Golden Harvest school awaits water service before reopening Finasisu site

Golden Harvest International School and Day Care is awaiting the restoration of city water service before it can reopen its Finasisu location, while no decision has been made on when classes will resume at its Oleai campus, according to principal and director Jennifer Reyel.

Reyel said the Finasisu branch, which caters to daycare students, has already been assessed and cleared for reopening by Child Care Licensing Program inspectors after sustaining only minor damage from Super Typhoon Sinlaku.

However, reopening cannot proceed until water service is restored.

The Oleai campus, which serves daycare through fifth grade, sustained more significant damage. Reyel said solar panels that powered most of the air-conditioning units were blown off during the storm.

“The panels created holes as they landed on the tin roof, letting rainwater through the ceiling and soaking the furniture in some rooms,” she said.

An uprooted tree also fell on the playground fence, causing additional damage.

Recovery efforts are ongoing. Reyel said staff from both campuses have been working since April 18 to clear debris, clean, and disinfect facilities, including classrooms, furniture, and educational materials.

The fallen tree has already been cut and removed, while pest control services were conducted on April 20. The school’s generator is also undergoing assessment.

“There is no exact date yet for reopening. We will advise all students and families when the school and daycare are safe, healthy, and sanitary for all staff and students,” Reyel said.

She added that updates will be communicated through the school’s various platforms.

Despite the challenges, Reyel said the school remains committed to supporting the community, particularly parents serving as first responders.