8/27/2020
Good afternoon Whitehall Families and Community,
As promised, I am providing a status update on the condition of our school buildings as we continue to assess the damage:
Elementary School
Some skylights were pulled from the roof due to the high winds, allowing water to enter directly into the gymnasium.
The majority of the water damage was relegated to the gymnasium, the cafeteria and the hallway outside of the gymnasium and cafeteria.
Ceiling tiles that were damaged are being replaced
The Gym floor will be addressed
Most water that entered the building stayed on the gym floor and tiled spaces
Mitigation staff is on site and drying the carpet that got damp in 1 cluster as well as some hallway carpeting
The majority of our elementary classrooms were not impacted by flood water
Jr./Sr. High School
100% of the school (Classrooms, offices and common spaces have been impacted by standing water.
The auditorium had ankle-deep water.
The boiler room had at least 8” of water.
The pool filtration room had at least 5’ of water (pumped out by Poultney VFD)
The pool has been drained (Whitehall VFD & Washington Co. Emergency Services)
Mitigation experts are on site, all standing water has been removed
ALL carpeted areas in the building have been stripped of carpeting
Drying equipment is in place throughout the building
Mitigation protocols for remediation to ensure no water is remaining inside wall cavities and protect against mold growth are being formulated
The water damage and remediation to the building has significantly impacted the progress of the building project
The New York State Department of Education has reached out to us to learn the extent of the damage, which was assessed during a walk-through of the building with our insurance carrier. Tuesday, I met with and toured the buildings with Senator Betty Little, Assemblyman Dan Stec, and representatives from Congresswoman Elise Stefanik’s office, the New York State Department of Emergency Services, and Washington County Emergency Services. I am pleased to share that each of these individuals/organizations fully understand the significance of the damage and what we as a district are up against. All have offered to be of support to our district as we move ahead and better understand our needs.
So, what does this mean now that we have come to better realize the full extent of the damage and the amount of time for the repairs and remediation that have been caused by this massive storm?
I am pleased to share that we are on track for a September 8, 2020 in-person opening at the Elementary School. The schedules that Mrs. Gould has previously shared to kick-off the year still remain in effect!
The High School, which suffered the brunt of the damage from the storm is unfortunately a different story. Based on my conversations with the Architect, General Contractor, Insurance Carrier and Remediation specialists, the High School Facility will not be available for in-person instruction on opening day. Our goal is to have our students and staff back in a safe and clean building during the second marking period. If there is any way that we can bring everyone back into a safe and clean environment before that time, we certainly will. If, during remediation and repair we find that these dates need to be extended, we will let you all know as soon as possible. In summary, all students in grades 7-12 will be engaging in Remote-Learning beginning on September 8, 2020 until we can bring them back into a safe and clean environment.
Our building administrators will be in touch with families to coordinate the details involving return to school at the elementary and how remote instruction will work at the high school. Distribution dates/times and location for Chromebooks will be shared.
While much of this is news that is disturbing and difficult to hear, I believe that clear and honest communication of the information as we know it, is exceptionally important during these times. I will continue to be in contact throughout this ordeal.
In the meantime, stay safe, and remain Whitehall Strong!
Best,
Patrick M. Dee
Patrick Dee
Superintendent of Schools