Journeys Lutheran School in Wisconsin Delays Opening Due to Flood Damage

News Summary

Journeys Lutheran School in Hales Corners, Wisconsin, will delay its opening until at least September 8 due to significant flood damage from a recent storm. The flooding resulted in extensive damage to key areas of the school, with repair costs exceeding $1 million. The school lacks flood insurance, prompting community support, including a fundraising campaign. Staff are currently engaged in cleanup efforts amidst safety concerns, including asbestos discovery. The school plays a crucial role for families with special needs students, making the recovery efforts vital.

Hales Corners, Wisconsin: Journeys Lutheran School’s Opening Delayed by Flood Damage

Journeys Lutheran School in Hales Corners, Wisconsin, has announced a delay in its scheduled opening due to severe flood damage incurred during a historic storm. The school, which caters to 128 students with special needs, primarily those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, and learning disabilities, was set to commence its academic year on August 25 but will now not open until at least September 8.

The flooding was caused by nearly 7 inches of rain that fell during a significant storm, leading to an influx of sewage and rainwater into the school premises. The basement and ground floor suffered extensive water damage, affecting crucial areas such as the library, classrooms, and gym. Total damage estimates have exceeded $1 million, with around $100,000 allocated specifically for cleanup efforts.

Community Response and Fundraising Efforts

In light of the extensive damage, Journeys Lutheran School does not possess flood insurance, prompting the local community to rally together in support. A community member initiated a fundraising campaign, including a lemonade stand, to help raise necessary funds for the school’s recovery. Additionally, the school has established an online fundraiser aimed at covering the costs of restoration.

A local Culver’s restaurant is also participating in these recovery efforts by contributing 10% of its sales on a designated date to support the school’s rebuilding initiatives.

Ongoing Cleanup and Safety Concerns

In the wake of the flooding, school staff, including teachers, are now focused on cleanup rather than preparing for the upcoming school year. The school has also discovered asbestos in the building, which necessitates specialized mitigation efforts as part of the restoration process. To aid the recovery, the school is organizing a volunteer cleanup day on August 25, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., calling for professionals and community members to assist with various cleanup tasks, such as cleaning, painting, and replacing flooring.

Significance of the School to Families and Students

The head of the school expressed concern about the families and students affected by this crisis, highlighting the vital role that the school plays as a safe haven for its students. The commitment of the faculty, including teacher Mark Zimmerman, reflects a community-driven effort to restore the school environment that is so important to the children and their families.

Conclusion

As Journeys Lutheran School navigates through this challenging period, the collective resolve of the community and school personnel aims to mitigate the impact of the flood damage and ensure that students can return to a safe and supportive learning environment as soon as possible.

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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