Laurens County Schools Set to Reopen After Storm Disruptions and Food Loss

Laurens County Prepares for School’s Resumption Following Storm Damage

Laurens County, SC – The Laurens County School District 56 (LCSD56) is set to welcome back students on October 14 after facing significant challenges due to recent storms. Superintendent Dr. David O’Shields confirmed that while schools sustained light damage, the true impact was felt in a substantial loss of food supplies.

Superintendent O’Shields noted, “We had a tree bend a fence at the playground. It’ll be an aesthetic fix but the biggest hit to the district was losing our food. I’ll bet we had to throw away nearly $200,000 worth of food.” This revelation highlights the financial strain the district has faced in the wake of the storm.

District’s Response and Support for Families

Cindy Jacobs, the Public Information Officer for LCSD56, has been working closely with the District Safety Officer, Joey Avery, to manage repairs and prepare for the students’ return. “All of our buildings are fine. We have a couple of roof leaks, a few trees are down but none of them hit the buildings,” Jacobs stated, emphasizing the district’s efforts to ensure the schools are ready. Maintenance teams have been proactive in inspecting schools to identify and fix any issues.

In an effort to maintain normalcy amid the disruption, the district continued with football practices, even as games were canceled or rescheduled. Dr. O’Shields expressed the importance of keeping students engaged, stating, “It’s a good way to get the kids to the school so coaches can check on them.” Some students experienced prolonged power outages at home, and the district took initiative to assist these families with food supplies.

Community Support and Meal Delivery

Clinton High School emerged as a crucial resource during this time, with the kitchen being used to prepare hot meals for families affected by the disaster. Jacobs noted, “We started delivering the food because they couldn’t get to us. We went to every apartment complex and every neighborhood in the district.” This outreach underscores the district’s commitment to support its community during challenging times.

Upcoming Return to School

As students prepare to return to school, Dr. O’Shields plans to use this experience as a teaching moment. “We’ll likely do a post reflection assignment to talk about things,” he shared. He acknowledged the emotional toll the storm had on families, stating, “We’re lucky and fortunate but looking at the most recent graphic, South Carolina has had the second largest loss of life next to North Carolina.” This approach reflects a desire to foster resilience and understanding among students.

Building Community as Students Return

School serves as more than just an academic environment; it is often a home away from home for many students. The anticipation for reconnecting with friends and teachers is palpable within the district. Dr. O’Shields remarked, “Our teachers are already coming in to check on things even when they don’t have to. I know we’re all looking forward to resuming some sense of normalcy.”

As the district approaches the resumption of classes, the focus remains on recovery and support for families, ensuring that students feel secure and encouraged as they transition back into their routines.