Neoga, IL-(Effingham Radio)- The Neoga School Board, as well as other representatives of the district and community, gathered in the Neoga Community Center to inform the community on their intended path forward after an EF2 tornado significantly damaged the Jr/Sr High School in Neoga.
School Superintendent Kevin Haarman started by thanking first responders and all who have helped in the recovery efforts thus far. He also reiterated that school is cancelled next week (March 17-21), and the school calendar will be extended. the last day will now be June 2nd, barring any further setbacks. The Board approved this change, and approved authorization of repairs to the many facilities.
Haarman then stated that the tornado damaged the building structurally, especially the gymnasium, ag building, and many spots on the roof throughout. Haarman said damages and risks are being assessed, and insurance representatives and damage assessors will be on-hand tomorrow to give more clarity on the next steps. He also said Representative Brad Halbrook was at the school and offered his assistance, and Senator Steve McClure also reached out.
The damage report so far is extensive. The gym wall was blown in, roof damage is widespread throughout the building, and the Ag building will need lots of repairs before students can attend classes in the building. Andrew Ewing, the District Architect, said the Jr/Sr High School has lots of punctures from the storm, and safety work will be assessed tomorrow. He also mentioned that repairs will begin tomorrow.
Superintendent Haarman also went over the intended next steps, including insurance assessments, ensuring the safety of returning students, and backup plans. He stated that the plan at this moment is to keep as many kids in town as possible, and it is likely that different spaces, such as libraries, be converted to temporary classrooms. Haarman also said that PE classes will be more outside, weather permitting, and Ag and science classes will look different, as both buildings are damaged and will need repaired before kids can return to each classroom. Haarman then indicated that, if needed, spaces at the elementary can be used for more classes, and local churches could also be used for classrooms. He also mentioned that Lake Land College has reached out to offer spaces for learning at their campus as well.
All of the School Board thanked the community for their patience and understanding, and Haarman finished by saying “we will get through this, and we will thrive once again.”
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