Two hurricanes hit Florida’s Bay area within roughly two weeks. Trees are still down, and flooded areas have caused significant changes to school schedules throughout Hillsborough County Public Schools. Despite the challenges, officials are determined to keep school in session.

“The way they are making up the days isn’t too bad. We’re losing the Strawberry Festival Day and the early release days –which I don’t mind– but at least we don’t have to go into June. All in all, if we have to make up the days– which I’m not a fan of– I’d rather it be this way than losing some of our breaks or extending into June,” Mr. Channels said (CTE teacher).

Mr. Channels, who has been working at the school ever since it was built, is heavily involved with the school community. He recalls what the Florida Education Board did in 2004, when three hurricanes hit Florida in one year, forcing the school year to extend into June. Based on his experience, he believes the current plan for making up the school days is one of the best options.

Students weren’t present during 2004, aren’t familiar with the possibility of the school year being extended into June. One of the biggest changes to the schedules are the removal of all the early release days, which most students dislike.

“We do have time to make up, but we’re not making it up on specific days. Instead, we’re having an extra hour of school each week,” said Julia Guilarte (11).

Despite the disruptions, students are relieved that they still have all their breaks. Exams may also be adjusted or removed depending on individual grades and classes.

“I’m so very grateful that we have all of our breaks still. This is because I use this time to spend time with my family,” Guilarte said (11).