The Port Arthur Independent School District has modified its plan for the return of faculty, staff and students to PAISD.

The original plan to resume classes for students Thursday, Sept. 25, remains in effect, if power has been restored.

The following personnel will return to work at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, one day later than originally announced in view of power considerations: All administrative personnel and child nutrition, transportation, maintenance, custodial workers, and secretaries.

All other personnel are asked to report to work at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, one day later than originally reported, including teachers, counselors, librarians, teacher assistants, and social workers.

The PAISD administrative executive team will meet at 1:30 p.m Tuesday, Sept. 23, at the central administration building, and the full leadership team of central administrators and principals will meet at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, at Stilwell Technical Center to assess the situation and prepare for the students to return.

The School Board will hold a special called emergency Board Meeting at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, at Stilwell Technical Center to address assessment and emergency issues in follow up to “Hurricane Ike.”

The District experienced damage to several facilities, but remains confident that the damages will not prevent the start of school Thursday, Sept. 25. Again, the plans above are contingent upon the date of return of power. We certainly are supportive of all employees, students and their families in understanding that safety and family considerations must be the “first priority” in terms of timing for return to the city, work and school.

Please contact Dr. Mark Porterie if questions about the media alert or other information regarding the affects of Hurricane Ike.