Iraqi Elementary School in Rashid Reopens After Refurbishment

A U.S. Army captain in the area says the school refurbishment is a testament to the level of care for the neighborhood.

al-Harat School Photo courtesy: Joanna Fox Army Public Affairs

(BAGHDAD, Iraq) - The al-Harat Elementary School in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad reopened July 31st, after 2 months of refurbishment. The school will open its new doors to more than 1,000 Iraqi boys and girls from 7-12 years old, and 60 teachers in September.

Army officials say that among the improvements made to the school were window unit air conditioners, interior and exterior paint, new doors, new chalkboards and a generator to supply the school with electricity.

"The school looks very good," said Ali, who has served as the school's principal for 25 years. "It is like a new house for the students. Now that we have a new-looking school, it will allow the students to work harder and better."

The funds for the project came from the GoI, said Lt. Col. Timothy Watson, a 1st BCT, 4th ID bn cmdr.

"This is one of the first schools to be refurbished in this area," Watson said. "We hope to work our way through all the schools."

"This school refurbishment is a testament to the level of care for the neighborhood," said Capt. Parsana Deoki, a 1st BCT, 4th ID co cmdr. "My Soldiers have taken the time to ensure work is done correctly and according to the scheduled scope of work."

"With the help of both CF and the District Council, this place has become a school again," said Capt. Yousif Ibrahim, the community SoI leader and neighborhood councilman. "On behalf of our neighborhood, principal and teachers, we give special thanks for giving us the security to make it happen."

With members of the Neighborhood and District Council and 60 teachers on his side, the school principal has plans to add 5 new classrooms with the hope of giving the children the best opportunity to learn.

Source: Joanna Fox/U.S. Army