Manatee County School District announces when students will return to school

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The School District of Manatee County has announced a return date for students after schools were forced to close due to Hurricane Milton.

Students will return to school Tuesday morning, district officials said, “thanks to the tireless work of school district maintenance, custodial and food service operations teams, as well as school principals and their staff.”

District officials said all of its schools have power, including the Manatee Technical College.

However, officials asked parents to treat Tuesday like the first day of school, and to be patient as bus routes could be delayed and unexpected power outages could be possible. Parents should make sure their child’s path to the bus stop is clear of debris.

“We are aware and understand that many of you — like many school district employees — continue to face challenges,” district officials said in a letter to parents. “Our hearts are with all of you and your families during these difficult times. It is our hope that a return to school can provide a sense of normalcy for your students and families and that this can be a significant step on the road to recovery.”

Quarter 1 grades are expected to be finalized “in a flexible manner.”

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