RICHMOND, Va. - Less than two weeks ago, Richmond preschool teacher Susan Hawes wasn't sure how Richmond Public School leaders were going to get the building ready for the upcoming school year.
"I was very concerned," said Hawes, "because everyone has seen the before pictures."
Her outlook had changed when CBS 6 caught up with her Monday morning.
"The transformation, I mean just look at it," said Hawes smiling.
A CBS 6 reporter, along with Susan and other teachers, first toured the old Summer Hill Elementary School last Thursday.
The pressure has been on ever since school leaders made a late emergency decision to move hundreds of pre-kindergarten students to the once-shuttered building, due to overcrowding in South Richmond.
Teachers and parents contacted CBS 6 frustrated and worried about the move.
Assistant Superintendent of Facilities, Tommy Kranz, knew it was going to be a challenge to have everything ready, but promised people would be working around the clock to get everything completed.
"It was work each and every day -- and we had to hit our marks," said Kranz. "We did and this is what resulted from it."
On Monday, Kranz gave CBS 6 and other community members an update on the progress, leaving many parents at ease.
"I'm very happy," said Regina Jarvis, whose grandson will be attending the school, "my stress level is down."
RPS is teaming up with Hands on Greater Richmond to help with landscaping and setting up teachers classrooms on Tuesday, August 30.
If you're interested in volunteering click here.
