Dorchester, SC – In the face of Tropical Storm Debby, Dorchester School District 4 (DD4) has demonstrated its commitment to community safety by opening its doors as a resource in the storm response effort. On Monday, August 5th, at 8 p.m., DD4, Dorchester County Emergency Services, and the American Red Cross opened Woodland High School as a community and pet-friendly storm shelter.
DD4 district staff members were called to assist in getting the shelter ready to open. Ms. Nancy Ross, DD4’s Food Services Manager at Woodland High School, was among those who stepped up. Tasked with ensuring that shelter residents and emergency workers were well-fed, Mrs. Ross and her team reported early Tuesday morning to prepare a hearty breakfast.
In addition to the food service efforts, Dorchester County Fire and Rescue enlisted the help of DD4 to provide buses for evacuation purposes. Three dedicated drivers responded to the call, helping transport residents from areas threatened by rising waters to safety.
At the opposite end of the district, Clay Hill Elementary was repurposed as a staging area for the Alabama Water Rescue Team 3. This team, which arrived to assist Dorchester County's Swift Water Rescue Team, will play a vital role in managing rescue operations throughout the region.
Interim Chief of Operations Mr. James Martin coordinated this effort, ensuring that the team had the necessary support to conduct their critical work effectively.
We are deeply thankful for the courage and dedication of our emergency management teams and immensely proud of the DD4 staff who have risen to the occasion. Their selfless efforts are a testament to the strength and resilience of our community.
As Tropical Storm Debby continues to impact the region, Dorchester School District 4 will remain on alert and ready to assist emergency agencies.