The Columbia County School District (CCSD) is gearing up for the first day of the 2025–2026 school year on Monday, Aug. 4, with new principals, upgraded nutrition services and expanded transportation safety measures.
According to a press release from CCSD, four schools will welcome new principals this year: Melissa Culpepper at North Harlem Elementary School, Ashlee Odom at Greenbrier Elementary School, Valery Reed at Harlem Middle School, and Marlo Leatherwood at Columbia County Alternative School.
Families will also have the chance to prepare at back-to-school open houses.
High schools held events on Tuesday, July 29, from 3–5 p.m., with middle schools following from 5–7 p.m. that evening. Elementary school open houses are set for Thursday, July 31, from 5–7 p.m.
During the event, parents can meet teachers, pick up schedules, learn about bus routes and join school organizations.
Meanwhile, registration for all students is conducted online through the Parent Portal, according to a press release from CCSD.
Families of returning students should update their annual information, while new families must create an account to upload required documentation, including proof of residency, immunization records and birth certificates.
For those without computer access, schools will provide assistance by appointment.
The district is also highlighting changes in its school nutrition program for the 2025-26 school year.
“Our team works diligently to procure nutritious foods that meet the highest standards, while also ensuring 100% compliance with USDA nutrition guidelines,” according to a press release from CCSD.
This year’s updates include expanded allergen-friendly options, interactive online menus at ccboe.net/menus, and participation in the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program at seven schools.
All CCSD cafés recently earned perfect scores on Department of Health inspections. Student meal prices remain at $1.75 for breakfast and $3.50 for lunch.
Meanwhile, the CCSD Transportation Department has prepared its fleet of 300 buses to serve more than 16,000 students daily.
According to CCSD, buses will run practice routes the week before school starts, and parents are advised to have students at their stops 15 minutes early during the first few weeks.
The district is also encouraging families to use the “Find My Bus Stop” tool and the Edulog Parent Portal Lite app to track bus information.
The first days of school may bring minor delays as drivers implement extra safety precautions, especially for new riders, according to a press release from CCSD.
As a reminder, car line and student driver traffic will be held until buses depart campus to prioritize safety.
For more details on registration, bus routes, and nutrition updates, visit ccboe.net.
