Apalachee High School began the first phase of its gradual reopening plan with an open house Monday morning.
The school closed after the fatal shooting on the school’s campus in early September.
Beginning Tuesday, students will return to school for half days then return to a full-time schedule after fall break on Oct.14., according to a release from the Barrow County School System.
BCCSS Superintendent Dr. Dallas LeDuff said the re-opening plan will allow students, families, and staff to reconnect and comfortably return to their routine.
“We know this isn’t easy,” said LeDuff. “We are all still navigating our way through adversity and emotions we may never fully understand. The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our top priority. We are committed to holding discussions with our community and safety experts about additional layers of security.”
As students begin to return, the school’s J Hall will remain closed. Social Studies classes that were held in the hall will be temporarily relocated to a nearby BCSS building on Star St. Busses will take students to and from classes until new classroom pods can be placed on campus. The school system anticipates the pods will be available by Jan. 2025.
AHS will also have increased law enforcement, counselors, therapy dogs, and other mental health resources available to all students and staff.
“This open house is an important step in reopening Apalachee High School to be here for our students and staff who need us,” LeDuff said. “I am proud and thankful to be a part of this compassionate and supportive community.”
