Byron Schools to Reopen Today
In a message posted to the Byron Area Schools Facebook page on Tuesday, Byron Superintendent Tricia Murphy-Alderman thanked parents and the public for their support and patience as Byron High School and Middle School suffered significant damage as a result of Saturday's severe thunderstorm, forcing the cancellation of classes on Monday and Tuesday.
High winds toppled trees and structures throughout mid-Michigan, but Byron may have received the brunt of the storm.
Alderman said "The majority of the damage involves the HS/MS Gymnasium. We will be replacing the roof, the floor, and possibly other items as well. The roof-top heating units on the Middle School were also damaged. With the high winds and rain, there were many items "blown" off this gym and middle school area, including, metal, brick, shingles, glass, and of course trees and shrubs."
On Sunday and Monday, with the help of a restoration company, the property was cleaned up, power was restored and the structural integrity of the buildings was investigated. The district's plan to allow students to return on Wednesday, making use of temporary walls and fencing, was approved by the State of Michigan Inspector and State Fire Marshal.
Portions of the building will be rebuilt. That process will take several months to complete.
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