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CACS Sustains Severe Damage in December 22nd Alamo Square Fire — Seeks Donations of Classroom Materials, Books, and Financial Support

 

Dear Friends,

The five alarm fire that engulfed the two residential buildings adjacent to CACS on 12/22/11 caused extensive smoke and water damage to our school, resulting in a total loss of six classrooms, including our art studio, cafeteria, community meeting space, and library. The severity of this situation can not be overstated as teachers have lost curriculum, their class libraries, and all other materials and supplies related to teaching and learning. Additionally, the school has lost several computers and related hardware, sports equipment, art supplies, and office supplies.

The timing of the fire is particularly difficult as the school is in the midst of long-needed ADA renovations to its original building directly on Turk, which caused the relocation of many of its classrooms and offices to the building affected by the fire. Teachers, administrators and the whole school community have been in a constant mode of flexibility and overextension in enduring the disruptions inevitable to the renovation process and ensuing move.

We have not lost sight of perspective, as after all, our neighbors have lost their homes. Our building could have burned down. School could have been in session when the fire erupted. But with very little time and even fewer financial resources due to recently triggered cuts to public education, we have to rebuild and resupply half of our school. The Creative Arts community is nothing if not strong and resilient. Throughout our history, we have time and time again overcome the obstacles associated with being a charter school to provide our diverse student body with an innovative and personalized educational experience that honors their unique gifts and talents.

In addition to financial support, Creative Arts is accepting donations of paper, pencils, markers, art supplies, sports equipment, and K-5 books for classroom and school libraries.

To make a donation of supplies or inquire about the school's specific needs, please email donations@creativeartscharter.org. Thank you in advance for any support you can lend to our very special school we love so much.

 

Paul Greenwood
CACS Director