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Oakman High School will re-open Thursday morning.
But the principal of Oakman Elementary says the earliest classes inside the elementary school will resume is next week.
Wednesday night, Oakman Elementary School students peered inside at what's left of their school.
"First thought was, 'man, glad we weren't in school because a lot of people would have been severely hurt,'" said Connor Posey, a fourth grader.
The ceiling hung into the hallway and classrooms, which were covered in sludge. It's the newest part of the building completed in 1999.
"As you can see, the wall has moved about eight feet," said Dennis Willingham, principal of Oakman Elementary.
Students could have been trapped in the classroom.
But Willingham says the school's emergency procedures would've kept the students safe.
"We try to put the kids as close to the middle of the infrastructure as possible," said Willingham.
That place would've been inside the older part of the building that only got a little water damage.
"I feel safe in saying our kids are in a good position to be safe," said Rhonda Posey, Connor's mom.
An architect will take a look at the building to determine whether the older part of the building is structurally sound.
Parents say it may be time to build a new school.
"I really do think it's time because if we go and build around what's here. It's a 60 year old building," said Posey.
"I think they need a new one, give them more room," said another parent.
Even the students want a new building.
"Then they can make it stronger, and it won't blow away," said Tristan Waddell, a second grader.
But Willingham says even repairs will require assistance. He's hoping FEMA (web | news) or the state will give the school enough money to re-open.
School administrators will decide Friday whether classes can resume in the older part of the school. If that part of the school is structurally sound, classes could start next week.
Otherwise, Willingham says mobile trailers will be needed and students will be out until after Christmas.
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