Asheville City Schools held a significant board meeting, marking its first regular session since Hurricane Helene, which caused considerable disruption and loss within the community. The meeting commenced with a moment of silence to honor those affected by the disaster, reflecting the district's commitment to supporting its community during this challenging time.

Board Chair George highlighted the resilience and solidarity displayed by community members, emphasizing the importance of ongoing support as recovery efforts continue. He acknowledged the board's communication with Superintendent Dr. Fuhrman and staff, expressing gratitude for their dedication to the community.

Dr. Fuhrman provided updates on the district's initiatives, including the launch of \"bridge learning\" programs aimed at helping students process the recent events while engaging in social and emotional activities. The program welcomed 246 students across grades K-12, with high school volunteers actively participating, fostering a sense of community and mentorship.

Additionally, the district organized college application support sessions, which saw a strong turnout of 90 students, demonstrating a proactive approach to academic support. The William Randolph campus has also become a vital resource hub, serving approximately 440 families and relying on the efforts of 180 volunteers to distribute essential supplies.

The meeting concluded with a call for community support, particularly for specific resource needs such as washcloths, towels, and batteries, as the district continues to navigate the aftermath of the hurricane and work towards restoring normalcy for its students and families.