Richmond Parents Upset Over School Closure

Parents of students at Stege Elementary School are facing growing frustration as they learn that repairs to their campus could take years, rather than the months they initially anticipated. The school has temporarily relocated to the back of Lavonya DeJean Middle School, but many parents feel the transition has been poorly organized and inadequate. One parent described the chaotic scene when they were finally allowed to enter the new location, highlighting the discontent among families regarding the abrupt changes. The district's decision to close Stege Elementary came shortly after a lawsuit was filed, citing "environmental hazards" as the reason for the closure. Parents are particularly concerned about the impact on younger children, with one parent, Gayton, expressing a desire for a more supportive transition process. She emphasized the need for parents to be involved in the relocation, suggesting that they should be allowed to guide their children through the new environment. Despite the district labeling the move to DeJean Middle School as "temporary," many parents are skeptical about what that truly means. Gayton recounted her conversation with the superintendent, where she voiced her concerns about the situation and the lack of agreement among parents regarding the temporary nature of the relocation. In light of the ongoing issues, some parents are proposing that the district consider utilizing Alvarado School, an adult education campus located about a mile and a half from Stege, as a more suitable alternative for their children during this uncertain period.