The West Contra Costa Unified School District announced last week that Stege Elementary School Campus will temporarily close for a rebuild of the campus.
The announcement came from Superintendent Kenneth C Hurst Sr via a letter announcing the closure to start the 2024-25 school year. He said WCCUSD has chosen the DeJean Middle School campus as the temporary location to accommodate two separate school communities with minimal impact on student learning and daily operations.
According to Superintendent Hunt, the District is planning to do a complete modernization of the campus located in the City of Richmond. The funding will be through non-bond state funds (Fund 21) roughly $43 million dollars.
The move comes as a lawsuit was filed by six educators, staff and parents alleging the District failed to address staffing and facility issues in the schools across the District.
Update: Stege Elementary School Temporary Relocation FAQ and Message from the Superintendent
Stege Elementary School Temporary Relocation: FAQ
Why is Stege Elementary School closed?
Stege Elementary School is temporarily closed effective Tuesday, July 23, 2024. During the summer repair work, we identified environmental concerns. In response, WCCUSD is relocating the Stege community for the start of the 2024-25 school year to conduct necessary repairs and begin the modernization of the campus.
Where will the students be relocated during the closure?
Students will be relocated to DeJean Elementary School to allow them and their families to remain near their school community. We are working diligently to ensure a smooth transition for all students.
What measures are being taken for students’ safety and well-being during this time?
We are committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment. During the modernization of the campus, Stege Elementary School students will begin the school 2024-25 year with a new principal and vice principal, an instructional coach, a school psychologist, and additional resources in response to the community’s feedback.
We are taking all necessary measures to support the Stege community during the relocation process and ensure the ongoing well-being of our students during this transition period.
How can Stege families support the school during this temporary closure?
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this period. Your continued support and understanding are vital as we navigate through this temporary closure and ensure a smooth transition for our students and staff. We encourage families to check the Stege website and ParentSquare regularly to receive relocation updates. Families can contact Principal Claudia Velez at [email protected] and Executive Director DiShawn Givens, Ed.D for questions at [email protected].
How will the community be updated on the progress of the school’s restoration and reopening?
We are dedicated to keeping the community informed as we move forward with restoring and reimagining the school. Regular updates will be provided to keep everyone informed about the progress on the District and Stege websites, and ParentSquare.
Why is the school being relocated to the DeJean Middle School campus?
The school is being relocated to the DeJean Middle School campus due to the temporary closure of the Stege Elementary School campus. This decision was made to ensure minimal impact on student learning and daily operations.
Will there be separate spaces for Stege Elementary School at the DeJean Middle School campus?
Yes, a separate campus will be created on the DeJean Middle School campus to support the continuation of the school routine with no interaction between the two schools.
How will transportation be handled for students during the relocation?
Bus transportation will be provided for Stege Elementary School students to and from the DeJean Middle School campus.
What about food services during the relocation period?
School lunch will not be disrupted during this period. Lunch will be provided for all students.
Will there be enough space for both schools to operate independently at the DeJean Middle School campus?
Sufficient space is available to ensure that both communities can operate effectively and independently without interference.
How will parking and traffic be managed during drop off and pick up times?**
Parking areas will be designated for Stege families during drop off and pick up times, and due to bus transportation, traffic is expected to be minimal.