Hector A. Cafferata Jr. K-8 school reopens after Hurricane Ian damage

CAPE CORAL, Fla. (WINK) — A new K-8 school has opened in Cape Coral, replacing a campus badly damaged by Hurricane Ian.

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The Hector A. Cafferata Jr. K-8 School spans about 225,000 square feet across four buildings. The campus includes a large gymnasium and currently serves 900 students, with more expected to enroll.

Students had been learning at other schools or in portables since Hurricane Ian damaged the original building. The new facility features modern amenities designed with safety and flexibility in mind.

Principal Dr. Jason Kurtz led WINK News on a tour of the campus. He highlighted several unique features, including flexible seating options and innovative classroom furniture.

The school's cafetorium serves as both a cafeteria and performance space.

Safety features include individual restrooms instead of communal facilities, preventing multiple students from gathering in one place. The design also incorporates a large vestibule area where visitors are buzzed in and held before accessing the front office.

The school welcomed WINK News by displaying the station's logo on the new LED marquee at the front entrance.