Schools Closed in North Carolina After Hurricane Helene

After Hurricane Helene's devastation in western North Carolina, many schools remain closed indefinitely, impacting tens of thousands of students. The storm caused substantial damage to infrastructure, leaving areas without power and clean water, complicating efforts for schools to reopen. Virtual learning is not feasible due to poor internet connectivity, and some districts anticipate students may miss up to a month of school. Educators are concerned about the long-term effects on students' emotional well-being and academic performance, drawing parallels to past hurricanes' impacts on education. Cleanup efforts are hindered by washed-out roads and bridges, with Buncombe County Schools still assessing when they can safely resume classes. The community is grappling with the urgent need for recovery while considering how to support affected families and students during this challenging time.