Asheville Schools Ready to Welcome Students Back After Hurricane Helene Disruptions

Asheville Schools Prepare for Return After Helene

Asheville, N.C. is buzzing with excitement as students and teachers get ready to return to the classroom next week following the disruptions caused by Hurricane Helene. It’s hard to believe it’s almost time for the school bells to ring again, and there’s a lot to share about what’s in store for the students of Asheville City Schools (ACS).

A Shortened Schedule at First

Next Monday, October 28, students will have a shortened school day. Elementary school children will head to school from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., while secondary school students will start a bit later, attending from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.. This same schedule will also be in place for Tuesday, October 29. But don’t worry! Regular hours will kick back in starting on Wednesday, October 30, making things feel just a little more normal again.

Important Changes to the Academic Calendar

The ACS Board has also made some changes to the 2024-25 academic calendar. Superintendent Dr. Maggie Fehrman shared that what was once an optional teacher workday on November 1 will now become a full school day for the kids. In addition, an early release day originally scheduled for January 17 will now stretch into a full day of learning, too. These modifications might seem small, but they’re important steps to help make up for the 123.5 hours of class time missed thanks to Helene.

Planning for the Future

Even after these adjustments, the district is still looking at ways to recover the lost time. Superintendent Fehrman mentioned, “We hope to add some programming over the summer.” This is potentially good news for families who are concerned about their student’s progress due to missed lessons. They are also exploring options for grant funding, which could provide opportunities for teachers to offer tutoring before or after school, or even at alternative times during the day.

Transportation Updates

Beyond what kids will learn, there’s also news regarding transportation routes. Families can expect updates in the Chipmunk app or directly through the parent portal. Keeping everyone informed is a top priority as these routes adapt to the return of schools being in session. Be sure to keep an eye on your notifications!

Looking Ahead with Optimism

For everyone in Asheville, this return to school signifies a step toward normalcy. As students gear up with their backpacks and pick out their outfits for the first days back, the community rallies around them—in support of their return and in celebration of what’s to come. There’s a lot to look forward to, and it’s heartwarming to see educators and parents come together during this time.

So, mark your calendars, Asheville! Next week promises to be the start of new adventures. Whether it’s reconnecting with friends, diving back into lessons, or just getting back into the rhythm of school days, the excitement is palpable. It’s time to head back to class!