Dear New Rochelle Community:
I am writing to share today’s update on the repairs 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 happy to report that our restoration efforts continue to progress well. At New Rochelle High School, repairs and cleanup efforts are now ahead of schedule, and we remain on track to reopen our high school to students on Monday, Nov. 1.
This week, we are finishing work in the B Wing, Zone 3, and furniture will be reinstalled. Next week, crews will focus on completing items on the project’s punch list of tasks. Custodial crews are already cleaning completed areas, and, as these photos show, the refurbished areas are almost ready to accommodate students, faculty, and staff in environments conducive to academic, social and emotional development. New Rochelle High School leadership soon will be communicating with faculty and staff about the transition to resuming in-school learning.
At Isaac E. Young Middle School, newly laid concrete floors in the cafeteria, two classrooms, and an office continue to cure. That must be completed before additional work and cleanup can take place. We remain on schedule for the Nov. 1 reopening of these areas.
The torrential rains from what was Hurricane Ida struck our region six weeks ago. A herculean effort was immediately launched to assess damage, perform a massive cleanup, rebuild and renovate – all while ensuring our students continued to learn. We do understand and acknowledge the limitations and frustrations that online/virtual learning create. Last Friday’s pep rally at New Rochelle High School reinforced the importance of what being on campus means to our students and staff. More than 1,000 attended the rally, and it was wonderful to feel the energy, see the exuberance, and experience our community and school pride – together.
Behind the scenes, our construction, repair, and restoration teams have been at work making that return possible. These crews have been working marathon days, through weekends and holidays. Watching this work advance, powered by a blend of expertise, innovation, dedication, and fortitude, has been inspiring.
Again, I offer a sincere thank you to everyone in our school district and the teams from outside companies performing the restorations. We join them in looking forward to safely returning education areas to our students, faculty, and staff. I can’t wait to welcome everyone back on Nov. 1!
Sincerely,
