Palm Beach County Schools to Remain Closed Until Tuesday
Tornadoes Wreak Havoc, Damaging Homes and Injuring People
Palm Beach County schools will remain closed on Friday, following a day of destructive tornadoes that brought devastation to various communities in the region. The decision was made by Palm Beach County Schools Superintendent Michael Burke, citing concerns for the safety of students and employees.
During a news conference on Thursday, Burke stated that while most of the county is in good shape, some areas were severely affected by the tornadoes. Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, who flew over the hard-hit areas, described the damage as akin to a "war zone," with destruction resembling an "atomic bomb blowing up."
Schools Ready to Reopen on Tuesday
The closure will allow for extra time to ensure that safety precautions are in place for the 182 campuses. Burke apologized to families who would need to return to work, saying that the district had to prioritize the safety of its students and employees.
The decision was made with the previously scheduled teacher planning day on Monday in mind. Burke explained that the extra day would give the district sufficient time to address power and air-conditioning issues in some buildings, as well as complete the necessary cleanup.
Broward Schools to Reopen on Friday
In contrast, Broward County schools will resume classes on Friday, following a similar closure on Wednesday and Thursday. The school district took precautions by monitoring its 236 public schools and technical colleges through cameras and physical inspections. The teams found no major issues or flooding, aside from some minor concerns.
How Did the School Districts Respond to the Storm?
- Palm Beach County Schools: The district will remain closed on Friday, with a return to classes on Tuesday.
- Broward County Schools: The district will reopen on Friday, following a previous closure on Wednesday and Thursday.
FAQs
Q: Why did Palm Beach County schools decide to remain closed on Friday?
A: The school district prioritized the safety of students and employees, citing damage from tornadoes and power/air-conditioning issues in some buildings.
Q: How many schools were affected in Broward County?
A: 236 public schools and technical colleges were monitored through cameras and physical inspections.
Q: What is the plan for the return to school in Palm Beach County?
A: The district will resume classes on Tuesday, with teacher planning day on Monday.
Q: Are Broward County schools ready for students to return?
A: Yes, the district has confirmed no major issues or flooding, aside from minor concerns.
