Parents express frustration over temporary closure of Brákarborg preschool in Iceland

Parents of children at the Brákarborg preschool in Iceland are expressing frustration over the current situation following the temporary closure of the facility due to discovered cracks in its walls. The children are expected to start school next Monday in a temporary location in Ármúli. City officials have scheduled a meeting with parents today.

Helgi Júlíus Sævarsson, a parent and member of the preschool’s parent council, has voiced concerns that the new premises are unsuitable for preschool activities. Although efforts are underway to make the temporary space as child-friendly as possible, many parents remain dissatisfied with the conditions. Issues have been raised regarding the limited outdoor area, which seemingly consists only of a parking lot, along with potential noise disturbances inside the building.

Helgi explained that parents have been informed there were no alternative facilities available from the city. The preschool will operate with a capacity limited to 75 children, as mandated by health authorities, which poses a challenge for families with multiple children enrolled. The lack of adequate communication from the city regarding the duration of the situation and repair timelines has left many parents anxious.

Additionally, there are concerns about the strain on the preschool staff, who faced significant staffing challenges and department closures over the past winter. The parents are seeking clarity on how long the preschool will remain in its temporary location and questions about safety measures during the repair process.

The city has indicated that a detailed renovation plan will be developed, with further information expected as the design progresses. Meanwhile, the preschool principal will be authorized to hire additional staff to manage the changes.