Using the diary of Kim Stasny, superintendent of the Bay St. Louis-Waveland School District in Mississippi, and accounts from other superintendents from areas affected by Hurricane Katrina, the author describes the grim situation faced by schools in the days and weeks after the storm struck. He then discusses the importance of getting students affected by Katrina back into the rhythm of a normal school year, and the logistical and financial problems that plague school districts' efforts to do so. Despite the difficulties, there has been progress, thanks to the efforts of aid organizations and individuals from around the world.