Tornadoes hit the southeastern part of Hamilton County and north Georgia at about midnight on Monday, April 13. Eight people died, many were hospitalized, and hundreds of homes and busineses were damaged or destroyed. The Bright School was not in the path of the storm and suffered no damage. Several teachers, staff members and families were impacted by the storms. Distance learning, scheduled to resume on Tuesday after spring break, was delayed one day in hopes power would be restored to more homes.

Head of School O.J. Morgan wrote to parents in the weekly Woodshop newsletter:

Dear Bright School Community,

Without a doubt, these are trying times for us all. Last night’s storms wreaked havoc on our region, affecting many of our families and teachers. Everyone is safe, but the property damage was extensive, adding yet more to everyone’s burdens at present. One of our fellow schools, Grace Academy, was almost completely destroyed, which has widened our concerns for the larger educational community. I know you will want to keep them and everyone else affected by the storms in your prayers.

With so many of our teachers and families without power, we find it necessary to delay the resumption of our distance learning until Wednesday. We need to make sure everyone is able to connect with one another to make sure we stay consistent in our teaching and learning.

The Board of Trustees is meeting this week to discuss our plans as we look to the future. There is still uncertainty as to when we might or might not resume school, but that hasn’t slowed us down in putting together contingency plans for whatever we may face. Bright School is still in a strong position with both admissions and finances, but we will be prepared to work closely with our families in the future should economic stresses and strains begin to become more of a burden.

As I always say, we are strong and able to weather most anything, and these days are no exception. By staying connected and supporting one another, we will make it through these challenges stronger than ever. I’m grateful for your commitment to Bright School and the courage and persistence you’ve shown during these times.

Photo credit: Hamilton County Sheriff's Office