Classes have not yet resumed in 249 public schools in Costa Rica in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Nate, which dumped at least 24 hours of straight rain on much of the country from October 5-6, said the Ministry of Public Education (MEP).

Of these schools, 236 suffered extensive damage from flooding and other consequences of the strong storm, and the remaining 13 schools, also in hard-hit areas, are functioning as shelters in communities that have no other place for those who lost their homes.

“In the Los Santos area, specifically the cantons of Acosta, León Cortés, Tarrazú and Dota, 208 centers continue to have adverse conditions to provide educational services such as lack of water, electricity and access problems,” said the MEP in a statement. These areas are located south of San José in the Talamanca mountain range.

Other institutions still closed due to issues relating to hygiene, cleanliness, access and other safety concerns have maintained parents informed of local and regional decisions, added the MEP.

School directors in affected areas must undertake the following in order to guarantee the safe return of students, teachers and staff to schools:

* Initial assessment of the physical conditions of the institution.
* Reorganizing tasks for resuming lessons.
* Academic coordination to make-up for lost days.
* Communication with parents and community members.

The MEP said they continue to follow recommendations issued by the National Emergency Commission (CNE) in the wake of the destructive storm, which has thousands still in shelters, many without water and many still trying to return their houses and communities to livable conditions.

Monday, October 16 is a national holiday in Costa Rica, with all schools out of session.