Safety and Attendance
Welcome to the Office of Safety and Attendance. Our mission is to ensure every student has a secure, welcoming environment to learn and the support they need to show up ready for success every day.
We believe that school safety and regular attendance go hand-in-hand. This portal serves as your central resource for emergency protocols, campus safety updates, attendance policies, and supportive interventions for families facing barriers to daily school attendance. Together, we build a community where every child is safe, present, and accounted for.
Your report can prevent a tragedy.
Immediately report any crimes, suspicious behavior, or school threats.
DIAL 911 FOR ALL EMERGENCIES & THREATS
Contact your child’s school or Dr. Chauncey Malachi to connect with school social workers, counselors, and community partners dedicated to supporting student well-being and family needs.
Coordinator of Alternative Education and Student Services
116 Edwards Road
Chesterfield, SC 29709
843-623-5104 ext 1205
Attendance
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Truancy is absence from school without the knowledge of parents/guardians or absence from school without acceptable cause with the knowledge of their parents/guardians.
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Chronic absenteeism is typically defined as missing 10% or more of the school year for any reason—including excused absences, unexcused absences, and suspensions. In a standard 180-day school year, that is just 18 days (or about 2 days a month).
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It adds up faster than you’d think. Research shows that by the time a student misses 10% of the year:
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Early Years: Kindergarteners and first graders often struggle to learn to read.
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Middle School: It becomes a primary "red flag" predictor for dropping out of high school.
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Academics: It creates "learning gaps" that make it harder to keep up with new concepts.
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Yes. While an excused absence (like a doctor's visit) is better for a student's record than skipping, the educational loss is the same. The teacher and the rest of the class move forward regardless of why a desk is empty.
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It’s rarely just "laziness." Common hurdles include:
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Lack of reliable transportation.
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Chronic health conditions (like asthma or anxiety).
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Safety concerns on the way to or at school.
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Unstable housing or family responsibilities.
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Routine: Set a regular bedtime and morning habit.
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Preparation: Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.
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Scheduling: Try to plan medical appointments and vacations for non-school days or after-school hours.
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Communication: Talk to the school early if you notice your child is resisting going to school; there might be an underlying issue like bullying or academic struggle.
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Need Support?
We’re Here to Help.
Contact your child’s school or guidance counselor, or reach out to Dr. Chauncey Malachi, to connect with school social workers and trusted community partners who are ready to support student well-being and family needs.
Dr. Chauncy Malachi
Coordinator of Alternative Education &
Student Services and Administration
843-623-5104 Ext. 1205