JOHNSON COUNTY, Ga. — Johnson County School District students are back after almost two weeks at home due to Hurricane Helene.
Superintendent Christopher Watkins says when they first canceled school on Sept. 27, they did not expect to be out this long. Due to power outages and needing time to get schools ready, they put off reopening.
Watkins said not every student is back quite yet. The district is offering a virtual option for students whose families are still recovering.
“We did in person for everyone but realized that there were kids that were probably not going to be able to come because they still don't have their power restored at home,” Watkins said. “We kind of did a blended option. Those kids that could come in, we want to make sure that they were surrounded by their friends, back to a regular routine again. But those kids that that could not come in, we are offered a virtual option. A lot of them do their work on their phones.”
High school senior Jonathan King said he's glad to be back.
"I'm excited to come back to school because it was a little boring sitting at home,” he said. “Nothing to do. Not seeing your friends for a couple of days."
Abby Wilson said she enjoyed the break.
"It was kind of fun,” she said. “Like not having to go to school but also hectic because no lights and no internet, but we got through it."
Freshman Chance Wombles said after almost two weeks at home, it feels different walking in the building.
"The hurricane had a big impact on the community,” he said. “It brought everyone closer together. Being out of school was a plus, but at the same time, there's still a lot of people with damaged homes and a lot of people couldn't leave."
Watkins said Johnson County School District has a little over 1,000 students enrolled. He said having a virtual option ensures families who are still recovering from Helene don't feel punished.
Wilson said there's one part of being home she will miss.
"I'm ready to get back into a routine, but also I miss sleeping in," she said.
Watkins said the athletic complex suffered damage from the storm, but the school buildings are fine. He said the district plans to continue to support students with available counselors and resources over the next few weeks.
According to Washington EMC, 439 customers out of almost 3,000 in Johnson County still do not have power.