Buncombe County Schools announce plans to reopen

Classes in the Owen District to resume, October 25

Fred McCormick
The Valley Echo
October 18, 2024

Buncombe County School students, including those in the Owen District, will return to class, Oct. 25, one month after Tropical Storm Helene caused widespread damage throughout the region. Photo by Fred McCormick

Local students are returning to class, Friday, Oct. 25, Buncombe County Schools announced in an Oct. 18 press release. 

Teachers, staff and bus drivers will report to work, Wednesday, Oct. 23 and Thursday, Oct. 24, while the first week of classes will operate on a two-hour delay. 

BCS students last attended class, Sept. 25, two days before Tropical Storm Helene severely damaged or destroyed power, water and internet infrastructure throughout the region. 

“Since the hurricane hit, much work and thought have gone into a reopening plan. As of today, non potable water service, power and internet is restored to all 45 schools,” BCS stated in the press release. “We have started delivering drinking water for staff and students to all schools. Maintenance crews are finishing repair and restoration work, and technology teams are reconnecting security and communication systems.”

BCS transportation teams continue to coordinate with administrators to develop new bus routes and community bus stops, due to damaged roads and washed out bridges, the release continued. 

“The two-hour delay schedule will allow our bus drivers to get accustomed to these new routes after sunrise,” officials said. “Because school will be operating on a two-hour delay schedule, Oct. 31 will no longer be an early dismissal day.”

The county school system plans to release additional information regarding bus routes and stops the week of Oct. 21. 

“Our Student Services team has been working equally hard to prepare for the emotional wellbeing of our students and staff,” BCS said. “We are grateful for the support of additional counselors from neighboring school systems who will come alongside our own teams to support our school family.”