Press release from Henderson County Public Schools:
Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) is excited to welcome back students next week after the impacts of Hurricane Helene. While 22 schools will resume their regular operations, Atkinson Elementary School experienced flooding during the storm, resulting in some damage that needs to be repaired before students and staff can safely return to the campus.In the meantime, HCPS is fortunate to have wonderful community partners who are helping so that they can continue serving students. The Fazio Family Boys and Girls Club of Henderson County has opened their doors, providing their beautiful facility for Atkinson Cougars to use while the repairs are being made. Starting Tuesday, October 15th Atkinson students will attend school at The Boys and Girls Club, located at 1304 Ashe St. Hendersonville, NC 28739.“We are incredibly grateful for the partnership with the Boys and Girls Club, which allows us to provide a safe environment for our Atkinson Cougars during this time,” said Superintendent Mark R. Garrett. “The good news is that we are already hard at work fixing the issues, and our goal is to have everything replaced and the building in tip-top shape by the time Winter Break arrives.”While the Boys and Girls Club is in a different location, this transition allows the Atkinson family to remain together. Thanks to the generosity, the entire Atkinson school community will relocate together, ensuring that students are still surrounded by the familiar faces of their teachers, administrators, school nurse, school resource officer, child nutrition staff, and all the other staff they know and trust.Student safety remains a top priority during this temporary transition. As in all school buildings, a comprehensive safety plan will be in place at the Fazio Family Boys and Girls Club. The school resource officer will be on campus, doors will remain locked, and the Ident-a-Kid check-in/out system will be utilized to ensure a secure environment for students and staff.Atkinson Elementary will continue to be led by its trusted administrative team, Principal Mark Page and Assistant Principal Andi Marshall, at the new location, ensuring continuity and support for students and staff. The Boys and Girls Club of Henderson County has also announced their new CEO, Kent Parent. With over 20 years of experience with Henderson County Public Schools, Mr. Parent’s extensive background fosters a strong partnership with HCPS, ensuring a smooth and successful transition during this temporary relocation.“Thanks to the hard work of our HCPS staff and the Fazio Family Boys and Girls Club of Henderson County, we’ve been able to build a new plan in only a few days. We wanted to ensure everything was in place before making the announcement, and we appreciate your patience and support throughout this process.” Superintendent Mark R. Garrett shared.
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