Good afternoon WCPS Students, Staff and Families –
We are heartbroken by the devastation in the Damascus area as a result of Hurricane Helene. Like we did during the tornado of 2011, now is the time for our school community to come together to lend a helping hand to our families and friends in need.
As a reminder, school is closed for Monday, September 30, 2024. Washington County Public Schools is encouraging our students and staff to assist in recovery and relief efforts with a Day of Community Service on Monday to help those in our community going through a difficult time. The Virginia Department of Education has graciously allowed us to count this day as one of our required days of attendance as there are few lessons we can learn that are better than helping out those in need.
For employees who would like to volunteer – here are some ways for you to do so:
Since parking is limited in the Damascus area, buses will be leaving Abingdon High School at 9am Monday for the Damascus area to help with clean-up efforts. Buses are expected to return to the Abingdon area around 3pm Monday. Please wear work clothes and bring any items you feel can assist with cleanup. It is also best to pack a lunch and bring bottled water, as resources are limited in Damascus. For those looking to volunteer, sign up here: https://forms.gle/f9xCbmBDezJsQZhh6
We will also have employees driving through our communities still without cell phone or landline service to check on our students and employees. Please plan to meet at Rhea Valley Elementary School at 9am Monday to assist with those efforts.
For students and families in our other school communities that would like to help – here are some ways for you to do so:
Abingdon High School, John S. Battle High School and Patrick Henry High School will be serving as central hubs to bring donations and supplies. All three high schools will be accepting supplies from 8am to 3pm Monday. Items will also be collected at the John S. Battle/Patrick Henry Football Game at JSB on Monday evening. Those items can be dropped off behind the gymnasium.
Needed Items Have Been Identified as Follows (If other needs are identified at a later time, we will continue to take collections in the coming weeks)
Water
Cleaning Supplies
Nonperishable Food Items
Pet Food
Teachers who want to organize student groups to help with specific efforts – Please email Dr. Perrigan to coordinate and discuss logistics.
The United Way of Southwest Virginia is also accepting donations for those devastated by flooding. All proceeds will directly support relief and recovery programs. The organization is collaborating with local government agencies, businesses, and fellow non-profits to ensure aid reaches those most in need swiftly and efficiently. Serving as principal at PHHS during the 2011 tornado, I saw firsthand how impactful and efficient the United Way of Southwest Virginia is during times like this. To donate to the United Way of Southwest Virginia, click here: https://unitedwayswva.charityproud.org/Donate/MiniCampaign/34132?fbclid=IwY2xjawFmdPFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHS-CVWfL_boWOJuQt5bb0ePzAbroJ8_GRneuI4TgDxgNt0kE40R9t2jQ1A_aem_4a6nG8bmCbcOQ_866fs1xw
Other Resources Available Sunday afternoon & evening
Showers Open at the Coomes Center in Abingdon until 6pm Sunday – No Membership Required
Dr. Tim Duncan will have the doors of Patrick Henry High School open until 8pm Sunday for those needing to charge phones, Chromebooks, etc. He asks that you come to the main entrance, and has coffee made, too.
As we navigate the coming days and weeks, we will continue our work to help our families. Traci Smith, Coordinator of Student Support and Mental Health will lead a team that will allow us to continue evaluating needs.
Please continue to pray for our students, families and friends in Damascus.
Thank you,
Keith Perrigan, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Washington County Public Schools
812 Thompson Dr.
Abingdon, VA 24210
276-739-3000
@WashCoSuper
“Committed to the Success of Every Student“
(Photos in Post Courtesy: Sen. Todd Pillion)