Schools in flood damaged areas relatively unscathed

June 29--School officials in Greenbrier, Summers and Fayette counties have reported little to no damage as a result of the devastating floods that have crippled portions of West Virginia.

"We're really in good shape," said incoming Greenbrier County Superintendent Jeff Bryant, who will begin as superintendent on July 1. "We are really fortunate."

Rainelle Elementary had some minor water damage in the cafeteria due to drainage issues, according to Greenbrier County Schools Facilities Director Steve Kirk.

Also, the entrance road to Greenbrier West High School will need some repaving due to high waters and the entire basement level of Rupert Elementary took on water, Kirk said. The school building itself was unaffected.

Kirk said that they are assessing all damage and clean up is underway. The county will report the damage to BRIM, the Board of Risk Insurance and Management, who will then do its own assessment.

"We can replace structures. My heart breaks for the loss of life from these floods," Kirk said. "From a Greenbrier County Schools perspective, we are blessed."

Summers County Superintendent Vicki Hinerman stated that all school facilities in her county were unaffected by the high waters.

Hinerman stated that the football field at Summers County High School took on water which left behind rocks, mud and debris that need removed.

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"There were no severe damages, just some minor drainage issues here and there," said Fayette County Schools Associate Superintendent Gary Hough.

Hough stated that any efforts on Fayette Schools part was spent helping folks in Greenbrier County as Fayette School buses helped bus Rainelle residents to safety when waters were rising on June 24.

Raleigh County Schools Superintendent David Price reported no damage to school facilities.

Chief Communications Officer at New River Community and Technical College Libby Belcher said all New River facilities were unaffected.

Officials at Nicholas Schools could not be reached as of press time.

-- Email: bfrye@

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