep–Oct

Open Houses & Shadow Days

Families attend info sessions. Students in Grades 1–12 may schedule shadow days to experience campus life firsthand.

Oct 1

Applications Open

Online application available at portergaud.edu. Application fee: $75. Transcripts and teacher recommendations requested.

Nov–Dec

Financial Aid Applications

Submit financial aid application through FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment. Opens concurrently with admissions application.

Jan 15

Application Deadline ⚠

All materials — transcripts, recommendations, testing (where required) — must be received by January 15, 2026.

Jan–Feb

Student Interviews

Required for all applicants. Typically 20–30 minutes with an admissions counselor. Families are interviewed separately.

Mar 1

Admissions Decisions

Families notified by email. Accepted students have two weeks to accept or decline. Enrollment deposit of $1,500 required.

Waitlist & Sibling Policy

Siblings of currently enrolled students receive priority consideration in the admissions process. If a program is full, applicants are placed on a waitlist ranked by completed application date. Waitlist movement is most active in March–April and again in July as families finalize plans. Families on the waitlist are encouraged to confirm continued interest in writing by April 15.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Porter-Gaud welcomes students of all faith backgrounds. While the school holds chapel services and integrates Episcopal values into its program, church membership or a statement of faith is not required for admission.
Testing requirements vary by grade. Kindergarten applicants complete a brief readiness assessment. Upper school applicants (Grades 7–9) typically submit SSAT or ISEE scores. Contact the admissions office at portergaud.edu to confirm current testing requirements for your child's grade.
Porter-Gaud awards need-based financial aid annually and has one of the most robust aid programs among Charleston private schools. Families should submit the FACTS application by November to receive full consideration. Aid decisions are included with admissions letters in March.
⚠ Application deadline: January 15, 2026. Submit all materials including transcripts and recommendations by this date.

Apply & Enroll

Apply at portergaud.edu ↗ Schedule a Tour ↗

Key Numbers

Admissions Office(843) 556-3620
Application Fee$75
Enrollment Deposit$1,500
FA ApplicationFACTS System

Compare This School

Add Porter-Gaud to a side-by-side comparison with other schools.

Also Consider

Side-by-Side Comparison

Compare Charleston Schools

Select up to 3 schools to view a structured side-by-side comparison of tuition, class sizes, admissions, and more.

Porter-Gaud School
Downtown · Episcopal K–12
EpiscopalCollege Prep
$28,400/yr
Ashley Hall
Downtown · Girls' PK–12
Girls' SchoolCollege Prep
$30,100/yr
Pinecrest Academy
Mount Pleasant · Catholic K–12
CatholicClassical
$18,500/yr
CategoryPorter-Gaud SchoolAshley HallPinecrest Academy
Annual Tuition$28,400$30,100$18,500
Application Fee$75$75$50
Enrollment Deposit$1,500$1,500$750
Grades ServedK–12PK–12K–12
Coed / Single-SexCoedGirls OnlyCoed
Class Size14–1812–1616–20
Student-Teacher Ratio8:17:110:1
Religious AffiliationEpiscopalNon-sectarianCatholic
Financial AidYes — FACTSYes — FACTSYes — Need-based
Application DeadlineJan 15, 2026Feb 1, 2026Mar 1, 2026
Interview RequiredYesYesYes
Testing RequiredGr 7–9 (SSAT)Gr 5+ (ISEE)No
Founded186719092002
Total Enrollment~980~660~580
LocationDowntown CHSDowntown CHSMount Pleasant

Want to compare different schools or download this comparison as a PDF?

››Enrollment Timeline
Admissions Guide · 2026

When to Apply to Charleston Private Schools

A complete month-by-month breakdown of the admissions cycle — from the first open house to enrollment deposits — so you never miss a critical deadline.

📅 Updated January 2026⏱ 8 min read🎓 All grade levels

The Charleston Enrollment Calendar

School entrance and students

Navigating school applications in Charleston follows a fairly predictable rhythm, but the window is shorter than most families expect. The full cycle — from open houses to final enrollment decisions — runs roughly 8 months, with the most critical deadlines concentrated in January and February. Private school admissions and CCSD public school choice applications happen simultaneously, which means families often need to manage two processes at once.

Key insight: Most families who secure their first-choice school begin the process in September, 12 months before fall enrollment. Families who start in January are not too late for most schools — but they will miss the earliest deadlines and may find waitlists at the most competitive programs.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

September – October: Research & Open Houses

This is the most important phase and the one most families skip. Open houses are held at virtually every private school in Charleston during September and October. These events are your best opportunity to meet faculty, ask candid questions, and let your child see whether the environment feels right.

Attend 3–5 open houses even if you think you already know which school you want. Your impression of a school changes dramatically when you're standing in the actual hallways. Applications open at most schools in October.

November – December: Applications & Financial Aid

Submit applications as early in this window as possible. Most Charleston private schools use their own online portals. You'll need: completed application form, $50–$75 application fee, current transcripts (for grades K+), two teacher recommendations (for grades 3+), and testing scores where required.

Financial aid applications open simultaneously with admissions applications. Submit your financial aid application (typically through the FACTS Grant & Aid system) by November to receive full consideration. Late financial aid applications frequently receive reduced awards.

January: The Critical Month

January is when Charleston's school calendar compresses. Private school deadlines cluster in the first two weeks of January, while the CCSD School Choice window opens on January 8. This is also when Pre-K (4-year-old CD) applications open through CCSD, available January 7 at ccsdschools.com.

SchoolDeadlineType
Porter-Gaud SchoolJanuary 15, 2026Private — Episcopal
CCSD School Choice Window OpensJanuary 8, 2026Public — Magnet / Charter
CCSD Pre-K Applications OpenJanuary 7, 2026Public — Pre-K CD
Buist AcademyFebruary 12, 2026Public Magnet — K–8
Charleston School of the ArtsFebruary 12, 2026Public Magnet — 6–12
Academic Magnet High SchoolFebruary 14, 2026Public Magnet — 9–12
Ashley HallFebruary 1, 2026Private — Girls PK–12
Pinecrest AcademyMarch 1, 2026Private — Catholic K–12
East Cooper Montessori CharterMarch 1, 2026 (lottery)Public Charter — K–8

February – March: Decisions & Deposits

Admissions decisions go out in February and March. Most private schools notify families by March 1–15. CCSD School Choice notifications go out before Spring Break (by March 13, 2026). Once you receive an offer, you typically have 2 weeks to accept and submit an enrollment deposit.

Strategic note: If you're applying to both private schools and public magnets, you may receive offers simultaneously. Accepting a private school seat and then accepting a public seat creates complications — public school systems require you to decline other seats before accepting. Plan your acceptance strategy before decisions arrive.

Pre-K & Early Childhood: A Special Case

Pre-K admissions in Charleston operates on a different track from K–12. CCSD's 4-year-old Child Development (CD) program uses a points-based system rather than a pure lottery, with priority given based on developmental need scores from the DIAL-4 screening. Applications open January 7, 2026. All applicants must complete the DIAL-4 developmental screening to be considered. Round 1 qualification notifications go out by May 15.

Private Montessori schools (Sundrops, Montessori School of Mt. Pleasant) operate on rolling admissions for Pre-K, but seats are limited. Apply by January for the best selection of programs.

Enrolled Mid-Year? What New Residents Need to Know

If you're moving to Charleston mid-school year, contact your zoned CCSD school directly. New student registration is handled online through ccsdschools.com using the PowerSchool portal. Your child can begin attending as soon as the school reviews and approves registration — typically 2–5 business days after all documents are submitted. Mid-year transfers to magnet or charter schools are subject to seat availability.

In This Guide
Parent Resource Library

Everything You Need to Decide.

Structured guides, data, and tools built for Lowcountry families navigating school decisions.

2026 Enrollment Timeline
Complete month-by-month calendar from open houses to enrollment deposits.
Read guide →
Montessori vs. Traditional
Structured comparison of learning philosophy, classroom structure, and outcomes.
Read guide →
Average Tuition — 2026 Data
Tuition ranges by school type, neighborhood, and grade level across the Lowcountry.
Read guide →
Financial Aid Guide
FACTS, SC ESA programs, and how aid works at Charleston's major private schools.
Read guide →
CCSD School Choice & Magnet Guide
How the public lottery, magnet schools, and charter applications work in Charleston County.
Read guide →
Just Moved to Town? Welcome Guide
New to Charleston? Everything you need to get your kids enrolled quickly and confidently.
Read welcome guide →
›Tuition Data
Tuition Data · 2026

Average Private School Tuition in Charleston — 2026

Structured tuition data across all school types, neighborhoods, and grade levels to help your family plan and budget with clarity.

📅 Updated January 2026⏱ 6 min read

Tuition Ranges by School Type

Tuition at Charleston-area private schools ranges from approximately $8,500/year at smaller non-denominational schools to over $32,000/year at the most selective college-prep institutions. The following data reflects 2025–2026 tuition rates. Most schools increase tuition 3–5% annually.

School TypeLow EndHigh EndTypical Range
Episcopal / College Prep$24,000$32,000$27,000–$30,000
Catholic$10,000$22,000$14,000–$19,000
Non-Denominational Christian$8,500$16,000$10,000–$13,000
Private Montessori$10,000$22,000$13,000–$18,000
Classical / Liberal Arts$15,000$24,000$17,000–$21,000
Public Magnet / CharterFreeFreeFree (lottery-based)

Tuition by Neighborhood

Private schools in and near Downtown Charleston tend to carry the highest tuition, reflecting both the prestige and real estate costs of the peninsula. Mount Pleasant schools occupy the middle range, while West Ashley and North Charleston options tend to offer more affordable private alternatives.

Neighborhood# Private SchoolsAvg. TuitionNotable Schools
Downtown Charleston6$27,500/yrPorter-Gaud, Ashley Hall
Mount Pleasant9$16,800/yrPinecrest, Palmetto Christian
West Ashley5$13,200/yrSundrops Montessori, Lowcountry Prep
North Charleston4$11,400/yrVarious faith-based schools
James Island3$14,000/yrSeveral small independent schools

Budget tip: After applying financial aid, the SC Education Scholarship Account (ESA) program, and employer education benefits, many families find their effective tuition is 20–40% lower than the published rate. Always apply for aid, even if you're unsure of eligibility.

In This Guide
›Financial Aid
Financial Aid Guide · 2026

Financial Aid for Charleston Private Schools

How need-based aid, the SC ESA program, and FACTS work together to make private school more accessible than you might expect.

📅 Updated January 2026⏱ 7 min read

Overview: How Financial Aid Works in Charleston

Most private schools in Charleston offer need-based financial aid funded from their own endowments. Aid is not merit-based at most institutions — it is awarded based on documented family financial need. The majority of schools use the FACTS Grant & Aid system to assess applications.

In addition to school-based aid, South Carolina's Education Scholarship Account (ESA) program provides state-funded scholarships for families who meet income eligibility. This is separate from and stackable with school-based aid.

Important: Financial aid applications have their own deadlines — often the same as the admissions deadline. Submitting your FACTS application in October or November gives you the best chance of a full award. Late applicants frequently receive reduced assistance.

The FACTS Grant & Aid System

FACTS is the third-party financial assessment service used by Porter-Gaud, Ashley Hall, Pinecrest, and most other Charleston private schools. To apply for aid, you'll create an account at factsmgt.com and submit your most recent federal tax return, W-2s, and any additional income documentation.

1

Create a FACTS account

Visit factsmgt.com and create a family account. You'll link it to each school's application.

2

Upload financial documents

You'll need your most recent 1040, W-2s, and documentation of other income. Self-employed families need Schedule C.

3

FACTS sends assessment to school

Each school receives a FACTS assessment showing documented need. Schools make their own award decisions from this data.

4

Aid offer included with acceptance

Financial aid offers typically come with your admissions decision. You have the same deadline to accept both.

South Carolina Education Scholarship Accounts (ESA)

South Carolina's ESA program (also called the Education Scholarship Accounts program) provides eligible families with state funds to offset private school tuition. For the 2025–26 school year, awards are approximately $7,000 per student per year for qualifying families. Income limits apply — typically at 300% of the federal poverty level — and funds are distributed as accounts families can direct to approved private schools.

Apply through the SC Department of Education at ed.sc.gov. Applications for 2026–27 open in early 2026. ESA funds can be used alongside school-based financial aid, effectively compounding the discount.

Tips for Maximizing Aid

1

Apply even if you're unsure

Many families who assume they don't qualify for aid are surprised. Apply and let the FACTS assessment determine eligibility.

2

Apply to multiple schools

Aid awards vary significantly between schools. Applying to 3+ schools gives you leverage and comparison data.

3

Stack ESA with school aid

If you qualify for the SC ESA program, you can often combine state funds with school-based grants.

4

Ask about sibling discounts

Most private schools in Charleston offer tuition discounts for families with multiple enrolled children — typically 10–15% off the second child's tuition.

In This Guide
›CCSD School Choice
Public Schools Guide · 2026

CCSD School Choice, Magnet & Charter Schools Guide

How to navigate Charleston County School District's public choice options — from neighborhood schools to competitive magnet programs.

📅 Updated January 2026⏱ 9 min read🏫 CCSD · Charleston County

Your Public School Options in Charleston County

CCSD (Charleston County School District) serves over 50,000 students and operates three distinct enrollment tracks: neighborhood/zoned schools, School Choice magnet and specialty programs, and independent public charter schools. Each has different enrollment processes and timelines.

Track 1: Your Zoned (Neighborhood) School

Every Charleston County address is zoned to a specific CCSD school. Find your zoned school by searching your address at ccsdschools.com. New student registration is completed online through the PowerSchool parent portal. Required documents: proof of residence, birth certificate, SC immunization record (DHEC Form 2122), and previous school records.

If you just moved to Charleston: Contact your zoned school directly. New student registration is online at ccsdschools.com/family-resources/registration-and-enrollment. Your child can begin school as soon as the school approves all submitted documents — typically within 2–5 business days.

Track 2: CCSD School Choice (Magnet Schools)

CCSD's School Choice program allows families to apply to magnet, specialty, and criteria-based schools beyond their zone. The 2026–27 application window runs January 8 – February 12, 2026. Applications are submitted at schoolchoice.ccsdschools.com using a guardian account in SchoolMint.

Popular choice schools include: Academic Magnet High School (rigorous academics, Grades 9–12), Buist Academy for Advanced Studies (gifted K–8, testing required), Charleston School of the Arts (audition-based, Grades 6–12), and Military Magnet Academy (structured, Grades 6–12).

Oversubscribed programs use a lottery. Notifications are sent before Spring Break (by March 13, 2026). Siblings of current students receive priority. For families applying to criteria-based schools, testing or auditions are scheduled through the SchoolMint application portal.

1

Create a guardian account

Visit schoolchoice.ccsdschools.com and create your guardian account in SchoolMint.

2

Enter student information

Add each child and the application grade. You'll see all available choice schools for that grade level.

3

Complete applications by Feb 12

All applications submitted during the window receive equal consideration regardless of submission date.

4

Receive notification by March 13

Accept or decline within the window. Accepting one offer automatically declines all other School Choice applications for that student.

Track 3: Independent Public Charter Schools

Several high-quality charter schools operate independently of the CCSD School Choice process but are still public and tuition-free. These include: East Cooper Montessori Charter School (K–8 Montessori, March lottery), James Island Charter High School (IB program, rolling enrollment), and Charleston Charter School for Math + Science (lottery-based).

Eligibility: Students must reside in Charleston County by July 1. No testing required for admission. Apply directly through each school's website — not through the CCSD SchoolMint portal.

In This Guide
CCSD School Choice ↗
›Montessori vs. Traditional
Learning Styles Guide · 2026

Montessori vs. Traditional Education in Charleston

A neutral, structured comparison to help you understand which approach fits your child — and which Charleston schools represent each.

📅 Updated January 2026⏱ 7 min read

The Core Difference

Montessori education is built around child-led learning within a prepared environment. Students choose their work, move at their own pace, and learn in multi-age classrooms where older students often mentor younger ones. Traditional education follows a structured, teacher-led curriculum where all students progress through the same material at roughly the same pace.

Neither approach is superior — research shows strong outcomes in both, and the right fit depends significantly on your child's personality, learning style, and your family's values around academic structure.

DimensionMontessoriTraditional
Classroom structureSelf-directed, child-ledTeacher-directed, structured
Age groupingMulti-age (3-year spans)Single-age grade levels
AssessmentObservation-based, no testsTests, grades, standardized
Curriculum pacingIndividual paceClass-wide pacing
HomeworkRare / minimalRegular, grade-appropriate
Standardized test prepGenerally minimalOften integrated
Best forIndependent, curious learnersStructured, externally motivated

Montessori Schools in Charleston

Charleston has several legitimate Montessori options ranging from private programs to a free public charter option.

Montessori School of Mt. Pleasant
Ages 2–12 · $16,800/yr · AMI-affiliated · Rolling admissions
Sundrops Montessori School
Ages 18 months–6 · $11,200/yr · West Ashley · Rolling admissions
East Cooper Montessori Charter School
K–8 · Free (public charter) · March lottery · Competitive
In This Guide
Premium Membership

The full picture, in one place.

Upgrade to Premium for side-by-side comparisons, AI-powered school recommendations, downloadable reports, and tools that turn research into a decision.

Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare up to 4 schools across 20+ criteria
AI School Recommendations
Personalized suggestions based on your criteria
Deadline Calendar
Custom calendar for your chosen schools
Downloadable PDF Reports
Export your comparison for offline review
Saved School Dashboard
Bookmark and track multiple schools
Application Checklist Generator
Custom checklists per school and deadline
$49/year
Or $79/year for the Family Plan (covers 2 students). Cancel anytime.

Secure checkout via Stripe. Your data is never sold or shared.

🌴 A Message From Your Neighborhood PTA President

Welcome to Charleston.
Your kids are going to love it here.

Everything you need to get your children enrolled, settled, and thriving in the Lowcountry — from someone who's been exactly where you are right now.

S
Hi, I'm Sarah — PTA President, James Island parent of three.
I moved here from Atlanta seven years ago and remember feeling completely overwhelmed by the school landscape. This page is everything I wish someone had handed me on day one.
Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina — The Holy City

Step 1 — Your First 48 Hours

Let's Get Your Kids into School.

If you've just arrived — or you're closing next week — here's the honest, no-fluff version of what to do first to get your children into school in Charleston as quickly as possible.

Honestly? The #1 mistake I see new families make is waiting to "figure everything out" before they start the enrollment process. Start the CCSD registration the same week you unpack. It's all online, it's fast, and your kids can be in their new school within a week once it's done. Don't wait for the perfect moment.

— Sarah, PTA President, James Island
01

Find Your Zoned Public School

Every Charleston County address has a designated CCSD school. Look up yours first — even if you're planning to apply to a private or charter school, you'll want your backup in place.

Find my zoned school ↗
02

Start CCSD Online Registration

New student registration is done online at ccsdschools.com. You'll need proof of residence, your child's birth certificate, immunization records, and previous school transcripts.

Register at CCSD ↗
03

Get Your SC Immunization Form

South Carolina requires DHEC Form 2122 for all students. If you have records from another state, your pediatrician can complete this. Without it, enrollment cannot be finalized.

Your Enrollment Checklist

Find your zoned CCSD school at ccsdschools.com

Enter your address on the CCSD website to identify your neighborhood school.

Gather required enrollment documents

Proof of residence, birth certificate, immunization records (DHEC 2122), previous transcripts.

Complete CCSD new student registration online

At ccsdschools.com. The process is web-based. Allow 2–5 business days for school review.

Establish care with a local pediatrician

Your pediatrician can transfer immunization records and complete any SC-specific forms required for enrollment.

Check private / charter school deadlines

Many competitive schools have January–March deadlines. Don't miss the window by waiting.

Look into CCSD School Choice (if interested in magnets)

The 2026–27 window is January 8 – February 12. Apply at schoolchoice.ccsdschools.com.

Visit your child's new school before the first day

Arrange a brief walk-through or meet-the-teacher appointment. It makes an enormous difference for kids' anxiety.

The Lay of the Land

Which Part of Charleston Did You Land In?

Charleston is a collection of distinct communities, each with its own school landscape. Here's the honest family-friendly read on each area — from someone who talks to parents in all of them.

Mount Pleasant
Best for: Families wanting top-tier schools + coastal access
Just over the Ravenel Bridge, Mount Pleasant is the most popular landing spot for relocating families. Award-winning public schools (Wando High, Lucy Beckham), walkable neighborhoods like Old Village and Carolina Park, and quick access to Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island. Private school options are strong here too. The tradeoff: traffic on Highway 17 and housing prices that reflect the demand.
Notable public schools:
Wando High School, Lucy Beckham High School, Moultrie Middle School, Mount Pleasant Academy (Blue Ribbon)
Downtown Charleston / Peninsula
Best for: History lovers, walkability, premier private schools
The peninsula is where Charleston's most prestigious private schools are located — Porter-Gaud, Ashley Hall, the Mason Prep tradition. It's walkable, beautiful, and historically rich, but housing is expensive and zoned public schools vary widely by block. Families here often choose private options or apply to CCSD magnet schools. Parking and traffic management require adjustment.
Notable schools:
Porter-Gaud School, Ashley Hall, Buist Academy (magnet), Charleston School of the Arts (magnet)
James Island
Best for: Relaxed pace, community feel, close to Folly Beach
James Island is a favorite among families who want a slower pace, bigger yards, and easy access to both downtown and Folly Beach. It's home to James Island Charter High School — South Carolina's first charter school and widely considered one of the best public high schools in the state. Stiles Point is a particularly beloved neighborhood for families.
Notable schools:
James Island Charter High School (IB Program), Stiles Point Elementary, Camp Road Middle School
West Ashley
Best for: Affordability, accessibility, strong community vibe
West Ashley is the oldest neighborhood in Charleston and remains one of the most affordable options for families. It's the most accessible to the airport, has a strong mix of public, private, and Montessori schools, and is home to some of the best neighborhood-level community in the city. Avondale and the Greenway area have revitalized significantly in recent years.
Notable schools:
Sundrops Montessori, Lowcountry Prep, Carolina Bay Elementary, St. Andrew's Parish High
North Charleston
Best for: Value, diversity, access to magnet programs
North Charleston offers the most affordable housing in the metro area and is home to several of CCSD's top magnet schools including Academic Magnet High School (consistently ranked among the best in the nation) and Military Magnet Academy. Park Circle is a particularly vibrant, family-forward community with a strong neighborhood identity and active park system.
Notable schools:
Academic Magnet High School, Military Magnet Academy, Stall High School, Park Circle Elementary
Daniel Island
Best for: Master-planned living, trails, family amenities
Daniel Island is a master-planned community about 20 minutes from downtown with miles of trails, waterfront parks, a walkable village, and a strong community infrastructure. Daniel Island School serves K–8, and students feed into Philip Simmons High School. It's especially popular with families who want an active, connected community lifestyle.
Notable schools:
Daniel Island School (K–8), Philip Simmons High School
Children learning and engaging outdoors
Beyond School

Keeping Your Kids Engaged, Confident, and Happy During the Transition.

Moving is hard on kids. Here's what actually works — from parents who've done it — to help your children settle in quickly and feel like Charleston is home.

The best thing we ever did when we moved here was enroll our daughter in a local sports league before school even started. By the first day of school, she already had three friends from her team. The school part became easy because the social part wasn't new anymore. Find your kids a community outside of school first, then school feels like an extension of that.

— Sarah, PTA President

Activities & Programs by Age

🏄

Outdoors & Athletics

Charleston County Parks runs year-round youth sports leagues (soccer, baseball, flag football) for ages 4–17. Sullivan's Island Surf Camp and MUSC Health Stadium events are great for older kids. The Lowcountry nature environment is itself a classroom.

Browse CCPRC programs ↗
🎨

Arts & Enrichment

The Charleston Museum, Gibbes Museum of Art, and Charleston Stage all offer youth programs. The Charleston Music Hall and Spoleto Festival programs introduce kids to performing arts. Many are free or low-cost for Charleston County residents.

Explore museum programs ↗
📚

Libraries & Learning

Charleston County Public Library has 16 branches with outstanding youth programs — summer reading, STEAM workshops, and homework help centers. Get library cards for your kids on Day 1. It's free and the resources are genuinely excellent.

Charleston County Library ↗

Something nobody tells you: Charleston kids are incredibly proud of their city. Feed that. Take your kids to the Battery, walk the Rainbow Row, visit Fort Sumter. When your child can tell their class about local history that their classmates take for granted, it flips the dynamic — they suddenly have something unique to offer. That confidence carries into the classroom.

— Sarah, PTA President
The Part Nobody Tells You

Real Talk From a Charleston Parent.

Seven years in, here's what I know that I didn't when I arrived.

Very. Academic Magnet High School is consistently ranked as one of the top public high schools in the entire country. The reality is that most applicants don't get in. Apply — absolutely — but also build a strong relationship with your neighborhood school. Many parents are happily surprised by the quality of CCSD zoned schools, especially in Mount Pleasant, James Island, and Daniel Island.
It depends entirely on your child and what you're optimizing for. If you want a guaranteed small class size, a specific religious environment, or K–12 continuity in one community, private school is genuinely worth it for many families here. But don't assume private automatically equals better outcomes — Wando High's AP pass rates and college acceptance data are legitimately excellent.
Charleston is an incredibly welcoming community for families — but it's also a place where many families have been here for generations. The social integration is real and warm, but your kids will make friends faster if you get them into activities before school starts. Sports leagues, church youth groups, and neighborhood pools are the fastest paths to belonging.
Show up. Go to the school open house even before you're enrolled. Attend the first PTA meeting. Join the neighborhood Facebook group. Charleston has an extremely active parent community, and you'll be welcomed. The Lowcountry Newcomers Club is a great first step for families new to the area — they host events specifically for people in transition.
Charleston parents are highly engaged — you'll find strong PTAs, active volunteer cultures, and schools that respond to family involvement. The city values tradition, community, and character alongside academics. If your child is coming from a large metro school, they may actually find Charleston's environment refreshingly personable and less anonymous. That's a genuine advantage here.
Bookmark These

The Links You'll Actually Need.

CCSD New Student Registration
ccsdschools.com — Start here for all public school enrollment
↗
CCSD School Choice — Magnet Applications
schoolchoice.ccsdschools.com — Jan 8 – Feb 12, 2026
↗
Charleston County Parks & Recreation
ccprc.com — Youth sports, camps, and family activities
↗
Charleston County Public Library
ccpl.org — 16 branches, outstanding youth programs, free
↗
SC Education Scholarship Accounts (ESA)
sceducation.org — Up to $7,000/yr in tuition assistance
↗
2026 Enrollment Timeline Guide
This site — Month-by-month admissions calendar
→
Browse All Charleston Schools
This site — Filter by location, type, tuition, and grade
→
🌴 Welcome to Charleston

You've got this. We've got the data.

Use our full school database to compare, filter, and find the right school for your family — no guesswork required.

›School Holidays 2025–2026
📅 Holiday & Break Schedules

School Holiday Calendars
2025–2026

Every day off, every break, every no-school day — organized by school with total days-off counts. Plan your year before the year starts.

📅 Data sourced from official school & CCSD calendars ✓ Updated June 2025 🏫 8 Schools Covered
Charleston South Carolina
36CCSD Days Off
6Federal Holidays
10Spring Break Days
~43Private Avg. Days Off
Aug 12CCSD First Day
Note: All dates are based on 2025–2026 official calendars published by each school or district. Private school calendars may vary slightly by division (Lower/Middle/Upper). Always verify directly with your school, as dates are subject to change. Weather makeup days and eLearning days are not reflected here — CCSD may add up to 5 eLearning days for emergencies.
Federal Holiday
School Break
Religious / School Holiday
Teacher Workday (No Students)
Early Release Day

By School — Days Off at a Glance

CC
CCSD Public Schools
All Charleston County public, magnet & charter schools
36days off
Teacher Workdays (Before School)
Aug 4–11
6 days
Labor Day
Sep 1
1 day
Early Release — Teacher Planning
Aug 29, Oct 31, Feb 13, May 1
4 half days
Half Day — Teacher Planning
Oct 10, Dec 19
2 half days
Family Data Conferences / Teacher Workday
Nov 3
1 day
Election Day
Nov 4
1 day
Fall Break
Nov 24–28
5 days
Winter Break
Dec 22 – Jan 2
10 days
Teacher Workday
Jan 5
1 day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Jan 19
1 day
Presidents' Day
Feb 16
1 day
Teacher Workday
Mar 16
1 day
Spring Break
Apr 6–10
5 days
Memorial Day
May 25
1 day
First Day: Aug 12 · Last Day: May 28 · ~175 instructional days Official calendar ↗
PG
Porter-Gaud School
Private · Episcopal K–12 · Downtown Charleston
44days off
Faculty Orientation & Pre-Service Days
Aug 4–12
7 days
Labor Day
Sep 1
1 day
Faculty Work Day
Oct 10
1 day
Fall Break
Oct 13–14
2 days
Conference Day (No Classes)
Oct 31
1 day
Thanksgiving Break
Nov 24–28
5 days
Christmas Break
Dec 22 – Jan 2
10 days
Faculty Work Day
Jan 5
1 day
MLK Jr. Day
Jan 19
1 day
Winter Break
Feb 16–17
2 days
Faculty Work Day
Mar 13
1 day
Conference Day
Mar 25
1 day
Good Friday
Apr 3
1 day
Spring Break
Apr 6–10
5 days
Memorial Day
May 25
1 day
First Day: Aug 13 · Last Day: May 29 Official calendar ↗
AH
Ashley Hall
Private · Girls' School PK–12 · Downtown Charleston
43days off
Faculty Pre-Service Days
Aug 4–11
6 days
Labor Day
Sep 1
1 day
Fall Break
Oct 13–14
2 days
P/T Conferences (No Classes)
Oct 31 – Nov 1
1–2 days
Thanksgiving Break
Nov 24–28
5 days
Winter / Holiday Break
Dec 20 – Jan 2
11 days
MLK Jr. Day
Jan 19
1 day
Long Weekend / Presidents' Day
Feb 16
1 day
Good Friday
Apr 3
1 day
Spring Break
Apr 6–10
5 days
Memorial Day
May 25
1 day
First Day: Aug 12 · Last Day: ~May 29 Official calendar ↗
PA
Pinecrest Academy
Private · Catholic Classical K–12 · Mount Pleasant
44days off
Faculty Preparation Days
Aug 4–8
5 days
Labor Day
Sep 1
1 day
All Saints' Day
Nov 3
1 day
Thanksgiving Break
Nov 24–28
5 days
Christmas Break
Dec 22 – Jan 2
10 days
MLK Jr. Day
Jan 19
1 day
Presidents' Day / Winter Break
Feb 16–17
2 days
Faculty Work Day
Mar 16
1 day
Holy Thursday / Good Friday
Apr 2–3
2 days
Spring Break
Apr 6–10
5 days
Memorial Day
May 25
1 day
First Day: ~Aug 11 · Last Day: ~May 30 Official calendar ↗
AM
Academic Magnet High School
Public Magnet · Grades 9–12 · North Charleston (follows CCSD calendar)
36days off
Labor Day
Sep 1
1 day
Early Release Days (Teacher Planning)
Aug 29, Oct 31, Feb 13, May 1
4 half days
No School — Data Conferences
Nov 3
1 day
Election Day
Nov 4
1 day
Fall Break
Nov 24–28
5 days
Winter Break
Dec 22 – Jan 2
10 days
MLK Jr. Day
Jan 19
1 day
Presidents' Day
Feb 16
1 day
Teacher Workday
Mar 16
1 day
Spring Break
Apr 6–10
5 days
Memorial Day
May 25
1 day
First Day: Aug 12 · Last Day: May 28 · Follows CCSD calendar CCSD official calendar ↗
EC
East Cooper Montessori Charter
Public Charter · K–8 · Mount Pleasant (follows CCSD calendar)
36days off
Labor Day
Sep 1
1 day
Early Release Days
4 days per CCSD calendar
4 half days
No School — Workdays & Conferences
Nov 3–4
2 days
Fall Break
Nov 24–28
5 days
Winter Break
Dec 22 – Jan 2
10 days
MLK Jr. Day
Jan 19
1 day
Presidents' Day
Feb 16
1 day
Teacher Workday
Mar 16
1 day
Spring Break
Apr 6–10
5 days
Memorial Day
May 25
1 day
First Day: Aug 12 · Last Day: May 28 · CCSD calendar School website ↗
PC
Palmetto Christian Academy
Private · Non-Denominational K–12 · Mount Pleasant
42days off
Faculty In-Service Days
Aug 4–8
5 days
Labor Day
Sep 1
1 day
Fall Break
Oct 13–14
2 days
P/T Conference Day
Nov 3
1 day
Thanksgiving Break
Nov 24–28
5 days
Christmas Break
Dec 22 – Jan 2
10 days
MLK Jr. Day
Jan 19
1 day
Presidents' Day Weekend
Feb 16
1 day
Good Friday
Apr 3
1 day
Spring Break
Apr 6–10
5 days
Memorial Day
May 25
1 day
First Day: ~Aug 11 · Last Day: ~May 29 Official calendar ↗
JI
James Island Charter High School
Public Charter · 9–12 · James Island (follows CCSD calendar)
36days off
Labor Day
Sep 1
1 day
Early Release Days (Teacher Planning)
4 dates per CCSD
4 half days
No School — Conferences / Election Day
Nov 3–4
2 days
Fall Break
Nov 24–28
5 days
Winter Break
Dec 22 – Jan 2
10 days
MLK Jr. Day
Jan 19
1 day
Presidents' Day
Feb 16
1 day
Teacher Workday
Mar 16
1 day
Spring Break
Apr 6–10
5 days
Memorial Day
May 25
1 day
First Day: Aug 12 · Last Day: May 28 · CCSD calendar School website ↗

CCSD 2025–2026 — Full Calendar Reference

Download official PDF ↗
August 2025
Aug 4–11
Teacher Workdays & Professional Development
No Students
Aug 12
First Day of School for Students 🎒
First Day
Aug 29
Early Release — Teacher Planning
Early Release
September 2025
Sep 1
Labor Day — Schools Closed
No School
Sep 15
Progress Reports Distributed
Reports
October 2025
Oct 10
End of Q1 — Half Day, Teacher Planning
Half Day
Oct 13
First Day of 2nd Quarter
New Quarter
Oct 20
Report Cards Distributed
Reports
Oct 31
Early Release — Teacher Planning
Early Release
November 2025
Nov 3
Family Data Conferences / Teacher Workday
No School
Nov 4
Election Day — Schools Closed
No School
Nov 10
Progress Reports Distributed
Reports
Nov 24–28
Fall Break — Schools Closed
No School
December 2025
Dec 19
End of Q2 / First Semester — Half Day
Half Day
Dec 22–31
Winter Break — Schools Closed
No School
January 2026
Jan 1–2
Winter Break Continues — Schools Closed
No School
Jan 5
Teacher Workday — No Students
No Students
Jan 6
School Resumes — First Day of Semester 2
Resumes
Jan 19
Martin Luther King Jr. Day — Schools Closed
No School
February 2026
Feb 13
Early Release — Teacher Planning
Early Release
Feb 16
Presidents' Day — Schools Closed
No School
Feb 17
Progress Reports Distributed
Reports
March 2026
Mar 13
End of 3rd Quarter
End Q3
Mar 16
Teacher Workday — No Students
No Students
Mar 17
First Day of 4th Quarter
New Quarter
Mar 23
Report Cards Distributed
Reports
April 2026
Apr 6–10
Spring Break — Schools Closed
No School
May 2026
May 1
Early Release — Teacher Planning
Early Release
May 4
Progress Reports Distributed
Reports
May 25
Memorial Day — Schools Closed
No School
May 28
Last Day for Students — Half Day 🎓
Last Day

Total Days Off — School Comparison

School Federal Holidays Major Breaks Teacher Days Religious / Other Total Days Off
CCSD Public Schools6209036
Porter-Gaud School522111 (Good Friday)44
Ashley Hall52391 (Good Friday)43
Pinecrest Academy52263 (Holy Days)44
Palmetto Christian Academy52282 (Good Friday + 1)42
James Island Charter HS6209036
East Cooper Montessori Charter6209036

* Counts include full no-school days. Early release days and half days counted as 0.5. Teacher workdays included where students have no school. Does not include eLearning or weather makeup days. Always verify directly with each school.

📅 Premium Feature

Get your personal deadline calendar.

Premium members get a custom enrollment deadline calendar synced to their chosen schools — with reminders for application deadlines, open houses, and deposit due dates.

CS

School Advisor

Ask about any school or deadline

Hi! I can help you find the right Charleston school. What matters most — location, learning style, tuition, or something else?