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Back to School in New Orleans

By Kathyrn Satterfield

For many kids, this time of†year brings thoughts of snow days and holidays. But for students returning to school in New Orleans, Louisiana, a day off is the last thing on their minds.

On November 28, Benjamin Franklin Elementary became the first public school in New Orleans to reopen since Hurricane Katrina. Public schools have been closed since the storm hit on August 29. A few private schools reopened in October.

About 120 kids showed up for class last Monday. The number of students grew to 293 by Thursday. In all, 375 are expected to return. Some traveled from nearby towns, where their families had relocated. George Lee, 9, lives in New Orleans. He takes two buses each morning to get to the school. "I'm glad to be back," he says.

The opening brings hope to a devastated city. A high school is set to reopen in January, and officials aim to open more schools soon. The schools could draw families back. Of the 300,000 people who fled the city, only about 60,000 have returned.

Many families don't have anyplace to live. Nearly 284,000 homes are badly damaged. Much of the city is without heat or power. The ground is littered with waterlogged cars, garbage and other debris.

The Army Corps of Engineers is repairing the city's flood-protection system. Many residents say the system needs major changes. But this could cost tens of billions of dollars and take decades to build. Some people worry that the city can't afford it.

Last week, Mayor Ray Nagin spoke to evacuees in Houston, Texas. He urged them to return and rebuild New Orleans. "I need your help," he said.

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