COURTLAND
Southampton County Public School students have more than three weeks of vacation remaining, but administrators and teachers have been working all summer to keep the facility in peak shape.

“Our schools are in very good condition [and are] ready to receive our students and teachers back for the year,” said Superintendent Dr. Alvera J. Parrish. “I can’t believe that it’s come so quickly.

“We’re getting there and still doing some bits and pieces, but you can see the bulk of work is done,” she added. “[The maintenance staff] has been very focused this year, making sure the lawns have been kept up and the buildings have been refurbished to a great extent.”

The most visible change at the high school is the updated track, which can now host local track meets.

“The metroplex’s rubber surface has been successfully laid on the track, and lines and markers are scheduled to be painted by the same company in approximately two weeks,” Parrish said. “The athletic director [Tim Mason] has been given instructions on how to deal with the surface of the track. We’re going to have to be careful with high heels and track shoes … but we’re excited about that.”

The superintendent added that construction of the greenhouse has been delayed because of troubles with the foundation, but will resume shortly.

Southampton will offer parents and students alike the chance to tour its six schools during various open house dates. They are as follows:

• Southampton High – Aug. 31 at 5 p.m., Sept. 1 at 4 p.m. and Sept 3 at 4 p.m.

• Southampton Middle – Sept. 1 at 5:30 p.m. and Sept. 3 at 5:30 p.m.

• All elementary schools – Sept. 2 at 4 p.m.

Classes begin on Sept. 8.

“We’re ready to roll,” Parrish said.