Schools will be ready for the first day of class on Monday after nearly two million dollars has been spent on massive renovations over the summer holidays.

A team of four men headed by Minister for Works and Engineering Alex Scott, toured schools yesterday to check on progress, and it is likely work will continue until Monday morning as classrooms are cleaned and prepared for the influx of students.

Joining the Minister were Eldon Binns, Western Depot Superintendent, Ed Pereira, Buildings Manager, and Tyrone Sampson, Electrical Superintendent.

The team visited Heron Bay Primary, Gilbert Institute, Victor Scott Primary, Dellwood Middle School, West Pembroke Primary, Elliot Primary, Francis Patton Primary, Harrington Sound Primary, Clearwater Middle School and St. George's Preschool.

At Victor Scott Primary, Mr. Scott met with Principal Esme Trott to discuss completed and ongoing work at one of Bermuda's oldest schools which has taken nine weeks and $310,000 and is only part of the whole maintenance programme.

Mr. Scott said: "I am extremely pleased that all work has come in on time and under budget.'' He also said the schools superintendents, the private sector, and Works and Engineering have occasionally been working seven day weeks to complete the work before schools open on Monday.

He said all the principals he had spoken to were pleased with the renovations.

Ongoing work included making all schools accessible for wheelchairs and special needs students by constructing ramps and new bathroom facilities and $212,000 will be spent on these facilities.

Other completed work include Clearwater School on Southside which had it's roof covering replaced and Heron Bay Primary School which was completely rewired as the old system was failing and not sufficient to handle the installation of new computer equipment and air conditioning.

Mr. Scott said they were very focused on what the priorities were and that parents had nothing to worry about as the schools were well maintained and the actual school buildings are in good condition.

Mr. Scott highlighted one budgetary concern as the increasing Belco bill, caused by increasing fuel costs.

However, Mr. Ed Pereira pointed out steps have been taken to reduce the spiralling cost of energy by installing efficient lighting units and generally improved lighting.