Charleston, SC – School Districts Move to E-Learning Due to Hurricane Helene
In response to the approaching Hurricane Helene, several school districts in the Lowcountry have announced they will switch to e-learning on Friday, September 27, 2024. The decision comes as the hurricane is forecasted to make landfall in Florida and bring severe weather conditions, including tropical storm warnings and tornado watches, to the region.
Districts Affected
The affected districts include:
- Charleston County School District
- Berkeley County School District
- Georgetown County School District
- Dorchester School District Two
- Dorchester School District Four
- Orangeburg County School District
Officials from each district confirmed the transition to remote learning as a precautionary step to ensure the safety of students and staff. During this time, educational activities will continue online, allowing students to maintain their learning despite the external circumstances.
Staff and Student Adjustments
According to the Berkeley County School District (BCSD), all staff members will work remotely on Friday. Parents and students were notified that all extracurricular activities, including after-school programs, are canceled for the day. However, football games scheduled for Friday night will still take place, as confirmed by the Charleston County School District (CCSD).
The CCSD also announced that all after-school activities and care programs would close by 6 p.m. on Thursday. This includes any scheduled events and initiatives that would typically take place on campus. Similarly, Dorchester School District Four (DD4) and Orangeburg County School District (OCSD) reported that they are also canceling after-school activities on Thursday in advance of Hurricane Helene’s impact.
Effect on Local Services
In addition to schools switching to e-learning, local services are also adjusting their operations. The Dorchester County Career & Technology Center will be closed and will follow e-learning protocols for Friday.
Community libraries in Charleston County have also taken precautions by closing early on Thursday due to the impending storm, ensuring the safety of library staff and patrons.
Looking Ahead
As Hurricane Helene approaches, it is crucial for residents in the Lowcountry to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and advisories. The transition to e-learning provides a temporary solution to continue education while keeping everyone safe in the face of potential weather-related disruptions.
Parents and students are encouraged to check their respective school district websites for more specific details regarding e-learning arrangements and any resources that may be available during this time.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as Hurricane Helene progresses and its impact becomes clearer.