Summer break is quickly coming to an end for students across Acadiana.
In Lafayette Parish, the first bell rings in less than two weeks. Meanwhile, in Scott, construction is not stopping teachers at Westside Elementary from moving into their new classrooms.
"We’re up and running, we are ready to go and we will be ready for the start of school year," said Westside Elementary Principal Lisa Thomas.
Thomas is optimistic construction will be complete before the first day of class.
"It will be welcoming. That’s my goal," said Thomas. "I want students and parents to come in and be happy and say this is an elementary school and I want my children here."
In August 2016, Westside took on nearly one foot of water. Since then, the campus has been completely renovated. The wood inside the school was replaced with cinder blocks. Classrooms have new ceilings, air conditioners and floors.
"Our floors have been made and designed to handle water," Thomas said. "So if something happens again, we could get back in much quicker."
Westside’s librarian, Mary Landry said she is excited to be back on campus and realizes how big of a transition it is to be back home.
"It’s so nice to come back together and to be the family that we know we can be to engage our students and get them to be the best they can be, the leaders of tomorrow," said Landry.
The majority of teachers have decorated their classrooms and are finishing organizing their spaces.
"I think we are so much stronger after this transition," Thomas said. "Our students did not miss a beat. Our scores grew and we are excited about that."
Westside Elementary is planning to host a back-to-school bash for students and their families on Saturday, August 4. Letters have been sent to parents with more information about the event.
