Laurel County schools close for the rest of the academic year due to tornadoes

With 17 deaths and massive damage from weekend tornadoes, Laurel County Public Schools has officially ended the 2024-2025 school year as of Friday, May 16, district officials announced Tuesday.

The last day for students was scheduled for Thursday, May 29, officials said.

In the days since two tornadoes touched down in Southern Kentucky on Friday night — one in Russell County and one in Laurel County — Laurel County schools officials have been in regular contact with the Kentucky Department of Education discussing allowances under current legislation that best meet the needs of students, staff, and community, district officials said in a statement.

“This decision to end the school year will allow us to focus on our students and employees who have been adversely impacted, as we continue to coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies in the restoration of services to our community,” the statement said.

“We are saddened that our students will not be able to enjoy the typical last week of school activities,” the statement said.

Family Resource and Youth Service Centers will continue contacting and coordinating services for affected families. Additional information will be shared on individual school websites and Facebook pages regarding specific school announcements and graduation.

Graduation is still scheduled for Saturday, May 31, officials said.

This story was originally published May 20, 2025 at 1:05 PM.