News Summary
The opening of Journeys Lutheran School in Hales Corners, Wisconsin, has been delayed by two weeks due to extensive flood damage from recent severe weather. The school, which serves 128 students, is now aiming to reopen on September 8 after experiencing significant water damage, particularly affecting classrooms, the library, and gym. The costs for repairs exceed $1 million, and without flood insurance, the community has initiated fundraising efforts to support recovery and ensure a safe environment for students.
Hales Corners, Wisconsin – Severe Flood Damage Delays School Opening
The opening of Journeys Lutheran School in Hales Corners, Wisconsin, has been postponed by at least two weeks due to extensive flood damage caused by recent severe weather. Originally scheduled to start on August 25, the school now aims to reopen by September 8, pending repair progress.
Extent of Flood Damage and Event Details
The flooding occurred after nearly 7 inches of rain fell during a historic storm, overwhelming the school’s infrastructure. The floodwaters, combined with sewage backflow, led to significant water damage, especially in the basement and ground floor areas. These affected spaces include classrooms, the library, and the gymnasium. The damage has disrupted the environment for approximately 128 students, many of whom have special needs, including autism, ADHD, anxiety, and learning disabilities.
Financial Impact and Insurance Challenges
The damages are estimated to exceed $1 million, with about $100,000 allocated specifically for cleanup efforts. Notably, the school does not have flood insurance coverage, complicating the process of recovery and repair. This financial gap has prompted a grassroots fundraising effort within the community to support the school’s rebuilding process.
Community Response and Fundraising Initiatives
Community members have stepped forward to assist with recovery efforts. Kaitlyn Chapman, a local resident, organized a lemonade stand to raise funds for the school’s cleanup and repairs. Additionally, a fundraising event at Culver’s will contribute 10% of sales on a specific date to the cause. This community response aims to gather necessary funds to cover damages and facilitate the repair process.
Recovery Efforts and Safety Concerns
The school administration, led by Jenny Stollenwerk, emphasizes the importance of restoring a safe environment for students and staff. Since the flood, teachers, including staff member Mark Zimmerman, have dedicated their time to cleanup activities instead of preparing for the upcoming school year. Recovery efforts have been complicated by the detection of asbestos in the building, requiring specialized mitigation services to ensure safety and compliance with health standards.
Volunteer and Professional Involvement
A volunteer cleanup day is scheduled for August 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., inviting community members and professionals to assist with cleaning, painting, and replacing damaged flooring. The school is also seeking additional volunteers and skilled professionals for various repair tasks to expedite the rebuilding process.
Additional Support Measures
To aid the restoration, the school has launched an online fundraiser aimed at collecting donations to cover damages and renovation costs. The immediate need for supplies, labor, and expertise is critical to reopen the school as planned and to ensure the safety and comfort of its students.
In summary, Journeys Lutheran School faces a substantial setback due to historic flooding, affecting both the physical structure and the community it serves. Ongoing efforts, including volunteer work and fundraising campaigns, are vital to restoring the school and resuming its mission of supporting students with special needs in a secure environment.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WISN: Flood Damage Delays Start of School in Hales Corners
- Wikipedia: Hales Corners, Wisconsin
- Spectrum News: Journeys Lutheran School Flood Damage
- Google Search: Journeys Lutheran School flooding
- TMJ4: Special Needs School Faces $1 Million in Flood Damage
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- JSONline: Riverside High School & Journeys Lutheran School Affected by Flooding
- Google News: Flood Damage Schools
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
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