As Tropical Storm Idalia continues its path towards the Lowcountry, the Orangeburg and Williamsburg County School Districts have announced changes to their schedules in preparation for the storm’s arrival. With Idalia expected to make landfall in Florida as a major hurricane, South Carolina is bracing for its effects.
Both school districts have adjusted their schedules for Wednesday to ensure the safety of their students and staff. Elementary schools from kindergarten through fifth grade will dismiss at 11:30 a.m., with the exception of Dover Elementary School in Orangeburg County, which will dismiss at 12:30 p.m. Middle schools, K-12 schools, and Middle High schools will dismiss at 12:30 p.m. High schools will dismiss at 1 p.m., with the exception of Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School, which will dismiss at 1:30 p.m. All afterschool programs and athletic events, including practices and games, will be canceled on Wednesday.
On Thursday, both districts will have a delayed start of two hours, allowing time to assess any damage to the campuses. Plans for afterschool programs and athletic events on Thursday will be determined once the assessments are completed.
The school districts are closely monitoring the storm and are in contact with emergency management officials to make informed decisions regarding their operations. Updates related to district operations, school closures, or any other changes will be communicated through various channels, including the district websites, social media, and local media outlets.
FAQ:
Q: Why are Orangeburg and Williamsburg County School Districts adjusting their schedules?
A: The adjustments are being made in anticipation of Tropical Storm Idalia’s arrival in the Lowcountry.
Q: What grade levels will be dismissed early on Wednesday?
A: Kindergarten through fifth grade elementary schools will dismiss at 11:30 a.m., except for Dover Elementary School in Orangeburg County, which will dismiss at 12:30 p.m. Middle schools, K-12 schools, and Middle High schools will dismiss at 12:30 p.m. High schools will dismiss at 1 p.m., except for Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School, which will dismiss at 1:30 p.m.
Q: Will there be any changes to school operations on Thursday?
A: Both districts will have a two-hour delayed start on Thursday. Plans for afterschool programs and athletic events will be determined after the campuses are assessed for any damage.