275 people packed into a small gymnasium in Oliver Thursday night to hear operational plans for 489 students without a complete high school to attend.

Older parts of Southern Okanagan Secondary School burned to the ground Monday and portables will be used until newer sections of the 29 million dollar project can be brought on line including gyms, science rooms and a cafeteria – these were heavily damaged but not completely destroyed.

Grade 10-11-12 students will get the first portables available and will report Monday to the remaining high school. Grade 8-9 students will pick up course material at the Oliver Catholic church and use that as base of operation for some time.

Bev Young, new Superintendent of Schools says it is amazing what staff have been able to do in such a short time between the fire and this meeting in getting a new school year organized.

The meeting heard comments about asbestos in an old wing, the suspicious nature of the fire, what parts of the building are covered by insurance and samples of fire debris will be analyzed and a report received within about 60 days.

RCMP say no suspects are  in custody and the matter is it an active investigation into an fire of undetermined origin. Sergeant Ken Harrington said a member was on the scene before the 911 call was received at about 2:20 a.m.

The highlight of the night was a visit from members of the local fire department led by Chief Danny Skaros. They received a standing ovation and shouts of “a job well done”.