Princeville students displaced by Matthew finally back in classroom

TARBORO, NC (WTVD) -- It's back to school for hundreds of Princeville Elementary School students displaced because of Hurricane Matthew.

The students will attend classes at Bridger's Family Resource Center in Tarboro, and that will likely be their home for the rest of the school year.

Princeville Elementary students will be greeted at their temporary location in Tarboro around 7:30 a.m. Thursday.

Students have been out of school for about three weeks.

Flooding filled the hallways and classrooms at the original Princeville Elementary. Because of the damage, the school will have to be gutted and inspected before it can be rebuilt.

The superintendent estimates it could take up to two years for their original school to be repaired.

Some teachers said although they are still feeling the effects of Hurricane Matthew, they're excited to see their students again.

"There's been some sadness. There's been some anger...just some up and down roller coaster ride of emotions," said third grade teacher Meredith Verrillo. "But we just have to remember that we are here for the kids and we have to be strong for our students. We've got to keep that positive attitude. That's how we're really feeling. We're excited and positive to have them back."

Students are still in need of school supplies and winter gear. If you'd like to help, you can drop off gloves, scarves, coats, and jackets to the administration office at 2311 North Main Street in Tarboro.