ATLANTA — In response to the tragic shooting incident at Apalachee High School, Barrow County school officials have announced that students will return to campus for half-days starting next week. The devastating event, which occurred on September 4, resulted in four fatalities and nine injuries.
Beginning September 24 through October 4, classes at the high school will commence at the regular time of 8:15 a.m., concluding with an early dismissal at 12:40 p.m. Following this period, a scheduled fall break will occur, with full-day classes resuming on October 14.
The school system aims to provide a “comfortable pace” for the 1,900 students of Apalachee, as officials emphasize a gradual return to regular routines. Meanwhile, the district’s additional 13,000 students have already resumed classes last week, with Superintendent Dallas LeDuff reporting over 90% attendance.
Apalachee Principal Jessica Rehberg assured the community of a “thoughtful, gradual return” to school, focusing on the well-being and comfort of each student during this challenging time.
To enhance safety, increased law enforcement presence will be stationed at the school, alongside an expanded team of counselors and resources such as therapy dogs to support students and staff.
The section of the school where the shooting occurred, J Hall, will remain closed for the rest of the academic year. Social studies students will be temporarily relocated to a facility approximately 4.5 miles away, dubbed “Chee East,” referencing the local nickname for the high school.
Plans are also in place for temporary classroom spaces to be established on campus by January.
An open house is scheduled for Monday morning to welcome students and families to the main campus and the satellite building. Students will have the opportunity to create art for a mosaic project that will be displayed at the high school.
The tragic shooting claimed the lives of teachers Richard Aspinwall and Cristina Irimie, along with students Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo. Additionally, eight others were injured, with seven suffering gunshot wounds.
Colt Gray, a 14-year-old student, faces adult charges including four counts of murder, with further charges anticipated related to the injured individuals. Authorities have also charged Gray’s father, alleging he provided his son with access to the firearm despite knowing the potential risks.
