OSAKA -- The elementary school in Ikeda, Osaka Prefecture, where eight children were fatally stabbed in June, completed construction of a temporary schoolhouse Wednesday for the resumption of classes this month.
Osaka Kyoiku University Ikeda Elementary School in Ikeda also removed the same day a tent and tables that were set up in front of the school's main gate after the massacre so people could place flowers and pay their respects. The offerings will be moved to a memorial site to be set up inside the temporary school building, school officials said.
Several people visited the school gate and prayed Wednesday. Having learned of the removal of the tent, a 31-year-old man from Osaka's Yodogawa Ward said: "I'm glad I could make it here in time. I hope the children will be able to return to a peaceful school life soon."
The two-story prefabricated building, whose construction was started on July 12, is about 4,600 sq. meters. It is designed so that teachers in the staff room have a view over all the classrooms.
After parents see the new buildings Aug. 23, the school will hold an opening ceremony for the new school term on Aug. 27, they said.