Fernway students climbing on the rock wall in the
former Fernway gym. Photo credit: Sean Morris
The gymnasium floor, which survived the flood of water, has been
refurbished and branded with the school’s name. The beloved climbing wall,
which also survived, still challenges students to reach for the sky. All rooms
feature high-tech lighting systems, and the entire building is air conditioned,
the only school in the District able to make that claim. Just as important,
Sweeney says the new Fernway is a model of safety.
“I really believe Fernway symbolizes what can happen when our
community comes together for a common purpose,” says District
Superintendent David Glasner. “This school demonstrates what is possible
for our students.”
Possible someday, for sure, but not just yet. Although the new school was
ready to swing open its doors for students this past August, the pandemic
and the need to begin classes remotely have put the grand opening on hold.
Still, Hayward and his staff are able to use the building as a base for remote
learning until the students are able to resume in-person classes.
“It’s like seeing a wrapped gift under the Christmas tree and being told
you can’t open it yet,” Hayward says, pledging to have a large celebration
when it is safe for students to return.
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