Rock Hill Schools Remain Open Despite Major Flooding from Tropical Depression Debby
Rock Hill, S.C. – On Thursday, amidst severe flooding and torrential rain as a result of Tropical Depression Debby, students in Rock Hill returned to school. Major flooding across Rock Hill and the greater Charlotte area caused the closure of numerous roads throughout the day due to over 100,000 Carolina residents remaining without power.
Community Raises Safety Concerns Over Severe Weather Conditions
Several parents expressed their concern about the safety of students traveling to school during these severe weather conditions. Many believed that travel advisories put out during such extreme weather should apply to school buses and children as well. Resident Barton Glenn stated, “If they put out a travel advisory that says do not travel unless it’s an emergency or you’re fleeing for safety, I think that should include buses or children.”
School Authorities Stands by Their Decision
In response to these concerns, Rock Hill Schools Superintendent Dr. Tommy Schmolze issued a statement supporting the district’s decision to keep schools open. “Some families chose to keep their students home today and we fully support our parents and guardians to make that decision. We encouraged safe travels to those of you who reached out and did not mark tardies today to ensure families had time to travel with caution.”
He also added that while they did take attendance for knowing which students were present on campuses, they ensured that families had time to travel with caution and did not mark tardies today.
Effective Management Ensures Safety
Despite the unsurmountable weather challenges, Rock Hill Schools confirmed that all their buses reported safely by 6 p.m., thereby ensuring all students made it to school and back home safely. Though Tropical Depression Debby caused an array of issues, strict safety and transportation protocols followed by Rock Hill Schools ensured that their students remained safe throughout this severe weather event.
