Another delay
Two new elementary schools will not open in November as planned
By Donna Gregory NEWS EDITOR

The parents of students set to attend Elizabeth Scott and Winterpock elementary schools were notified last week that their children will continue to attend classes in trailers indefinitely. The opening of the two new schools, originally scheduled for November, is being delayed until later in the school year. Right now, it's not known when the schools will be ready for occupancy.

"We're not going to set a date that we don't know," commented Debra Marlow, the school system's director of community relations. Parents will be notified of the new opening date before their children leave school on winter break, said Marlow.

Until then, students will attend school in trailers set up at Marguerite Christian and Spring Run elementary schools and the Enon Annex.

According to the school system, construction on both schools has been delayed due to issues with obtaining utility easements from nearby property owners. Securing a deed from the state is further delaying the opening of Elizabeth Scott.

"The contractor responsible for building each school needed electrical power to complete certain work, including energizing, testing and balancing the heating and air conditioning systems, ensuring that the fire alarm system functions properly, installing built-in cabinets and ceiling tiles throughout the schools, which must be done in a climate-controlled environment, and receiving all final inspections. Once that work is completed, the buildings must be furnished before students and staff can occupy them," reads the release.

Marshall Trammell Jr., Bermuda District school board representative, will meet with parents affected by the Elizabeth Scott delay on Oct. 16 at 6:30 p.m. in the Thomas Dale High School auditorium. No meeting has been planned for Winterpock.