Springhill mother says leaky elementary schools need attention
CBC News | Posted: October 8, 2015 9:40 AM | Last Updated: October 8, 2015
Melissa Scheltgen says Junction Road Elementary School's roof leaks every time it rains
A parent in Springhill is worried about the state of the community's two elementary schools.
Melissa Scheltgen has two sons in Grade 1 and Grade 3 attending Junction Road Elementary.
She said the school's common area — which acts as a gym, auditorium and lunch room — leaks like a sieve.
"There are buckets all over when it rains," said Scheltgen.
'I could literally have thrown up'
She said the building is stifling hot because most of the windows don't open.
"I walked in the school and within ten minutes I was so hot I could literally have thrown up. I don't know how kids are supposed to learn in that environment."
Scheltgen said the other elementary school in Springhill, West End Memorial School, also leaks and is in need of some attention.
"Walking up to the steps to the West End school [there are] big chunks missing and pieces uneven," she said.
"It's only a matter of time before a child trips and gets seriously injured over there."
Repairs delayed
Parents expected roof repairs before this school year started.
Debbie Buott-Matheson, a spokesperson for the Chignecto-Central School Board said the tendering process for that work is underway.
The long-term fix is the consolidation of the two older buildings into a brand new school.
It's third on the board priority list but the decision for new construction is made by the province.
There is no way to tell if or when it will be on the government's radar.
Scheltgen isn't holding her breath.
"My children will be out of elementary by the time it happens."