City Adjusts School Operations Amid Ongoing Power and Internet Outages
In response to the widespread impact of Hurricane Helene, several school districts across different counties have announced significant changes to their operations, prioritizing the safety of students, staff, and families. Power and internet outages are still affecting many areas, causing disruptions in transportation and learning.
Pickens County Schools Takes Precautionary Measures
The School District of Pickens County declared that Friday, Oct. 4, will be an eLearning day due to ongoing power outages and hazardous road conditions. Approximately 15% of the county remains without power, and transportation staff have assessed that many roads are unsafe for school travel. The district aims to return to normal operations on Monday, Oct. 7. eLearning days allow classes to resume without extending the school year. The district assures families that they will provide full support and flexibility regarding assignments, considering the challenges many are facing.
Greenville County Schools Cancels All Activities
Greenville County Schools announced the cancellation of all activities, including athletics, through Sunday, October 6. This decision is a direct response to unsafe transportation routes and the community’s unstable power supply. Reducing traffic will help first responders and utility crews focus on recovery efforts.
University Updates Across the Region
USC Upstate has canceled all classes for the rest of the week and will resume operations on Monday. Despite the closure, essential staff will continue to work remotely to support students and families. The university advises everyone to monitor their email and official social media channels for more information.
Limestone University canceled classes on Wednesday, Oct. 2, with decisions concerning future classes to be made daily as conditions improve. Staff will communicate with employees regarding their work schedules.
Spartanburg Community College will remain closed through the week from October 1 to October 4, permitting students to rest without the pressure of online classes or assignments due during this period.
Changes in Anderson County Schools and Beyond
In Anderson County, school operations are suspended for the remainder of the week. All districts in the area are closed from October 2 to 4. However, some schools like Flat Rock Elementary and Iva Elementary will remain open on Wednesday, Oct. 2, for families to access charging stations for devices and receive free food from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Clemson University announced a closure across all campuses and canceled classes for Monday, September 30, while UNC Asheville also remains at Condition 3 and will remain closed until at least Monday, October 7, due to the lack of power and utilities.
Ongoing Support for Students and Families
Asheville City Schools declared an indefinite closure while ensuring families remain informed with updates via social media and a provided community resource document. They’ve partnered with local providers to offer WiFi and charging stations.
Teachers across various institutions have been instructed to allow flexibility in assignments, recognizing the struggles students face amidst the recovery efforts. Schools across all counties are continuously monitoring conditions in their areas and will provide timely updates as situations evolve.
Ultimately, the focus for all school administrations remains on the well-being and safety of students and staff while navigating the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Communities are urged to support each other during this period of recovery.
