The CNMI's largest middle school could finally see some major reconstruction after six out of their nine buildings on campus were destroyed by Supertyphoon Yutu in 2018.

Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell saw the devastation that has been sitting at Hopwood Middle School since Super Typhoon Yutu hit in 2018. Acting Commissioner of Education Donna Flores spoke with the federal officials who toured the island.

"I think we have waited a long time," she expressed. "We have waited six years and granted there were some local factors or variables that played a role in the delay but nonetheless, she was very thankful to hear firsthand just what is happening there, what our kids are experiencing, our staff, and she did assure that she will support us however she can in expediting the project."

The campus, which has over 600 students, still has a full-day schedule. However, each classroom is being shared by two different classes.

"Worldwide kids suffered learning loss and loss of instructional time during the pandemic, but just the condition of the set up of Hopwood Middle School now and how classes are, many kids are more than two years behind," she said.

And as the school system strives to address those needs, the acting commissioner says the U.S. Dept. of Education approved their intent to use American Rescue Plan funds for 20 modular classrooms. In 2020, FEMA awarded $25 million for repairs and full replacement of buildings for the middle school. Demolition is expected in the next month or two.