Structural upgrades are underway at Brooke Central Public School.
Lambton Kent District School Board Director of Education John Howitt tells Sarnia News Today the ceiling has been demolished and crews are working on reinforcing the building now.
"The construction is moving along," said Howitt. "The steel is on site and installation has begun. Thankfully we haven't had any significant weather delays and we are anticipating to be back in the school for September."
Concerns were raised about the Alvinston school's roof in November, which led to the relocation of some students to other schools.
Sections of the school built in 1960 and 1967 were vacated and an area built in 2007 -- that housed the daycare and gymnasium -- was closed for repairs.
Howitt said it took some time to organize repairs and the timeline was extended for a few reasons.
"Because of the scope of work, the new code requiring fire sprinkler systems -- which was not anticipated -- was required by the municipality. So, we had to add that to the scope of work. Which is good news to have a sprinkler system within the school, and the engineering, and architecture work took time, as well as sourcing the steel."
Howitt said the school community has been very understanding.
"We've been very fortunate with the support from the community, and their understanding, and their patience. Many of them, during public meetings, expressed that they were in the construction industry and understood the length of time and scope of work, and that's pretty much what's playing out."
Howitt said while they're aiming for all students to return in September, if it happens before then, they will be pleased.
