School officials scramble

Photo: Scott Hebert-Daly

The Kamloops-Thompson School District will be spending the next few days making contingency plans for Parkcrest Elementary students. 

Board chair Kathleen Karpuk tells KamloopsMatters it's too early to release any details about where kids will be moved to, following Thursday's fire that burned down the Brock school.

"Parkcrest is a fairly large school. There are over 360 students, plus staff, so finding a suitable space is going to be a bit of a challenge, but that is what we're working on for the next couple of days, and we hope to have more information soon," she says. 

Karpuk notes staff worked late into the night Thursday, arranging counselling and ensuring everyone was safe.

The community response to the tragedy has been "very heartening," she adds.

"I'm seeing organizations like the Kamloops Art Gallery and BIG Little Science Centre to offer spaces for students. I've heard from the minister of education, I've heard from our MLA Peter Milobar, the city has been there for us. ... Lots of outpouring of support."

Should students need counselling, Karpuk asks parents to contact the school board office (250-374-0679) or principal Catherine Gorman.

"We will be keeping parents informed. As soon as we have information, we'll be sending it to them. Watch the school website and the district website."

When KamloopsMatters went to Parkcrest Elementary early Friday, Kamloops Fire Rescue (KFR) was still on scene putting out hot spots. The road remains closed and only local residents are being allowed in and out.

Late Thursday, Asst. fire chief Robb Schoular told KamloopsMatters the building was a total loss.