ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Harrison-Morton Middle School students will return to their 151-year-old building on Monday, Allentown School District announced.
That’s after at least one pipe burst in mid-February, causing extensive flooding that moved learning out of the building for the past seven weeks.
Students learned virtually for eight days before being dispersed to temporary school sites throughout the city to learn in person.
On Friday, students will learn virtually while their teachers prepare for in-person learning back at their school building, the district said.
On Monday, students should report to Harrison-Morton at 8 a.m. for the school day.
'Deep cleaning'
The district said in a Tuesday message to families that it made necessary safety improvements to the building while it was closed.
Those include having an environmental hygienist conduct air quality tests.
“We have taken this opportunity to invest in additional upgrades to ensure an even safer and healthier learning environment for everyone."
Allentown School District message
“We have taken this opportunity to invest in additional upgrades to ensure an even safer and healthier learning environment for everyone,” the message said.
The district installed HEPA air filter purifiers throughout the school. The building also received a “deep cleaning.”
The message said the district will share a detailed timeline for “complete renovations” as soon as possible.
A district spokesperson confirmed that refers to the building’s band room and Alternative to Suspension room — neither of which will not be usable when students return Monday.
The district needs to secure quotes and permits in order to complete those renovations.