It's possible the gym roof ripped apart by Hurricane Sandy's high winds will be replaced even before electrical power is restored to the school.

Last week, school officials jumped on the challenges the storm damage forced upon them: there was the need to clean up debris, secure the roof and arrange repairs as quickly as possible.

Within two days, crews from Millington-based Goldcon, Inc. had hauled away 13 dumpsters full of debris, and a contractor for the main job of rebuilding the roof had been found.

Today, the board approved an emergency repair appropriation not to exceed $207,000 for Strober-Wright Roofing, of Lambertville, to do the work.

Superintendent Frances Stromsland said the work could be finished this week—depending on the severity of the storm expected to reach the area Thursday.

The cost of the work will most likely be entirely covered by insurance (less the school's $1,000 deductible), according to WHRHS Business Administrator Timothy Stys. 

"We contacted them immediately," he said. The school's insurer was unable to send an adjustor out until today but told officials to proceed with the plans. He also said whatever is not covered by insurance will be covered by a FEMA grant.

The cost for work performed by Goldcon is capped at $60,000, and should also be covered by insurance.

Other work inside the gym will need to be undertaken, also, with substantial damage to the wooden floor and some damage to bleechers.

The school is developing plans on rescheduling gym classes held in gym 7/8 until all repairs can be completed. The gym is also used for serving lunches, which will alos have to be relocated.