A historic ice storm hit Oklahoma on October 26th, leaving mass destruction and many stuck inside without power.  The storm caused several trees to break off, falling dangerously and blocking the roads, damaging power lines, and resulting in a mass blackout, from which some are still recovering. Edmond Public Schools (EPS) worked quickly to find solutions to get back to school.

School resumed Thursday, October 29th with the entire district instructed to learn remotely. On Friday, in-person school resumed without bus service. The decision to return to school Friday affected students differently.

“I was able to get out of the house just fine because we don’t have any trees, but someone I know was trapped in their apartment because a tree fell and blocked the path,” virtual student Braden Schlegel said.

Students who remain without power are concerned about keeping up with assignments. However, EPS is working to address the concerns of parents and students. District Administration is currently working with school staff members to extend deadlines for students and request that they are flexible with students who still don’t have power or Wi-Fi. 

Susan Parks-Schlepp, Director of EPS Community Relations, said, “Since the pandemic began, the district has been very mindful of the importance of connectivity… The district sent a letter to all families that if they did not have home Internet/Wi-Fi, EPS would provide their students with a Wi-Fi Hot Spot… The application to receive the Hot Spots remains on our website.”

With the weather clearing up and clean up of the aftermath ongoing, Edmond administration and teachers will continue to work with students to ensure their success.