Department of Education contractors were busy completing summer maintenance projects at the island’s public schools last week in anticipation of the August 27 beginning of classes.
Workers at Julius E. Sprauve School focused on general maintenance including replacement of light bulbs, window operators and electrical outlet fixtures. One classroom was expanded to accommodate handicap accessibility and was completed with fixtures.
The leaky roof over the library was repaired; water coolers were replaced; chain link fencing was fabricated and installed; and concrete was re-paved where necessary.
At Guy Benjamin School in Coral Bay general maintenance also included the replacement of light bulbs, window operators and electrical outlet fixtures.
Contractors installed security bars over doors and windows, conducted miscellaneous kitchen repairs, installed an air conditioner in the computer laboratory and replaced an exterior door.
In general, the scheduled summer maintenance work was completed on time, explained DOE spokesperson Juel Anderson.
“Overall the work identified was accomplished and as items arise that require maintenance they will be taken care of,” said Anderson.
“Outstanding work includes completion of the janitorial, extermination and fire extinguisher replacement scopes. Contractors have been selected and work has begun in these areas.”
“The landscaping work will commence following the completion of these items,” continued Anderson.
The district has purchased outdoor storage units for both St. John public schools to assist them with their needs for storage, Anderson added.
The units will be assembled prior to the start of school.
Ongoing problems with the septic system at GBS were not included in the scopes for summer maintenance work, according to Anderson.
“HTA has been contracted to handle the engineering work on this project and the development of the scope of work,” Anderson said about the GBS septic system. “This project was not identified as a summer maintenance project therefore it has no current deadline for completion. HTA is currently working on identifying the location and type of treatment facility to be installed.”
“Again, this is a project that will not impact or interrupt the normal process of the school’s daily activities,” Anderson said.