A Stormy Day That Showed Our Strength
On Thursday of week four, we experienced an extraordinary weather event that tested our school’s resilience, preparation, and care for one another. I want to take a moment to share the story of what happened, how our staff and students responded, and the steps we’ve taken to ensure safety and continuity in the aftermath.
Around 2:55 PM, we noticed rapidly escalating weather conditions, with strong winds, heavy rain, and hail rapidly intensifying. In the minutes before the end of day bell, teachers were advised to keep students indoors and away from windows, to ensure their safety as conditions worsened. Year 6 students were relocated to the Multi-Purpose Centre (MPC), while others remained sheltered in classrooms.
By 3:00 PM, the storm hit with full force. The sound of hailstones and roaring winds was overwhelming with limited visibility making the situation even more challenging. Teachers reassured students and managed their distress, while staff assessed leaks and structural impacts in various buildings, including the Food Labs. As the storm subsided not more than 5 minutes later, our staff cautiously began assessing the damage. A large tree had fallen on one of our Woodwork classrooms, and several other trees had toppled onto vehicles and infrastructure, causing extensive damage to water tanks, fences, and power sources. Our immediate concern was the safety of students and staff. Thankfully, there were no major injuries reported.
Emergency protocols were enacted immediately in the aftermath of the storm. Staff isolated water and power hazards, contained leaks, and communicated with authorities to ensure all areas were secure. Emergency services were notified, and we called in arborists, electricians, plumbers, and builders to address critical repairs.
Throughout this, the safety of our students and families remained our top priority. Staff supervised student exits, directed traffic, and provided first aid and comfort to those affected. With roads blocked by fallen powerlines, trees and debris, alternative routes were coordinated by school staff to ensure everyone could leave the premises safely as it became apparent that emergency services were in demand due to the storms impact throughout the community.
The hours following the storm were dedicated to extensive damage assessment and cleanup. Arborists worked through the evening to clear hazardous trees, while plumbers, electricians, and builders addressed compromised infrastructure. Temporary fencing was installed to secure high-risk areas. Staff worked late into the night alongside senior executives and trades to prepare the site for safe operations the next day. By 10:00 PM, the most critical tasks had been completed, and the school had been made safe to ensure students could return for a relatively normal Friday of learning.
The following morning, we held a staff meeting at 8:15 AM and a student assembly at 8:55 AM to review the events, address concerns, and outline safety measures moving forward. Our priority was and is always to ensure a safe and supportive environment for everyone.
I want to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to our staff, who acted with exceptional professionalism and care throughout the ordeal. Their quick thinking and teamwork ensured the safety of our students and the swift resolution of issues. To our parents and caregivers, thank you for your patience and understanding during the disruptions caused by the storm. Your support is appreciated as we navigate challenges like these. Finally, I want to acknowledge the resilience of our students. Their cooperation during such a stressful event was a testament to the strength of the Mount View High community.
If you have any concerns or questions about the storm’s impact or ongoing repairs, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
