The Putnam County School System has renewed a Memorandum of Understanding between Monterey High School and Standing Stone Care & Rehabilitation for the emergency use of Monterey High School facilities.
Monterey High School Assistant Principal Benjamin Novak said if needed, Standing Stone could relocate its residents to Monterey High School in an emergency. Novak said the agreement has been in place for several years.
“We have, you know, of course, a large facility, restrooms, showers, anything that they might need, to help take care of their residents,” Novak said. “So we felt it was just a great, you know, easy spot for them to get to if they need it.”
Novak said Standing Stone has not had to use the high school since the agreement was first established. Novak said the agreement is just another part to the school trying to be a good member in the community.
“Providing them with a safe space in case they need it, is truly important because it not only helps out, you know, the business of Standing Stone, but also their residents who are, you know, they are our family members. That’s our grandparents, our aunts and uncles. That’s people that we want to make sure are taken care of.”
Novak said emergencies can arise out of nowhere, ranging from power outages to losing heating and cooling. Novak said if Standing Stone needed to move in an emergency, they would set up in the gym.
“It’s on the lower main floor of the building,” Novak said. “It has ease of access for any ambulances or wheelchairs. There are no stairs, no ramps, nothing that is needed. It’s just a quick in and is also located next to multiple bathroom facilities and showers.”
Novak said it is not only important to support students, but also to support the families in the community. The agreement is withstanding until modified or terminated by either party.