Columbia, S.C. Schools Modify Schedules and Services in Wake of Hurricane Helene

Columbia, S.C. Schools Adjusting Schedules After Hurricane Helene

As the community of Columbia, S.C. works together to recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, schools are making important decisions regarding their schedules to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being.

Classes Resuming in Most Districts

The majority of school districts are eager to return to a normal routine. The district will follow its regular schedule beginning on Thursday, October 3rd. This means that students can expect a full day of classes, and yes, all after-school activities and programs will take place as planned!

Fall Break Plans Still on Schedule

Students and families can still look forward to the upcoming fall break, which is set for September 30th to October 4th. So, keep those plans in place, whether for family visits, a stay-cation, or those little trips that everyone enjoys!

Game Postponement

However, not everything is back on track just yet. The eagerly anticipated game between Batesburg-Leesville and Strom Thurmond High School, scheduled for October 4th, has been postponed. The school district is keeping safety as the top priority during this time of recovery.

One-Hour Delay Implementation

Due to ongoing adjustments, the district will be operating on a one-hour delay for both Thursday, October 3rd and Friday, October 4th. Additionally, February 17th will serve as a makeup day, although officials are still deciding whether this will be virtual or in-person.

Midlands Technical College Set to Reopen

For those attending Midlands Technical College, rest assured that all campuses will reopen around 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Faculty and students alike can breathe a sigh of relief as they once again have a chance to engage in their educational pursuits.

Newberry County Schools to Close

In a different scenario, the School District of Newberry County has decided to close on Thursday, October 3rd and Friday, October 4th. But there’s good news for students needing meals: three food pick-up sites will be open during these days. These sites are located at Newberry High School, Mid-Carolina High School, and the Whitmire Community Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.. The district will also provide bus services for food delivery at various locations.

Details on Food Distribution

Here’s a quick rundown of where food delivery buses will be headed:

• 11:00-11:30 a.m.: Grants, Wise St., Pine Ridge Prosperity, and White’s Trailer Park
• 11:45-12:15 p.m.: Bethlehem Apartments, Newberry Arms, and Miller St. Prosperity
• 12:30-1:00 p.m.: Nance Forest, Church St. Prosperity

These locations will also provide internet access and charging stations for students’ devices, so they can stay connected, even as schools are closed.

Saluda County Schools Indefinitely Canceled

In Saluda County, however, it’s a different story. Schools there will remain closed indefinitely as the community continues to recover from the hurricane. The school district has made a statement, ensuring the community, “We will take this one day at a time and we will get through this together.”

Staying Informed

For everyone else wondering about schedule changes and closures, it’s crucial to stay updated. With the unpredictable weather and restoration efforts, things can change quickly. Keep an eye on your emails and announcements from the district to ensure you’re informed!

As we transition back into our regular routines, let’s all continue to support each other and stay connected. After all, it’s through community that we truly thrive, especially during challenging times.