Students of Frank H. MacDonald Elementary School will be starting their 2018-2019 school year in a different location.
The Chignecto-Central Regional Centre for Education said a recent assessment of Frank H MacDonald has turned up a structural issue that needs to be repaired before students and staff can return to the building.
Students are expected to return to school for the 2018-2019 season on Sept. 6.
As a result, the primary and Grade four students at F.H. MacDonald will relocated next door to East Pictou Middle School so that the repairs, along with further renovations at the school, can be done. The pre-primary class scheduled to open its doors this September will relocate to Thorburn Consolidated.
The CCRCE had the same assessment done on Dr. W.A. MacLeod as a precaution because it was constructed at the same time and similar profile as Frank H. MacDonald. The same structural issue was found, but repair work at this school is expected to be completed before students return to the building.
“While we recognize this is disruptive for teachers, staff, students and parents, we must err on the side of caution and conduct necessary repairs while the building is empty. Our students and staff’s safety must always be our top priority,” said Chris Boulter, system development supervisor for CCRCE. “We have a contingency plan in place to ensure we can support our students, parents and staff so they can have smooth transition for the tart of the 2018/2019 school year. We deeply appreciate our school community’s patience as we move forward with these changes.”
Parents and guardians can access-up-to-date information on the CCRCE website as details are confirmed. As open house session is being planned for all students and families relocation to allow for school and transportation questions, as well as a tour for the new location.
