Rekha Kakkar
Updated on: October 12, 2024 1:41 pm GMT
As tropical storm warnings loom over the Lowcountry, several educational institutions are adjusting their operations to ensure the safety of students and staff. Effective Monday, September 16, 2024, Horry County Schools, Georgetown County Schools, and Coastal Carolina University will implement significant changes in light of the severe weather forecast.
Horry County Schools Transition to eLearning
Horry County Schools (HCS) has announced it will switch to an eLearning format for all students on Monday. The decision was made based on updated weather reports that indicate potentially severe weather conditions due to an approaching tropical storm. According to a statement from HCS, all physical school buildings will be closed, but students will still engage in their learning online.
Details of the eLearning Day
Key points regarding the transition to eLearning include:
- All students and staff will operate on an eLearning schedule.
- Students unable to access the online platform due to power outages or lack of technology will have the chance to complete their assignments later.
- Teachers will provide students with instructions and resources on Monday morning.
- All athletic and extracurricular events planned for the day will be rescheduled.
- Most school employees will work remotely, with exceptions for certain staff like nutrition service providers and bus drivers, who will not report to work but may have alternative schedules provided by supervisors.
For further updates, HCS encourages individuals to check their website and social media channels.
Georgetown County Schools Announce Closures
In Georgetown County, all schools will close on Monday in response to the incoming storm. The school district emphasized the importance of safety for all students and staff. Like Horry County Schools, Georgetown County Schools will also ensure that students receive necessary communications regarding assignments and resources.
Weather Preparedness and Safety Measures
Officials are urging both students and parents to stay informed about weather developments. The ABC 15 Weather Authority Team has declared Monday a “Weather Aware Day” for the affected regions. This designation encourages communities to prepare and stay vigilant as weather conditions evolve.
Coastal Carolina University Changes Operations
Coastal Carolina University (CCU) has taken similar precautions by closing its campus on Monday. All classes will be canceled, and students are advised not to venture out.
Horry Georgetown Technical College Switches to Virtual Learning
Horry Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is also moving to remote learning. The college has announced:
- All in-person classes and activities will be canceled.
- Courses will shift to an online format, allowing students to continue their education without interruption.
- Students on clinicals or internships are advised not to attend in person during this period.
These institutions are committed to ensuring a smooth transition to virtual learning while prioritizing the health and safety of their students and staff.
What Students and Parents Should Do
As the storm approaches, here are a few steps students and parents can take to prepare:
- Check all school communications, including emails and social media updates, for detailed instructions.
- Ensure that your devices are charged and connected to the internet to facilitate eLearning, if applicable.
- Develop a quiet workspace at home to aid in concentration during online classes.
- Stay updated on weather alerts through reliable local news sources and official weather channels.
Conclusion
With tropical storms forecasted in the area, Horry County Schools, Georgetown County Schools, Coastal Carolina University, and Horry Georgetown Technical College are taking proactive measures to safeguard their communities. By implementing eLearning days and transitioning to virtual classes, these institutions aim to continue education while prioritizing safety and well-being. As the situation develops, stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and prepared.
To get the latest updates, check the websites of each school or university. You should also keep an eye on local news for any weather alerts.
