MINERAL, Va. (WRIC/Press Release)- On Sunday, August 9, Louisa County Public Schools held a dedication for the new Louisa County High School, marking a full recovery from the August 2011 earthquake.
The event damaged all six schools in the county and destroyed two of them, eliminating 40% of student capacity in an instant. Thomas Jefferson Elementary School opened in its new building in August 2014.
In fewer than four years, Louisa County has rebuilt two schools, repaired and reinforced all other structures, and done it all while seeing increases in student achievement, particularly at LCHS, according to a spokesman for the school system. Despite having a modular campus for the past three and a half school years, test scores and workforce-ready credentials received are on the rise.
From the day of the earthquake, Dr. Deborah Pettit, LCPS Superintendent, expressed gratitude that all students and staff members survived the violent shaking. Faculty and staff say the thankfulness in their hearts has only grown over time, as their community rallied to support LCPS.
The federal disaster declaration paved the way for federal and state relief to assist in providing temporary accommodations and in rebuilding efforts. Because of that community and governmental support, along with the collaboration between the local school board and board of supervisors, and the dedication of staff and students, the recovery effort is complete.
Students said they are most looking forward to using the state-of-the-art gyms, library and performing arts center.
At the ceremony, staff kicked off the school year with convocation. All LCPS employees were in attendance. For many, it was the first chance to go inside the building. At the dedication and ribbon-cutting, hundreds came together to celebrate the opening of the new school, followed by tours.
The morning bell will ring for the first time on Wednesday, August 12.
