SARASOTA, Fla. (WFLA) — As a new school year starts, flood victims are preparing to head back to school.
Sarasota County was among the hardest hit by Hurricane Debby, but despite the damage and setbacks for local families, both public and private schools are vowing to open as planned on Monday.
The flooding has taken a toll on everyone and as families work to rebuild, the thought of going back to school is adding to their stress.
VIDEOS: Sarasota sees major flooding amid record rainfall
“I took her and got what I could — a few outfits for school coming up. I mean, all the stuff that she had — everything, mine and her clothes, shoes — all that it is all gone,” the father said.
Leggett and many other Sarasota residents were forced to start over after Hurricane Debby.
“But even our teachers have been affected. Some have lost cars, some still can’t get back into their homes. But all of them will be on the job,” Sarasota County Schools Board member Thomas Edwards said.
The storm brought heavy rain and flooding to neighborhoods throughout the county.