Rock Hill Schools Maintain Classes Despite Tropical Depression Debby’s Flooding and Heavy Rain
ROCK HILL, S.C. – Unperturbed by the heavy rain and severe flooding brought about by Tropical Depression Debby, students in Rock Hill returned to school on Thursday. As reported, heavy rain caused major flooding and consequent road closures throughout Rock Hill and the larger Charlotte area. During the day, more than 100,000 residents in the Carolinas had no power.
Parents Express Concerns
In the midst of these weather disruptions, a number of anxious parents reached out, questioning the decision to continue the school during the severe weather condition. Barton Glenn, a local resident, expressed concern over the safety of children travelling to school amidst the chaotic weather condition. “If there is a travel advisory in place that advises against travelling unless it is an emergency or for safety, I think that should include school buses and children,” he said. “My kids would not have gone to school today if they were scheduled to.”
School’s Stance on the Situation
Rock Hill Schools Superintendent Dr. Tommy Schmolze issued a statement in response to the district’s decision to continue with school. He stated, “Some families decided today to keep their students at home, and we fully endorse our parents’ and guardians’ decision. For those of you who reached out, we encouraged safe travels and did not make any late entries today to ensure families had ample time to travel cautiously. We took attendance, but the main aim was to know which students were on campuses.”
According to the Rock Hill Schools, all their buses got back by just after 6 p.m., verifying that everyone safely reached and returned from school.
Tropical Depression Debby and Its Impact
Tropical Depression Debby has been wreaking havoc in the Carolinas, leading to major flooding, road closures, and power outages across the region. Despite the concerning weather circumstances, the Rock Hill school administration decided to continue with the school day, a move that’s sparked debate among parents regarding the safety of their children.
Moving Forward
With the ongoing extreme weather condition, the Rock Hill Schools’ administration, educators, parents, and students, along with the larger community, are hoping for improved weather that doesn’t disrupt the daily operations of education.
While the decision to hold school amidst the weather chaos has stirred discussion and earned some criticism, the safe return of all the students to their homes provides a certain level of reassurance for all concerned. However, the community waits to see if any adjustments will be made in the operational plans of the educational institution to better cooperate with the unpredictable weather conditions in the future.
