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North Branch Middle School sustained enough damage August 19 in a severe storm episode that the sixth grade wing of the school is not useable, said school officials. A plan has been developed to accommodate all middle school students at the school with areas needing repairs to be barricaded to all student use.

Patrick Tepoorten, School Community Relations, said "There will be challenges and space will be at a premium but (we) are confident plans will not compromise the learning environment or educational experience at North Branch Middle School."

The school roof in the sixth grade wing was heavily damaged along with the "underlying structure" added Tepoorten. It will take many months to finish repairs.

The September 2 Open House for the start of this school year will proceed as scheduled. The Aug. 27 "Sneak Peek" session is called off. School starts Sept. 8.

North Branch Sergeant Rick Sapp reported that citywide there were no injuries directly related to the severe weather. Trees and powerlines were downed in an area to the west of the school, along 4th Ave. and north on Elm Street. The police were alerted by witnesses making cell phone calls, about the damage done to the school. Those calls came in about 4 p.m.

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