A primary school in northern Hawke’s Bay got flooded twice and now is having classes in a church chapel – the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The school got damaged by a cyclone, but they hope to go back to their classrooms by 2025. Right now, the school staff is doing everything they can to make the temporary setup feel normal for the students. It’s been tough for the 80 kids and 12 staff members. Last February, they had to go to another town for classes, and then they moved to the church when another flood hit in November.
The principal, Raelene McFarlane, wants the students to feel like they’re part of a strong community, not like refugees. They’re making do with smaller classrooms in the church, sharing space with the churchgoers on weekends. Even though it’s not perfect, it’s better than before. The school’s original classrooms got wrecked, but they’re building new ones for next year. They’re also taking some nice things from the church back to the school.
The students and teachers are eager to get back to their normal routine. McFarlane is asking for extra help from the Ministry of Education, like more staff and a place for students to talk about their feelings. The Ministry is considering their request and might provide extra funding. They’re also getting money to help students catch up on missed learning. The old school buildings will be demolished soon to make way for the new ones.
[original text by RNZ news]