Buncombe County Schools faces student displacement and budget challenges post Hurricane Helene

The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners held a budget work session on May 2, 2025, focusing on the ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, which struck the area in September 2024. The hurricane was described as the worst natural disaster in North Carolina's history, resulting in significant damage to the community, including the loss of four students and extensive damage to school facilities.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the challenges faced by the school system, including the displacement of families and the emotional toll on students and staff. Over 1,200 students have been identified as homeless or displaced, with many living in temporary accommodations. The school system has been proactive in providing support, including delivering over 100,000 bottles of water daily to schools and ensuring that educational facilities could reopen as soon as possible.

The discussion also addressed the budgetary implications of the hurricane's aftermath. The school system faced a reduction of approximately $3.9 million in funding, which impacted personnel costs, as 84% of the budget is allocated to staff salaries. Despite these challenges, the school system managed to avoid cutting positions by utilizing its fund balance.

Enrollment trends were another key topic, with a noted decline in student numbers following the hurricane. The school system had previously seen a slight increase in enrollment but reported a loss of 251 students since the storm. Officials expressed hope for recovery as they work to rebuild trust and relationships with families affected by the disaster.

The meeting underscored the importance of emotional support for students and staff as they navigate the long-term effects of the hurricane. The school system is preparing for potential challenges in the upcoming school year, emphasizing the need for a safe and supportive environment for all students.

As the budget process continues, the school system aims to address these challenges while ensuring that every student receives the support they need to succeed. The commissioners are expected to consider these factors as they finalize the budget for the upcoming year.