Special to the Herald

The Effingham County School District will resume classes at normal start times Thursday, Oct. 3, according to a district press release sent Wednesday afternoon.

Schools have been closed since Friday, Sept. 27, and students were released early Sept. 26 due to Hurricane Helene.

“First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the linemen from across the area who have worked tirelessly over the past week to help restore power and bring our community back on its feet, District Superintendent Dr. Yancy Ford said in the release. “Their dedication and hard work are deeply appreciated.

“I would also like to personally thank the Effingham County School District Maintenance Department for their commitment and long hours in ensuring that our school buildings are safe and ready for our students' return. Their effort has been instrumental in our recovery process,” Dr. Ford added.

Dr. Ford reported that power has been restored to approximately 87% of the county – including all school campuses. For the 13% of the county’s families who still have not had power restored as of Wednesday afternoon, Dr. Ford added, “We understand that some students will not be able to make it to school on Thursday or Friday. We will not hold that against them. Our goal is to try and create some sense of normalcy for our students and families.”

And while students will not be required to wear school uniforms on Thursday and Friday, parents are asked to make sure their students are dressed appropriately.

“We will show grace to our students, staff, and families as we re-open. It will be very important for us to take small steps over these next few days,” Dr. Ford added.

Dr. Ford added that the district will resume its normal schedule next week:

Monday and Tuesday (Oct. 7 and 8) - normal school days

Wednesday (Oct. 9) - Early Release -- Parent Teacher Conferences

Thursday (Oct. 10) – staff work day/ no school for students

Friday and Monday (Oct. 11 and 14) - Holiday for Students - Fall Break

The school district did not indicate when or if the missed school days will be made up later in the school year.