Columbia County students will return to class this week and the school district has provided some more information on what’s expected to happen.
On Monday, Oct. 7, limited staff members will return to prepare welcoming back all employees on Tuesday, Oct. 8. Students who are able to return to school will do so on Wednesday, Oct. 9 and Thursday, Oct. 10.
A professional development day is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 11, so there will be no school for students. Schools will be closed for Columbus Day on Monday, Oct. 14.
MORE: Richmond County students to return to classroom in mid-October
Staff questions
For staff attendance, the school district said that some employees are still facing challenging circumstances and should notify their immediate supervisor to address individual situations.
Student attendance
When it comes to student attendance this week, the school district said any students who miss the two days will not be counted as absent.
“Students will not face any negative repercussions for not being able to come to school on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024, and Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, including exam exemptions or other attendance-related requirements,” the school district said.
MORE: Augusta University breaks down damage to campuses following hurricane
Transportation questions
Drivers will test routes on Monday, Oct. 7 and Tuesday, Oct. 8. Temporary shuttle bus stop might be needed instead of stops at individual driveways. If this happens, parents will be directly notified about any changes to bus stops or routes.
Update on nutrition services
The school district said the facilities maintenance and operations team, along with school nutrition staff, has monitored freezers/coolers and generator operations throughout the week. The district added that nutrition managers at each school double checked inventory last week.
Health inspectors from the Department of Public Health will visit school kitchens on Monday, Oct. 7 to make sure they are able to safely serve students and staff. Revised menus will be shared on the website and social media.
Meal services will proceed as normal on Wednesday, Oct. 9 and schools will serve pre-packed items, along with entrees delivered fresh from food distributors.
Update on facilities
As of Sunday, the school district said only two schools, Blue Ridge Elementary and Brookwood Elementary, were still waiting for power to be restored.
“They are estimated to be up and running in the next two days. If power is not restored, we will notify parents directly with enough lead time to prepare to keep students home,” the district said.
While debris cleanup and repairs to school campuses are continuing, the district said the schools are safe for students and staff to return.
For updates, visit ccboe.net.
