Tornado damages Sikeston Public Schools property

Damage is shown Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at Sikeston High School. (Gina Curtis/Standard Democrat)

SIKESTON — Sikeston Public Schools received severe damage in parts of the district following the tornado that blew through Sikeston early Sunday, May 26.

According to Sikeston R-6 officials, significant damage occurred at the former Orscheln building which is currently being renovated by the school district for use by Sikeston Career and Technology Center students.

Structural engineers have inspected the building and determined where structures are safe. District officials have also met with Dille Pollard Architecture, Zoellner Construction Co. Inc., and their insurance company.

Andy McGill, assistant superintendent of human resources and support for Sikeston Public Schools said, the former Orscheln building, which will house the EMT fire classes and construction classes, will be ready for students in August as originally planned.

McGill also said the majority of the damage to the rest of the district is roof damage and water damage caused by significant wind and trees falling on buildings.

“We do have damage to multiple buildings within our district,” McGill said. 

School vans were also damaged; fences were blown away, and several large trees are down throughout the district, he said.

“We feel like we have a really good plan in place to repair the damage,” McGill said. “However we are not sure how long everything is going to take.”

Lorrie McClinton, director of building and grounds for Sikeston R-6, was in contact Sunday morning with many local contractors who responded immediately to begin mitigation procedures.

“We are so thankful for all of our community partners for their instant and continued support as the mitigation process continues,” said Sikeston R-6 Superintendent Shannon Holifield.