The first day of the school year 2007-2008 found the boys on the grounds of their new campus on Paris Avenue two blocks from Filmore Avenue. The students from fifth through twelfth grades attend classes in portable classrooms raised several feet in the air (just in case another flood occurs).
The only familiar things to the boys from their beloved Old Campus are live oaks and the blue tables and benches that they brought with them.
It was 100 degrees in the shade when this photo was taken but the boys were quietly attending a class under the oaks.
The construction of the new permanent structure will begin shortly. Holy Cross had been in its other site since the mid 1800's.
My heart went out to these boys. Hardly anyone has returned to their homes in this area since the floodwaters after Katrina. In fact, this area looked more desolate to me than around the old campus.
To me this was utter despair because of the ties my family has to the old campus. However, to these boys it is an adventure and the anticipation of a new campus and school. I know that I, too, must see it this way or I will forever grieve for what was.