Oakman - Most Oakman Elementary students seemed glad to be back Tuesday morning, after four weeks away.  When asked what she missed the most about school, Mandy Rhine said, "seeing my teacher."  Jessie Kilgore admitted being a little worried about all the work ahead of them, following the December 10th tornado that destroyed two of the school's three wings.  He said, "we had some tests that week, so we're going to have to make those up this week."

First, though, all 450 students in grades K-6, gathered in the gym, which was untouched by the storm.  They met for an assembly in which the principal, Dr. Dennis Willingham, explained the changes to class arrangements.  Kindergartners and first-graders were sent to new rooms near the offices.  Third, fourth and fifth-graders went to portable classrooms.  Sixth-graders were moved into classrooms in the nearby high school.

Dr. Willingham said, "This is our plan until we get a new school built.  It is the best-case scenario.  We've given our kids the best we can offer them under the circumstances."  The new arrangements will likely be in effect for some time, since Walker County does not have the money to build a new elementary school.  Administrators plan to ask the legislature and the state for help, in May.

 Email To Friend