Asheville Schools Prepare for Student Comeback Following Hurricane Helene Devastation

Asheville Schools Gear Up for Student Return After Hurricane Helene

Asheville, N.C. is buzzing with excitement as both Buncombe County Schools and Asheville City Schools announce their plans for students to finally return to school after the recent challenges brought on by Hurricane Helene. Excitement, mixed with anticipation, is in the air as families prepare for the upcoming changes in the school schedule.

Buncombe County Schools’ Reopening Plan

On Friday, the Buncombe County Board of Education gave a thumbs up for a detailed reopening plan. Teachers and staff, including vital members like bus drivers and nutrition team members, will commence their Return to Work days on Wednesday, October 23, and Thursday, October 24. This is a significant step as the first day of school for students is set for Friday, October 25.

But hold on! Before everyone rushes back to their desks, there’s a twist. All student days from October 25 through November 1 will be on a two-hour delay. This delay is essential as it will give bus drivers time to adjust to new routes that have been revamped due to damage from the hurricane—think washed-out bridges and roads. The extra daylight will help ensure the safety and efficiency of bus operations.

Adjustments to the School Calendar

In light of these changes, parents should also note a couple of important calendar updates. First off, October 31, which was originally planned as an early dismissal day, will no longer be early due to the new schedule. Furthermore, the first semester will now stretch out a bit longer, wrapping up on January 24, 2025.

As families gear up for the changes, the district pledges to keep everyone in the loop about bus routes during the week of October 21. With communication being key, parents are encouraged to reach out to their school’s principal if they have any questions or concerns.

Efforts to Restore Normalcy

“Since the hurricane hit, much work and thought have gone into a reopening plan,” district officials said. The great news is that non-potable water service, power, and internet have been restored to all 45 schools, making way for a smooth transition back to classes. Furthermore, the district has taken the necessary steps to ensure that drinking water is available for both staff and students.

Maintenance crews are currently finalizing repairs and restoration, while tech teams are busy reconnecting all essential systems. The district hasn’t overlooked the emotional health of its students either. The Student Services team has been pulling together support from neighboring districts, bringing in additional counselors to help everyone feel at home again.

Asheville City Schools’ Plans

Meanwhile, Superintendent Dr. Maggie Fehrman of Asheville City Schools shares a similar outlook. At all campuses, they’re making sure that non-potable water is accessible while they work diligently to identify additional sources of drinking water for students. This is also key as they plan for students to return to full learning days after the hiccup caused by the hurricane.

District leaders are collaborating closely, ensuring that everything is in place for the schools to be ready and welcoming when students step through those doors again. Dr. Fehrman is optimistic and confident that schools can reopen on Monday, October 28.

A Community Coming Together

Despite the difficulties, Asheville is coming together beautifully. With the combined efforts of Buncombe County Schools, Asheville City Schools, and local charter schools, the community is working to ensure a safe and supportive return for all students. It’s heartening to witness the dedication and teamwork among all involved, proving once again that this community truly shows Together We Rise!

As families prepare for the return and the school community pulls together, let’s remember to support each other during this transition back to normalcy.