Some Perryville High School classes to return in January following 2025 tornado damage

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

PERRYVILLE, Mo., (KBSI) – Some Perryville High School classes will return to the PHS building following winter break as the district continues recovery and renovation efforts.

The band, choir and science departments will move back into their former classrooms to begin the spring term on Monday, Jan. 5. The transition will allow crews from Flex TC to remove three temporary classroom buildings from the bus parking lot near Pirate Stadium, as well as the west wing of the temporary Learning Expo across from PHS.

“We have been thankful to have the temporary structures to house high school classes this fall, but the environments have been particularly challenging for band, chorus and science instruction,” Superintendent Dr. Fara Jones said. “This transition will return these classes to more comfortable, conducive learning environments and will reduce the district’s rent obligations on temporary facilities.”

District architects determined the band, choir and science areas were safe for use following remediation, despite most of the PHS building remaining uninhabitable. Contractors removed or replaced moisture-damaged materials, including ceiling tiles, carpet and sheetrock. The areas were cleaned and passed air quality testing, as well as city and fire inspections, officials said. Internal barriers have been constructed to restrict access to areas that remain off limits.

Crews have begun moving classroom furniture and equipment, with the full transition expected to be completed over winter break.