Spring Park Elementary transfer delayed

Children from Spring Park Elementary School who are being transferred to other schools in Charlottetown won't be back in class until Jan. 20.

The 410 students were to have returned to classes on Jan. 18, but staff and administration at Spring Park Elementary asked for two extra days to ensure that they are prepared to welcome students back to their temporary classrooms.

The Eastern School District announced the closure of Spring Park last week because of problems with mould.

"We did not want to cause any undue stress for our teachers, staff or administrators at Spring Park or the receiving schools. Packing up and moving an entire school is a daunting task," Ricky Hood, superintendent of the Eastern School District, said Wednesday in a news release.

"To help alleviate any extra stress at this time, we asked the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development to allow a two-day extension to ensure the move is as smooth as possible.

"We understand this may cause some issues for families regarding child care, but we know everyone understands the importance of ensuring a successful transition to the new locations."

Staff from Spring Park and the receiving schools, with Eastern School District personnel, have been working long hours to facilitate this transition, he said.

Gladys Kickham, acting principal at Spring Park, said home and school representatives met with administration at the school Wednesday to discuss the delay.

"All are in agreement that, in the best interest of students, the return to classes be delayed until Jan. 20," she said.

Some receiving schools needed to make some minor structural changes to accommodate the new students, Hood said. As well, furniture, books and technology must be packed and moved to new locations.