Dear New Rochelle Community:
I am writing to share the daily update on the cleaning and repair of Isaac E. Young Middle School and New Rochelle High School, both of which were damaged by excessive flooding from what was Hurricane Ida.
I am pleased to report that students returned to Isaac E. Young today for in-person learning and instruction. Extensive work over the weekend by multiple construction crews and custodial crews from other schools worked until early this morning to ensure the school was safe, clean, and ready to receive students. Some work on two additional basement classrooms, a computer lab, woodshop, and music room are being completed this week. Additionally, work continues on the cafeteria floor, which received extensive damage.
Moreover, we just learned that the missing tent poles (from the tent we are borrowing from another school district) will be delivered this week. We are working to secure a date for when the tent will be operational. Again, this will provide additional covered outdoor space for students to eat their meals while the cafeteria is repaired.
At New Rochelle High School, a specialized crew began removing storm-impacted furniture. The furniture will be cleaned and stored while the high school is repaired. Crews continue to remove damaged walls to expedite the drying of interior spaces. Again, the amount of sewer-water damage to the building is extensive.
Asbestos teams were at the site doing final checks and calculations on the amount of material that needs to be removed. Our facilities team is working with general contractors and architects to begin assembling multiple crews that will be deployed to the school site. In addition to construction teams, these include mechanical and electrical contractors.
I appreciate all the emails regarding the challenges with virtual learning, which began today for high school students. Tomorrow, I am visiting two potential locations that could be used for in-person learning. We will share more information as it becomes available.
Sincerely,
