Pinellas schools remain closed indefinitely due to storm

Pinellas County schools remain closed indefinitely following the devastation wrought by Hurricane Milton, which has affected over 90,000 students in the district. The storm's winds surpassed 100 mph, resulting in power outages at 80 of the 128 schools and causing structural damage to five facilities. Superintendent Kevin Hendrick has indicated that the district is focused on assessing the damage and determining a path forward for students and staff. The closures are a precautionary measure to safeguard student well-being as recovery efforts commence. With the local power grid severely impacted, officials are prioritizing restoration and safety.

Community leaders are urging patience as the district navigates this crisis, which highlights the vulnerability of educational institutions to natural disasters. The ongoing situation emphasizes the need for comprehensive disaster preparedness in local school districts. As recovery progresses, the district aims to communicate with families about future plans and support available during this challenging period.