EP HIGH SCHOOL CLOSED THURSDAY & FRIDAY

EP High School Closed Thursday & Friday

"New Wing Flooded By Broken Pipe"

All Other Schools Open

By Bob Rodericks

East Providence High School's woes continue as school was shut down today and will remained closed tomorrow, Friday. When teachers reported to school in the new wing this morning, they were greeted with a flood of water on both floors and in most classrooms. The water leak and subsequent damage had nothing to do with the overnight rains and strong winds. A heating unit which had just been repaired earlier in the week let go again and flooded the new wing of classrooms. "The break and running of water happened sometime between 11:30 P.M. last night and 6:00 A.M. this morning," said school building supervisor, Edward Catelli. As students and staff arrived for school they were immediately directed to the school's auditorium and cafeteria. "I'll be sending everyone home but, first, let's get the students safely in the auditorium," said principal Janet Sheehan. As staff helped to direct students and visitors, calls were made to parents and the buses were brought back to school.

The flooding made it impossible to hold classes as most students have some classes in the new wing. As of early this morning, school officials were awaiting word from various officials concerning afternoon and evening activities in the main building. Interim Superintendent of Schools John DeGoes was on the scene and viewed the flooded area with maintenance staff. It is believed that the company who had repaired the heating unit on Monday would be responsible for repairing the damage. By 9:30 A.M. an insurance adjuster was on the scene as were more than six repair vehicles. Teachers were concerned that many supplies may have been damaged and lost as well as any water damage to furniture and floors. The water break started on the second floor and subsequently damaged many ceiling tiles below on the first floor.

Students were sent home and staff remained as they met with Principal Sheehan at 10 A.M. It is too early to determine what if any make-up days will have to be scheduled. "Everything seemed to move along orderly," said Assistant Principal Shani Wallace. "Nothing surprises me anymore."