Manual damaged in thunderstorm

Farren Vaughan • July 14, 2014

Lightning struck Manual on Sunday, July 13, causing damage to the iconic tower structure. Chunks of debris punched holes in the roof, letting in water from the storm. Among the classrooms affected were those used by Ms. Robin Cash (Family Consumer Science), Ms. Laura Spiegelhalter (Family Consumer Science), Ms. Rebecca Donahoe (English) and Ms. Allison Hunt (Social Studies).

“I went to Ms. Finley’s room and you can see (roof) damage right there: it’s through the ceiling, through the insulation. Debris came crashing down into Cash’s room,” said Mr. Jerry Mayes (Principal). “We’re working on getting this fixed before school starts.”

Manual’s custodians and administrators are working with engineers and insurance contractors to assess the damage.

“This just a glitch on the screen,” said Mr. Mayes. “Everything’s great, I don’t see this as a problem. I always try to think of something positive. Now we’re the only school in the district with a sun roof!”

manual damage — Contractors assess the damage from a crane. Photo courtesy of Mr. James Miller

10429409_10152505724253864_7615412429787650454_n — Ms. Cash’s room is damaged the most, with holes in the roof, letting in debris and water damage. Photo courtesy of Mr. James Miller

10525835_10152505723938864_9163220336905427761_n — Manual’s iconic tower was struck, causing chunks of sandstone from the original 1930s construction to crash onto the roof. Photo courtesy of Mr. James Miller

10553317_10152505724108864_7608314498651569029_n — Heavy debris rests on roof holes above third floor center hall. Custodians and JCPS safety officials said the roof could give way, allowing the remaining debris to fall into the building and possibly through the floor, damaging second-floor classrooms. Photo courtesy of Mr. James Miller

Donate to Manual RedEye

$1580

$2500

Contributed

Our Goal

Donations are collected through The Publishers, duPont Manual High School’s booster club for J&C. Your donation will support the student journalists of duPont Manual High School. Your contribution will provide equipment and cover annual website hosting costs.