SEDGWICK COUNTY — Students will return to classrooms at Derby Hills Elementary Tuesday, after a fire caused almost $50,000 in damage to the kitchen and adjacent areas. The started in a grease/water separator in the kitchen. The fire apparently started in a grease/water separator in the kitchen area.
According to the school, the quick response of emergency personnel and cleanup efforts that began shortly after Sunday morning’s fire made the the difference in beingable to bring students back so quickly.
Remaining restoration work is now focused on the lunchroom/kitchen, staff lounge and music room. These areas will remain unavailable as restoration work continues. When the fire alarm goes off the HVAC system shuts down, and the fire doors close, which helps minimize the spread of smoke beyond the affected area. Restoration crews have also used air scrubbers and other air filtration equipment to clear the smoke odor from the affected spaces and surrounding area.
While school will be in session on Tuesday, September 1, some adjustments will be made throughout the day as these spaces will remain unavailable until restoration work is completed. Latchkey services will operate normal hours. School meals will also be provided; however, Tuesday’s lunch will be limited to one sack lunch option. Derby Hills will communicate additional information regarding lunch options for the remainder of the week. The regular breakfast menu will be served tomorrow.
Tuesday, September 1 School Lunch: Derby Hills will serve Uncrustables, baby carrots, apples, juice and Cheez-Its for lunch. There will be one lunch option available; no second choice will be offered. The gymnasium will be used for lunch/lunch recess.
"We are grateful to the Derby Fire Department and other emergency personnel, our district staff and restoration crews whose quick response and ongoing work have allowed students and staff to safely return to school. Thank you to our Derby Hills families and staff for your patience, flexibility and support as we continue working through the restoration process.""