Sandy Keeps Local Schools Closed Monday and Tuesday

One week after Hurricane Sandy wreaked havoc on the East Coast, schools in Malverne, West Hempstead and Lynbrook are opting to stay closed for a seventh straight day.

Although all the public schools in Malverne and West Hempstead have had their power restored, the districts announced late last week that they would not be resuming classes until Wednesday, Nov. 7, as the communities are still recovering from Sandy. Malverne staff had to report Monday, West Hempstead employees are expected to come in Tuesday.

The Lynbrook School District schools stayed closed Monday. (The district's Web site still appears to be down and Patch has not yet received an update on when classes will resume.)

Our Lady of Lourdes School in Malverne, which still does not have power, was closed Monday and has been forced to cancel classes Tuesday too.

Citing storm-related power outages and a lack of heat to its building, Our Lady of Peace School in Lynbrook also decided to cancel classes Monday but are planning to reopen Tuesday, Nov. 6.

St. Thomas the Apostle School in West Hempstead will remain closed until Wednesday. In a statement posted on the school's Web site, Principal Christina Teisch said, "This decison has been made in light of the present conditions facing all Long Islanders. Traffic signals remain out; downed trees block roadways and gas shortages continue ... emergency repsonders are at a minimum, therefore, children at school in a possible medical emergency could be challenged."

She added, "Children matter more than days to all of us here at St. Thomas School. We can always replace days ... we welcome your child any time they arrive; all assignments and homework due this week is lifted and children should not worry about any scheduled tests." 

The Hebrew Academy of Nassau County, which has two campuses in West Hempstead, opened up Monday, but cancelled all after-school programs and activities. Busing will only be available for those who live in school districts that will be open.

No updates were available regarding Grace Lutheran School. Check back for more updates.