Nov. 5, 2004 – Addelita Cancryn Junior High School will reopen on Monday, but only for teachers and staff.
Students are to return on Tuesday, William I. Frett, St. Thomas and St. John superintendent of education, announced in a press release received by the Source Friday night.
The school has been closed since a fire caused serious damage to several classrooms Tuesday. (See "Midnight Fire Cancels Classes at Cancryn").
"Cleanup and preparation for the resumption of classes following the devastating fire that occurred on Tuesday evening was our top priority," Frett said. "The remaining buildings needed to be made safe for both staff and students before being reopened for classes."
"Damage was extensive and involved the total destruction of classroom roofs, electrical and water service and all furniture, books and materials that were housed in each of the classrooms impacted by the fire," Frett said.
He added that two bathrooms had been severely damaged enough to require replumbing before they can be used.
"As crews restored electricity to the entire campus, removed all debris and secured the damaged buildings, administrators worked to develop a schedule to accommodate the new classroom assignments and expedited processing for the replacement of instructional materials and equipment," he said.
Friday Gov. Charles W. Turnbull issued a proclamation that will speed processing procedures for needed materials for the school. (See "Educators Get Update on Cancryn, Kean and Web Site").
In the release, Frett expressed his extreme disappointment with not being able to conduct regular school activities during the recovery period, as well as appreciation to the school staff who responded to the crisis and to parents and students for their cooperation and patience.
"Obviously, everyone involved wants our schools to function properly and students to be able to attend each day of instruction," Frett said. "However, the Department of Education and the Office of the Governor are making every effort to minimize disruption to classroom instructional time and expedite the recovery."
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