Staff have been working since last week to remove snow and ice from roofs, school grounds and parking lots.
The ice build-up is proving challenging in this rain-thaw-freeze cycle. Many of our schools have had water leaks this week. Some have been relatively isolated and not caused too much disruption.
In others, classes have been moved and in some cases, schools have been closed. For the five schools closed today, here is a brief overview of where things stand:
Humber Park Elementary
- School will open Wednesday, February 25
- Leaks have been repaired
- Snow and ice has been cleared from roof drains and ventilation
- An electrician has checked and repaired light fixtures in the washrooms
Astral Drive Junior High
- School will remain closed on Wednesday, February 25 (Decisions for Thursday will be made Wednesday afternoon/evening)
- Some repairs have been completed but work continues to fix all the leaks
- Snow and ice is being removed from the roof
- All damaged interior finishes such tiles, ceiling tiles and gyproc will be replaced
- Upon completion of work there will be air quality sampling by a consultant to ensure remediation is complete
- Staff will be assigned to alternate location
JL Ilsley High School
- School will remain closed on Wednesday, February 25 (Decisions for Thursday will be made Wednesday afternoon/evening)
- Steps have been taken to repair roof leaks, however, some leaks are continuing
- Plans have been made to remove the snow and ice
- All damaged interior finishes such tiles, ceiling tiles and gyproc will be replaced, we are awaiting delivery of materials
- Upon completion of work there will be air quality sampling by a consultant to ensure remediation is complete
- Staff will assigned to alternate locations this week
St. Catherine's Elementary School
- School will remain closed until Monday, March 2
- Leaks have been repaired
- Snow and ice is being removed from the roof
- All damaged interior finishes such tiles, ceiling tiles and gyproc are being replaced
- Upon completion of work there will be air quality sampling by a consultant to ensure remediation is complete
- Staff will be assigned to alternate locations this week
Beechville-Lakeside-Timberlea Senior Elementary
- School will remain closed until Monday, March 2
- Leaks have been repaired
- Snow and ice is being removed from the roof
- All damaged interior finishes such tiles, ceiling tiles and gyproc are being replaced
- Upon completion of work there will be air quality sampling by a consultant to ensure remediation is complete
- Staff will be assigned to alternate locations this week
We are facing very challenging weather conditions. We have been working non-stop to respond, plan, and ensure all schools are safe. The HRSB would not open a school if it did not feel it was safe for students and staff. We appreciate the public’s patience as we work through this.