More than six months ago, a two-alarm fire destroyed the roof and top floor of the beloved Saint Francis of Assisi School in Springfield. Here's what the community is saying about the school's future.
The Brief
Crews continue to work on putting out a fire at St. Francis of Assisi School in Springfield as the feeling of sadness takes over the community.
It’s been just over six months since a two-alarm fire destroyed the roof and top floor of the beloved Saint Francis of Assisi School in Springfield.
The fire sent Pre-K, first, and third grade students to the nearby Saint Kevin School building for class.
What they're saying:
After months of fundraising efforts totaling more than $20,000, parents are starting to raise questions about whether the building will be rebuilt after all.
School Principal, Nicole Hamilton, tells FOX 29, information about next steps from the Archdiocese started to spread in the community, which includes relocating instead of rebuilding.
She says that is not what they want as a parish or school community, nor will the school close, and discussions are actively on-going.
"This is where our school belongs," she said over the phone.
Dawn Rosser, a longtime Springfield resident, says she saw the chatter on Facebook from concerned parents and members of the parish.
"Look at how solid that structure is, it’s a beautifully built building, it’s rock solid, it just has to be renovated, and why wouldn’t that be rebuilt, you know?" she said. "Saint Francis is a huge part of the community."
What's next:
A statement from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia confirmed that discussions are ongoing and they are exploring other economical options, and the rebuild costs and how much insurance money will be available is still part of those talks.
Lindsey Smith, a mom to three students, says they have missed the camaraderie with the younger students since the October fire. However, she remains hopeful.
"I do know the community is strong, and the community is going to be together, the school is going to be rebuilt and we just have to think positively, and keep that in the atmosphere, and just let everybody know that St. Francis is ‘SFA Strong’ for a reason."
The Source: The information in this story is from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and Saint Francis of Assisi School Principal, Nicole Hamilton.