Hurricane Helene Update: Schools in Columbia Resume with Delays, Newberry County Closes for Recovery Support

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Hurricane Helene Update

As the City of Columbia and the surrounding areas continue to recover from the effects of Hurricane Helene, many local schools are notifying families about important changes to their schedules. The combination of bad weather and power outages has created quite a ripple effect, but here’s what you need to know if you’re a parent or student.

School Schedules Resuming

First off, good news for those itching to get back to their normal routines! The local district plans to resume normal schooling on Thursday, October 3rd. This means classes, lunch, and all your favorite after-school activities will be right on schedule. However, it’s important to note that schools will have a one-hour delay on that day, so don’t forget to set those alarms a little later!

Fall Break Plans

Coincidentally, students will enter a previously scheduled fall break starting on September 30th and continuing through October 4th. That means even though school is back in session briefly, students will have some time off right thereafter. It’s a good reminder to re-stock those snacks and maybe think about planning some quality time with family and friends!

Postponed Activities

Now, for the sports fans out there, there’s a small hiccup. The highly anticipated game between Batesburg-Leesville and Strom Thurmond High School originally slated for Friday, October 4th has been postponed. Keep your fingers crossed for a new date so we can all cheer on those teams once again!

Special Plans for Food and Support

The School District of Newberry County has also made some significant decisions amid this recovery period. They will be closing schools on Thursday, October 3rd and Friday, October 4th to ensure residents can focus on recovery. But they haven’t forgotten about the kiddos! Three food pick-up sites will be operational to help make sure students have meals: Newberry High School, Mid-Carolina High School, and the Whitmire Community Center will offer food from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on those days.

Buses will be delivering food to specific locations including Grants, Pine Ridge, and several other neighborhoods at set times, making it even easier for families to access what they need. Additionally, these locations will provide internet access and charging stations for students who rely on their devices for assignments.

About eLearning Options

Since many areas are still experiencing power outages, the district has confirmed that eLearning won’t be an option for students during these closure days. In light of this, no assignments will be issued, allowing families to focus on recovery, which is a relief for many parents and students alike.

Looking Ahead

As for those in Saluda County, they are still facing a challenging situation. Schools there are closed indefinitely while the community works together to recover from the storm’s impacts. The school district expressed that “We will take this one day at a time and we will get through this together.” It’s a great reminder that resilience and community spirit can help us all bounce back.

Keep an eye out for further updates and closures as the situation evolves. The key here is to stay informed, prepared, and connected as we navigate the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and support one another in these times.