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Schools in Texas Hill Country have transitioned into relief centers following the destructive summer floods, and students are now preparing to resume their studies.

School district in Texas accelerates opening due to flood crisis

Schools in Texas Hill Country have been repurposed as relief centers following the devastating...
Schools in Texas Hill Country have been repurposed as relief centers following the devastating summer floods, with students now resuming their academic activities.

Schools in Texas Hill Country have transitioned into relief centers following the destructive summer floods, and students are now preparing to resume their studies.

In the heart of Texas, schools in the Hill Country region have stepped up as critical support systems during natural disasters, transforming into relief hubs offering shelter, food, and a place to regroup for emergency responders, volunteers, and affected community members.

The Kerrville district, for instance, has adopted the longtime coaching motto of Reece Zunker, "You'll never walk alone," as a guiding promise to the community. This motto echoes the district's unwavering commitment to standing with their community in times of crisis.

The district became a site for first responders to come in and support the community during the flood relief efforts. Schools like Tivy High School opened their doors early, repurposing facilities such as classrooms and gyms into sleeping quarters, break rooms, and laundry areas. This infrastructure supported operations like housing first responders and distributing meals provided by organisations like Mercy Chefs and World Central Kitchen.

During the devastating floods that swept through the Texas Hill Country on July 4, the Hunt Independent School District served as a refuge for emergency responders and volunteers. The science lab in the district became a break room, outfitted with a microwave and shelves of beef jerky and coffee. Tivy High School, in particular, housed 90 game wardens from the Texas Department of Emergency Management.

However, the impact of such natural disasters on students and staff can be severe. Tragically, in nearby Kerrville, a beloved teacher and coach, along with his whole family, were among the victims. No currently enrolled Kerrville students were killed, but former students were among the victims. The emotional scars from a summer of frightening water rescues and devastating loss loom as Hill County students return to school this week.

In response to these challenges, both the Hunt and Kerrville school districts have expanded mental health resources this year. This includes around-the-clock counseling access, therapy dogs on campus, more community events, and free school supplies for all students. Local educators are determined to help students heal and bring joy back to them.

Camp La Junta, a youth camp in the region, was also devastated by the floodwaters. Camp owner Katie Fineske called the Kerrville district superintendent for help, as her camp was in dire need of transportation for 400 campers. The district rallied to support the camp, providing the necessary resources to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the campers.

The floodwaters in Kerrville inundated homes and businesses, overturning furniture and coating walls in mud. More than 60 district families in Kerrville were directly affected by the flood. At least 135 people, including more than 35 children, were killed in the catastrophic Central Texas flooding.

Despite these challenges, the spirit of community and resilience remains strong in the Texas Hill Country. Schools and community organisations are working together to help those affected cope with the aftermath and rebuild their lives. As the waters recede, the region looks forward to a brighter future.

  1. During these difficult times, both the Hunt and Kerrville school districts strive to provide not only education-and-self-development for their students, but also generous general-news support by expanding mental health resources and collaborating with community organizations to aid those affected by the floods.
  2. As a sign of unity and solidarity, the Kerrville district, like first responders and volunteers, stands with their community not just in education-and-self-development, but also in times of crisis, embodying the coaching motto, "You'll never walk alone."

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