After two months away, the students and staff of Anna Maria Elementary School are finally returning to their campus on Monday, following disruptions from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

“Since Monday, September 30, 2024, in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Anna Maria Elementary’s students and staff have been attending classes at Stewart Elementary, the nearest mainland school in Manatee County,” the School District of Manatee County shared in a news release. “The storm surge from Helene greatly impacted Anna Maria Island, leaving residents and businesses without power for an extended time. Access to the island has been limited while recovery efforts have been underway, but thankfully, most of the school was spared major damage.”

Over the weekend, Anna Maria Elementary posted a heartfelt message on Facebook, featuring staff preparing for what they called their “3rd, and hopefully last, first day of school.”

In her November newsletter, Principal Dr. Katie Fradley reflected on the experience, calling it “fascinating” to see the inner workings of another school. “We have so much to be thankful for this month. I am thankful for each of you, proud of our flexible, dedicated staff and resilient students, and incredibly grateful to the Stewart community and their wonderful principal, Mr. Hoagland,” wrote Dr. Fradley.

Looking ahead, she mentioned plans to survey the school community to gather insights from their time at Stewart Elementary and explore practices that could enhance Anna Maria Elementary. Dr. Fradley added that a special thank-you gesture for the Stewart students and staff is also in the works.

(Image credit: WWSB)