ROANOKE TIMES 
                      Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times

DATE: Thursday, September 12, 1996           TAG: 9609130013
SECTION: VIRGINIA                 PAGE: C-4  EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: JOEL TURNER

DELAY SAVED COMPUTERS

The delay in the installation of computer technology in the library at the renovated Stonewall Jackson Middle School in Roanoke might have been a blessing in disguise.

Water leaked into the school and damaged tile in the library and carpet in an assistant principal's office during the rain caused by Hurricane Fran last week.

Richard Kelley, assistant superintendent for operations, said Tuesday school officials didn't know exactly how the leak occurred.

The leak caused little damage in the library because the technology and carpet had not been installed.

Workers installed a temporary plastic covering in the library to protect against water damage until the location of the leak can be found and the problem repaired, he said.

In the meantime, carpet is being installed in the library and furniture and books will be moved in, and students can begin using the library this week, he said.

Kelley said it will take awhile to install the technology and the library may not be in full operation until the end of the month.

The school's kitchen is expected to be in service by today, he said. Lunches have been brought from other schools this week.

By today, students should be able to use the band room, he said. The locker rooms will be finished by Monday and students can begin using the gymnasium, he said.

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