MCDOWELL COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Governor Patrick Morrisey has announced that all West Virginia school districts will be fully operational as of this morning, marking a major milestone in the state’s recovery from recent severe flooding.
With McDowell County Schools reopening, all 55 counties in the state will once again be serving students.
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“I am so thankful for the educators, school staff, and state and local officials who worked around the clock to quickly recover and get kids back in school,” said Governor Morrisey.
“This is a significant achievement, and one that was made possible through teamwork and sacrifice. We know the work is not done, and we will continue to support southern West Virginia as they recover.”
The flooding that struck southern West Virginia three weeks ago caused significant damage, temporarily shutting down schools in the hardest-hit areas.
However, state and local officials worked swiftly to restore operations and ensure students could return to class.
“When disasters hit our state, our superintendents, educators and school personnel are among the first to respond to the needs of children and families,” said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt.
“McDowell County is no exception. From feeding the community to getting clothing and bare necessities collected and distributed, the school system did it all. I am so proud of what they accomplished so quickly to get children back to school and resume some level of normalcy. We will continue to support their recovery because we know there remains much work to do.”
McDowell County Schools Superintendent Dr. Ingrida Barker highlighted the dedication of school staff throughout the recovery process.
“I am humbled by the outpouring of support and love we have received in McDowell County,” said Barker.
“Our principals, educators, counselors and staff were committed to the students from the very beginning, even though many of them suffered flood damage to their own homes. We call it ‘McDowell Strong’ because we work together until the job is done. With our students returning to their schools in person, we will be able to resume instruction while also supporting them as they recover from this traumatic disaster that has touched everyone in our community.”
The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) has played a key role in recovery efforts under Governor Morrisey’s leadership.
WVDE staff assisted in emergency shelters, created back-to-school plans, ensured bus routes were marked in areas with damaged roads, and worked with affected counties to meet financial and equipment needs.
Additionally, meal boxes were made available for parents or guardians to pick up for their children.
