Thaindian News

Moscow, Mar 6 (ANI): After a devastating earthquake in Canterbury, 31 affected schools have reportedly indicated that they will open for students over the next three days.

Fifty-five other schools were confirmed as structurally sound and could open for staff immediately, stuff.co.nz reports.

Education Minister Anne Tolley said: “I want to thank principals, teachers and parents for all the hard work they are putting into getting their schools open as soon as possible. I’m confident that most schools will be up and running by the end of the week, as we do all we can to get students back into learning.”

Tolley further asked guardians to contact school authorities, visit the school websites or go to the Ministry of Education website for updates on the re-opening of schools.

Interim plans were being made for 34 other schools with issues, including four with structural damage, to get students back on site soon.

However, at least six other schools had been damaged severely and would not be able to open on their own site in the near future.

Arrangements were reportedly being made for those students.

“I’m pleased to announce that interim plans are in place for a further 2200 students at three of these schools. The flexibility being shown by all of the schools involved is extremely encouraging, as we try to give certainty for students and parents as soon as we possibly can,” Tolley added. (ANI)