Hurricane Helene Forces School Closures in Greenville County

Empty schoolyard with strong winds and cloudy skies.

Hurricane Helene Forces School Closures in Greenville County

Greenville, S.C. – Schools in the Upstate region are taking necessary precautions as Hurricane Helene approaches. Greenville County Schools has announced it will remain closed on Monday due to the adverse conditions caused by the storm. The decision aims to ensure the safety of students and staff amid significant infrastructure challenges.

Assessment Team Works Overtime

On Friday, a dedicated team from the Greenville County Schools assessment group traveled over 9,000 miles throughout the county to evaluate road conditions. The team meticulously recorded over 1,500 safety issues that rendered many roads unsafe for travel. These issues include downed powerlines, obstructing debris, closed bridges, sinkholes, and non-functioning traffic signals.

E-Learning Canceled

In light of these challenges, the district announced that there will be no eLearning opportunities on Monday. Additionally, all previously scheduled activities and field trips have been canceled. With more than half of the teachers lacking adequate internet access, the decision to halt online learning was deemed necessary.

Awaiting Further Decisions

Officials from the district indicated they would make an announcement on Monday afternoon regarding whether students will return to class on Tuesday. This decision will depend on the recovery of road conditions and power restoration efforts.

Pickens County Schools Prepare to Resume

Conversely, Pickens County Schools will resume normal operations on Monday. However, the transportation staff will not operate on any roads deemed impassable. A detailed list of these unsafe routes is expected to be made available to the public. This ensures parents and guardians know which roads are safe for travel.

Community Collaboration and Safety

As the situation develops, the community is encouraged to stay informed about road conditions and school announcements. The local authorities are actively working alongside schools to ensure the safety and well-being of families throughout the region.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as Hurricane Helene impacts the Upstate, Greenville County Schools remain closed, while Pickens County Schools prepare to operate. This coordinated response reflects a commitment to student safety in the face of uncertain conditions.