Haywood County Schools will be closed with Optional Workdays on Thursday, August 19 and Friday, August 20. This follows significant impact from Tropical Storm Fred. There will not be remote learning on August 19 and 20.

Today and tomorrow we will be working to determine the overall damage related to the school system. We are working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for authorization to re-enter impacted facilities for cleanup and repair purposes. We are checking the specific impact on all bus routes. We continue to work with other public partners to assist in the operation of shelters located on school property and other matters related to the impact of Tropical Storm Fred. We cannot thank our County partners enough for their work and support.

They have been amazing. We ask for public patience as we work through the appropriate steps to reopen schools. We are so proud of our school community. As in the past, the community has responded to a crisis situation with hard work and determination. Thank you from the Haywood County Board of Education, our administration and staff.

The Board of Education has scheduled a remote Emergency Meeting tomorrow evening. The meeting will be Thursday, August 19 at 5:00 p.m. We hope to have additional information and updates at that time. Be kind, be smart and be safe.

Please see Update 1, released earlier today, for additional information.

Contact: Dr. Bill Nolte, Superintendent