ORLANDO, Florida. – After Riverdale Elementary School flooded due to heavy rains from Hurricane Ian in Orlando, crews got to work getting it back in order before the district’s scheduled opening date.
Orange County Public Schools announced plans to reopen schools in the district on Monday, October 3. However, water still surrounded Riverdale on Friday night.
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Cleaning crews spent hours pushing water outside and mopping floors on Friday.
One worker told News 6 he wasn’t as concerned about wet floors as he was about dampness in the walls, which could cause health problems if left unchecked. The worker said it could be a few days before the cleanup is complete.
Selasi Ekpeh, an Orlando resident, said he felt the children had missed school too much over the past year.
“COVID just arrived last year. They just left school last year, now they are out of school again,” he said. “They are not always in class. a lower level will impact them.
Scott Howat, a representative for OCPS, said at a Friday conference that the district discussed options for Riverdale students and faculty.
“Our priority is to ensure that our students and staff return to a safe learning environment as soon as possible,” Howat said. “If necessary, the district will consider alternative instruction options for students, such as alternate teaching locations, alternate sites, or, if possible, virtual learning.”
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