The construction that began on the roof of Athens Drive High School at the end of March was also the start of constant noise and distractions for students in classrooms in the 2700’s hall. Students suffered from loss of focus from the noise.

On April 21 because of the roof construction, a ceiling tile and insulation fell through Shane Barry, a science teachers’, classroom.  It fell on his desk and was cleaned that same day, yet the classrooms in this area of Athens were already distracted by the noise. This affected students learning plus there is the danger of possibly being hit by a ceiling tile.

Just two days later, more debris fell from the ceiling again in Barry’s classroom.  Another tile and this time a PVC pipe fell through while Jeremy Parrish, an administrator, was observing the class.  This debris could have easily hit and harmed a student in the classroom.  Thankfully this was not the case and students were removed from this classroom and moved to another room.  It is surprising that this classroom would be open to students again after the first incident on April 21.

After the first incident, Barry spoke to Administrator Steven Katz, who was concerned about the cleanup. However, once the room was cleared, classes continued. After the second occurrence, Parrish and Barry moved the students from the class. Barry spoke to another administrator, Theron Stallworth, who told Barry to email him about the problem. After receiving no response, Barry spoke to Principal Dr. James Hedrick who told Barry to find a new room.

Barry said, “I’ve had to work as a ‘floating teacher’ now. I’ve just been teaching my three classes in different science teachers’ rooms.”

Although Barry did not complain about having to be a temporary floating teacher, it is not something that he should of had to do.  He is used to having his own classroom and having to adjust to a last minute change can be stressful for a teacher who is used to having so much room.  Also, Barry is a science teacher and his classroom has equipment that might have been necessary for his class that day.

The construction on the roof has been a nuisance for not only Athens students but also their teachers.  It has caused noise distractions and even damage to a classroom.  Although these problems are now resolved, construction on the roof is continuing and hopefully no additional problems will arise.