After a Maine elementary school was abruptly closed for safety reasons, the Oxford Hills School District is changing where the students will be learning going forward.
A series of safety issues were found at the Agnes Gray Elementary School in West Paris, which is 130 years old.
Superintendent Heather Manchester said when she learned about the serious issues with the school, she had no choice but to close it immediately for everyone’s safety.
Manchester said architects hired to inspect the school told the board the school is unsafe and advised them to close the building.
Among the most serious problems are a failing roof, flooring throughout the school in need of replacement, including the gym, damaged by flooding, and old, outdated plumbing.
The school also has no security system, isn’t compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act and needs a new boiler, electrical system and air compressor for its fire suppression system.
Going forward, prekindergarten and kindergarten students will remain at the Legion Memorial School starting Monday, according to the Sun Journal.
First, fifth and sixth grades will be going to Paris Elementary School, while second, third and fourth grades will be going to Guy Rowe Elementary School in Norway.
The plan is to keep the students with their teachers.
The children will be taken there on buses that currently serve Agnes Gray Elementary School.
Renovations to overhaul the Agnes Gray Elementary School building are estimated to cost $4.5 million and will be decided on at the board of director’s meeting on March 4.
