Winslow Middle School students will continue with a hybrid schedule for several months because of water damage in the building.

On September 14, Winslow Township’s interim Superintendent Mark Pease faced his first significant challenge shortly after assuming the role, following the medical leave of former Superintendent H. Major Poteat. A major pipe burst at Winslow Middle School led to severe flooding in the facility, which serves roughly 740 seventh and eighth graders. In response to the crisis, Pease promptly ordered the school to close for three days, allowing experts to evaluate the extent of the damage.

The flooding caused extensive harm, impacting around 28 classrooms, two gyms, the library, the main office, and the building’s entrance. Initial estimates indicated that repairs would take approximately a month; however, that timeline has since extended, with restoration work now expected to last until January or February of the following year. The school has since implemented a hybrid learning schedule, allowing students to attend in-person classes just two days a week, while engaging in virtual education for the remainder of the week.

Specialized contractors from All-Risk Property Damage Experts Inc. are working to restore the school. Their efforts include eliminating standing water, drying out affected areas, and conducting inspections for mold and air quality. The project, which is projected to exceed million in costs, will primarily be covered by insurance after a deductible of ,000.

Despite the ongoing repairs, approximately half the school remained unaffected by the flooding, allowing classes to continue in that portion of the building. The cafeteria remains open for meal service, ensuring students receive nourishment during their in-person learning days, while to-go meals are provided on virtual days.

Efforts to transition to a hybrid learning model drew upon methodologies developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, which had previously disrupted education nationwide. The New Jersey Department of Education has approved this plan, notwithstanding the requirement to make up for three days of missed schooling.

Parents have expressed concern about the impact of hybrid learning on education, noting the social and academic challenges students face with reduced in-person interaction. Pease acknowledged these issues, stating that the district would closely monitor academic performance and provide additional support where necessary. Winslow Middle School has maintained a high attendance rate during virtual days, averaging around 98%.

This unprecedented situation represents one of the most significant challenges in Pease’s 32-year educational career, as he works to ensure the safety and well-being of students while striving to expedite their return to a fully functioning school environment.