News Summary
Journeys Lutheran School in Hales Corners, Wisconsin will delay its opening by two weeks due to significant flood damage from a historic storm. The school, serving 128 students with special needs, faces damages exceeding $1 million, with additional concerns about asbestos found in the building. The community has rallied to support recovery efforts through fundraising initiatives and volunteer opportunities, highlighting the importance of the school as a safe haven for its students and families. A cleanup day and online fundraiser are being organized to assist restoration efforts.
Hales Corners, Wisconsin – Journeys Lutheran School has announced that its opening will be postponed by at least two weeks due to extensive flood damage caused by a historic storm that resulted in nearly 7 inches of rain. The school, which serves 128 students, many of whom have special needs including autism, ADHD, anxiety, and learning disabilities, was originally scheduled to begin the school year on August 25. The new target date for reopening is September 8, contingent on recovery progress.
Severe flooding inundated the school, leading to an influx of both sewage and rainwater into various areas of the building. The basement and ground floor were particularly hard-hit, with substantial damage reported to the library, classrooms, and gym. Estimates suggest that the total damages may exceed $1 million, which includes approximately $100,000 specifically earmarked for cleanup efforts.
Compounding the difficulties, Journeys Lutheran School does not have flood insurance coverage, prompting a community fundraising initiative to help cover costs. In response to the devastation, local community member Kaitlyn Chapman organized a lemonade stand to raise funds for the school’s recovery.
School head Jenny Stollenwerk expressed concern for the affected families and students, emphasizing how critical the school environment is as a safe haven for its student population. Instead of preparing for the upcoming school year, teachers, including Mark Zimmerman, are actively involved in the cleanup efforts, working to restore the school.
In addition to water damage, asbestos was discovered in the building, necessitating specialized mitigation procedures to ensure safety during recovery. Recognizing the immediate need for assistance, Journeys Lutheran School is encouraging volunteers to participate in a cleanup day scheduled for August 25, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.
To further support restoration efforts, the school has launched an online fundraiser aimed at collecting donations to cover damage costs. Additionally, a local restaurant, Culver’s, will contribute 10% of its sales on a designated date to assist in the recovery efforts.
Jenny Stollenwerk noted the pressing need for both professional help and volunteers for a variety of tasks including cleaning, painting, and replacing flooring. The community’s involvement and support during this challenging time underscores the vital role the school plays in the lives of its students and families.
As Journeys Lutheran School looks to rebound from this catastrophe, the spirit of community engagement and support remains strong, highlighting the resilience and dedication of families and staff alike.
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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
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