AMHERST COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
School Administration Office
153 Washington Street
Amherst, VA 24521
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Office of the Superintendent
Dr. William Wells
(434) 946-9387 [email protected]
Amherst County Public Schools Continuing to Monitor Matt’s Creek Fire
(Amherst, Virginia-November 16, 2023)-For Immediate Release
As everyone is aware, there is currently a wildfire burning in Bedford County and we are seeing smoke in many areas of our community today. The safety and well-being of our students, staff, families, and community are our top priorities and we want to assure you that Amherst County Public Schools is actively monitoring the situation.
Amherst County Public Schools, Public Safety, County Administration, and local fire departments are working closely with the US Forest Service, Air Resource Advisors assigned to the Matt’s Creek Fire, and other critical partners to keep our community safe. We will continue to communicate with all parties to ensure that we are receiving the most up to date information and recommendations so we are well prepared to respond to any developments.
An Air Resource Advisor assigned to the West Central Virginia Matt’s Creek Fire is providing updates to County Administration and Amherst County Public Schools. The Air Resource Advisor is setting up monitors in the county and will continue to monitor air quality. At this time there is no recommendation to alter our school schedule based on the current air quality. The Air Resource Advisor did recommend that people stay indoors where the air is treated. As a result, all students and staff will remain inside buildings. Recess and P.E. will take place indoors as well.
We will continue to closely monitor the situation, keep our school community informed, and provide timely updates as needed. The safety of our students and staff will remain our primary consideration when making any decisions in regards to our school operations. Updates can be found through our school division website, social media platforms, and school messenger system.
If you have any concerns or questions, please contact the Amherst County Public Schools Administration Offices.