Flooding Forces Jefferson County Schools to Continue Remote Learning

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Jefferson County Public Schools students are continuing remote learning for a third consecutive day on Wednesday due to extensive flooding across the city. The district is experiencing significant challenges, with hundreds of bus stops submerged as a result of heavy rain that has impacted thousands of students attending more than 60 schools across the area.

According to Carolyn Callahan, a spokesperson for JCPS, school buildings have largely escaped major flooding issues, but accessibility remains a concern. “As we continue to monitor the impact flooding has had on areas of Louisville, we have not seen improvement in the condition of hundreds of our JCPS bus stops,” Callahan said. “Flooding and road closures make stops unsafe and inaccessible, affecting thousands of students who attend more than 60 of our schools.”

This Wednesday marks the district’s eighth day of nontraditional instruction for the 2024-25 school year. Nontraditional instruction days do not need to be made up, meaning the school calendar remains unchanged until the district reaches its 11th NTI day.

In addition to JCPS, Bullitt County Public Schools also reported no damage to their facilities, although many roads in the area are still flooded. The American Red Cross has set up a temporary shelter at Lebanon Junction Elementary School.

School officials have canceled all extracurricular activities and athletics for the day. With the ongoing flooding, the district is closely monitoring the situation.

As rain continued to fall throughout the region, Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency on April 2. The devastating weather system has already resulted in at least four confirmed fatalities across Kentucky, prompting an urgent response from state emergency officials.

Mayor Craig Greenberg stated that the Ohio River is expected to crest at over 35 feet, nearing levels not seen since 2018. Emergency management services have begun to prepare for possible evacuations as the water levels continue to rise. Greenberg emphasized the importance of public safety, urging residents to avoid flooded areas and not engage in activities such as kayaking in high waters.

Governor Beshear confirmed that over 142 rescues have been carried out throughout the state since the flooding began, which are vital as many communities remain under the threat of rising water levels. Authorities have also reported that 272 evacuations by boat have been made, emphasizing the ongoing risk the flooding poses to local residents.

As recovery efforts begin, community organizations and the National Guard are mobilizing to provide assistance where needed. Relief efforts include sheltering families as they deal with the aftermath of the flooding.

For updates on school closings, the JCPS district urges families to stay informed through official channels. They are committed to supporting students and families affected by this extreme weather situation.