Report by Paula Antolini
May 16, 2018 1:14PM EDT
Storm Damage Update from BPS Superintendent Dr. Carver, Schools Could Be Closed Again Tomorrow
Tweet and Email Message from Dr.Carver / Bethel Public Schools:
Dear Parents/Guardians, and Staff,
I want to give you an update on the status of the storm damage. Unfortunately, like other local communities, Bethel incurred severe storm damage. The impact primarily was downed trees, live electrical wires and impassable roads. The school campus itself does have power and is in good shape but I have been informed by the 1st Selectman, Town Highway Dept., and the Town’s Office of Emergency Management, that there are over 35 trees down most of which have live wires, requiring the services of an expert, Level 2 Electrician. A level 2 electrician is more experienced and can repair the overhead service lines safely. It’s unclear how long it will take to secure all of the live wires, but until safe, school will be closed.
At this point they can’t clear any of the downed trees or debris because of the live wires. Eversource has been contacted but they are not yet on scene in Bethel.
Our main concern at this point is our buses will not be able to safely run due to the road blockages and other live wires down throughout the community. Another negative aspect to wires being down is the level of learning based on WiFi use and technology that cannot be executed at this time. While we Read more on the electrical faults that have occurred and attempt to remedy them, it is safer and smarter to leave the children at home during this stressful and disruptive time. Therefore, there is a possibility we may not have school tomorrow. We will send out another email to you by 7 PM to confirm the status of the school tomorrow.
For the 7th grade parents with children at Nature’s Classroom, Mr. DaPonte is there. All children are safe and having a great time because they were completely unaffected by the storm.
If you want regular updates, please monitor Twitter, Mr. DaPonte, teachers, parent chaperones, and myself will be posting updates.
If you have any questions, please email Mr. DaPonte or myself.
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