Severe weather threat prompts school closures, cancellations

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – Several local school districts and private schools announced changes to dismissals and after-school activities ahead of possible severe weather.

Take a look at the messages disseminated by school officials:

Appling County Board of Education

Due to ongoing inclement weather conditions, the Appling County School System announces a precautionary measure for the safety of our students. All bus rider students will remain sheltered in place at their respective schools until further notice.

We understand the importance of timely communication. Therefore, an update regarding the status of bus releases will be provided promptly at 3:30 PM. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay informed through official communication channels, including our school website and social media platforms.

In the interest of student safety and convenience, car rider students will be dismissed directly to their parents or designated guardians.

The Appling County School System remains committed to prioritizing the well-being of our students and staff during adverse weather conditions. We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our school community during this time.

Beaufort County School District

Please be advised that all BCSD afterschool activities, including childcare, are canceled because of forecasted severe weather.

The first strategic plan community meeting to be held at St. Helena Elementary School is also postponed due to tonight’s forecasted severe weather.

Calvary Day School

Calvary Families, due to the current weather conditions, and our partnership with the Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA), we have made the decision to close campus today at 2:00pm. Bus routes will begin at 1:30pm, and all after-school activities are canceled and will be rescheduled. Your child’s safety is our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding and partnership.

Effingham County School District

Due to the potential for severe weather this evening, all ECSD afternoon and evening activities have been cancelled and will be rescheduled. Thanks for your understanding.

First Christian Academy

First Christian Academy, Richmond Hill – In anticipation of severe weather this afternoon, All aftercare classes/activities, to include gymnastics will be cancelled for the day. All students must be picked up by 3:15 PM.

Savannah-Chatham County Public School System

Based on the most recent information received this morning from the National Weather Service, severe weather is expected to arrive in our area this afternoon and continue into the evening hours. Main threats include rain and extreme wind gusts that could be as strong as 60mph at or around normal dismissal times creating serious concern for school bus travel on our roadways. There is also a potential for tornadoes to develop with this system.

In the interest of safety for both our students and staff, the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System will operate on an early release day today and students will be dismissed early. All afterschool activities are canceled including athletic activities, 21st Century Community Centers, and the YMCA After School programs.

Schools will dismiss on the following schedule today including bus riders, car riders, and student walkers. This information can also be found online at the District’s website.

11:30 am for all High Schools, PLUS Godley K-8/Wings ES/Building Bridges MS and CGCA at Jenkins HS

11:40 am Building Bridges HS for all Middle Schools (except Mercer)

12:15 pm Mercer MS, Ellis, Garrison, IOH, Georgetown, Hesse, and New Hampstead K-8

1:15 pm all Elementary Schools PLUS Rice Creek K8 and Coastal GA Comp on Cynthia Street

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause our families, but the district prioritizes safety for both students and staff. Families who have additional questions should contact their school. We thank you for your support of Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools.

Screven County School System

Because of the threat of severe weather this pm, the SCES Superhero event has been canceled for Thursday, May 9, 2024 and will be rescheduled for a later date.

ATTENTION: The SCMS Band Concert that was scheduled for tonight, May 9, 2024, has been canceled due to weather.

Tattnall County Board of Education

(3:00 p.m.) Dismissal will begin at this time for all Tattnall Schools. Please be patient as students arrive home later than normal.