Rekha Kakkar
Updated on: October 14, 2024 9:27 pm GMT
As Hurricane Helene approaches South Carolina, school districts across the Lowcountry are taking precautions to ensure the safety of students and staff. With tropical storm warnings issued for numerous counties, many schools are shifting to eLearning and adjusting their schedules. Local education leaders are working to keep families informed and safe as weather conditions worsen.
Schedule Changes in Lowcountry School Districts
As Hurricane Helene moves closer, several school districts have announced significant schedule changes:
- Berkeley County School District: An eLearning day is scheduled for Friday. All after-school activities will end early, at 6 p.m. on Thursday.
- Charleston County School District: Schools will switch to eLearning on Friday, with all extracurricular activities, including high school sports, cancelled.
- Dorchester District 2: Parents will need to prepare for an eLearning day on Friday, with all Thursday after-school events cancelled.
- Dorchester District 4: After-school activities have been cancelled for Thursday, and eLearning will occur on Friday.
- Beaufort County School District: An eLearning day is planned for Friday, pending the functionality of utilities.
- Colleton County School District: This district will dismiss early on Thursday and start late on Friday.
- Georgetown County School District: Classes move online for Friday.
- Orangeburg County Schools: All after-school activities are cancelled, with an eLearning day set for Friday.
Universities Take Precautions
Higher education institutions are also adapting to the storm:
- Clemson University: Closing its Upstate locations by 7 p.m. Thursday and moving classes online for Friday.
- Bob Jones University: Starting classes later at 10 a.m. on Friday.
- South Carolina State University: Classes cancelled for Thursday evening, with a three-hour delay on Friday.
- Tri-County Technical College: All campuses will close on Friday.
- USC Upstate: Classes will be virtual starting Thursday at 2 p.m.
- Anderson University: Moving to online classes and remote work for Friday.
- Greenville County Schools: Scheduled an eLearning day for Friday, with plans for in-person classes on Thursday.
Impact Beyond South Carolina
The storm’s effects are reaching areas beyond South Carolina, with schools in North Carolina also feeling the impact:
- Buncombe County Schools: Closed for students on Thursday and Friday, both days are optional teacher workdays.
- Henderson County Public Schools: Closed for students and staff on Friday.
- Union County Schools: Transitioning to eLearning for Friday due to forecasts.
- School District of Pickens County: eLearning day scheduled for Friday, with no evening activities on Thursday.
School Responses to Family Concerns
As schools adjust their schedules, they also express understanding toward families affected by the storm:
The Lee County School District reported no severe damage after an initial assessment taken post-Hurricane Helene’s arrival. “If there are any issues, parents will be notified,” they stated.
Collier County Public Schools shared, “We respect each family’s decision concerning their children’s attendance during this time.” If parents choose to keep their children at home, they are encouraged to inform the school.
Final Thoughts
Hurricane Helene is bringing significant weather changes that school districts must navigate carefully. Each district’s primary focus remains on the safety and well-being of students and staff. As more updates come in, schools will continue to adapt and inform families about changes to schedules. Stay safe and be prepared for inclement weather as Hurricane Helene progresses through the region.
To stay updated, you can check your local news and the school district’s website.
