WARE COUNTY, Ga. – All schools in Ware County will be closed on Friday due to a “logistical challenge” created from the high school football team making playoffs.
Superintendent Bert Smith announced Monday that the Ware County High School football team, alongside the band and cheerleaders, will be representing the school system in the regional playoffs.
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“Due to the number of buses and drivers required for the trip, we are unable to run both regular afternoon bus routes and playoff transportation simultaneously with the current shortage of drivers, buses, and subs,” Smith said in a statement.
The team will be facing North Oconee High School in Bogart, Ga., which is approximately a five-hour drive each way.
“This closure ensures the safety and well-being of all students, allows our playoff teams to compete at their highest level, and highlights our school system’s commitment to supporting excellence in all areas of student achievement,” the statement said.
The announcement follows nearly a month-long closure of the district due to the damages caused by Hurricane Helene.
“We understand this decision comes after missed days due to Hurricane Helene, and we do not take it lightly,” Smith said. “We appreciate your understanding and continued support as we cheer on our Gators! Let’s wish our students, coaches, and band directors the very best as they represent Ware County with pride.”
Bus driver shortages remain a pressing issue as last week Camden County, Ware’s neighboring county, had to delay bus services due to high school athletic events.
