Some students returning to Great Falls school after roof blows off

GREAT FALLS, Mont. – Lincoln Elementary in Great Falls faced a significant setback when 70 mile-per-hour wind gusts hit the area on Sunday, damaging a portion of the school's roof. The incident has affected the school schedule, but plans are underway for students to return to class soon.

Local resident Karen Shadrick witnessed the windstorm's impact firsthand.

"I looked up, and this big silver thing is in the air. And it was as high as that evergreen. And my first thought was it was an airplane, because, you know, it's silver. And I don't know why I thought airplane, except there's so many of them that seem to go down anymore. And so, then the dust, the dust was just humongous," said Shadrick.

Lance Boyd, Executive Director for Student Achievement at Great Falls Public Schools, shared the district's plan for resuming classes.

"We met with Great Falls Fire Rescue and determined that grades kindergarten, first, second, and third. As well as our special education staff. And specialists are able to stay at Lincoln Elementary. Grade four will be at Lewis and Clark Elementary, and grades five and six will be over at Parris Gibson Education Center," Boyd said.

Shadrick, who has been keeping an eye on Lincoln Elementary for two decades, expressed her affection for the school.

"I love my school. I call it my school because I have so much entertainment. When the children have their recesses and you see the little cliques here and there, and it's just it's just a really nice for an old lady," said Shadrick.

Great Falls Public Schools announced that teachers will begin contacting parents with their plans on Tuesday.

For more on Great Falls Public Schools and updates on Lincoln Elementary, visit their official website.