West School Gets Final Funding for Sandy Recovery

West Elementary School received the final installment of federal funding owed to them for their recovery from Hurricane Sandy.

More than $2.4 million in funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency was granted this week to Long Beach School District for West School’s restoration.

The City of Long Beach had already received $3.1 million for West School. This final batch of funding, totaling $2,420,904, was the last owed to the school, according to an announcement from Sen. Kirstin Gillibrand and Sen. Charles Schumer.

“This $2.4 million federal investment means that students at West Elementary School are educated in a safe, well-equipped and learning-friendly environment once again” Schumer said. “The city of Long Beach was hit hard by Superstorm Sandy and these funds will help reimburse the cost of repairs to Long Beach’s West Elementary School.”

West School was violently battered two years ago when Hurricane Sandy struck Long Island. Floodwaters destroyed books, computers, desks, teaching materials, and other critical supplies.

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“This is great news for West Elementary School,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Superstorm Sandy devastated communities throughout New York and the City of Long Beach was hit hard. Homes, schools and businesses suffered unprecedented damage and were in dire need of repair. This is such an important investment for the community that will help rebuild West Elementary School.”

The latest funding will help in flood remediation, debris removal, and to restore the building to its original form.

“West School is a vital part of our school community. We appreciate all the hard work and effort on the part of our elected representatives, our staff, and our parents to provide the best possible education for our students. With this federal help, we are able to provide for our students in a revitalized school,” said David Weiss, Superintendent of Schools.

Photo: West Elementary School after Sandy struck. (Joseph Kellard)

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