Christian schools reopen in the wake of hurricanes.

USA (MNN)–Topping the news, Florida’s schools have reopened in the wake of a hurricane season that ravaged the state.

Association of Christian Schools International’s David Ray says they’re trying to reestablish the academic routine in spite of an estimated million dollars’ worth of damages to four schools.

Warner Christian Academy (South Daytona) lost use of eight classrooms due to the loss of a roof. They need teacher supplies, teacher desks, art supplies, copy paper, board games, flash cards, pens, pencils, and chalk.

Jupiter Christian School (Jupiter) lost the use of ten classrooms in their elementary building because the roof failed there. Equipment such as teacher desks, student desks, tables, and supplies are needed.

Community Christian School (Stuart) has had major roof damage. ACSI says they’re trying to raise funds to replace all the roofs and fix water damage in several classrooms.

The King’s Academy (West Palm Beach) lost the use of at least two classrooms, the media center, and clinic due to roof failure. Needs are still being assessed.

Repairs are ongoing, although Ray says official numbers may take awhile. “The devastation is so great in some parts of our state, that insurance adjusters are taking worst-case scenarios. If you still have a roof on your building, you’re not a worst-case scenario at this time if you can put a tarp on it.”

He says they’re seeing another effect of the hurricanes on the schools. “So many of our Christian schools and churches reached out to the community. They became relief stations and the opportunity for ministering to the community, and the opportunity to show that they cared just came out in so many special ways that as a result of that, parents are wanting to put their children in the schools now.”

While seeing new students coming in is an encouragement, there are a number of families leaving. They’re part of a growing number who have lost their homes and jobs and have been forced to leave the state.