A space-sharing arrangement whereby families surrounding a Cootamundra school have been able to enter the school grounds after hours and during holidays may come to an end because of vandalism.
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The E A Southee Public School, notable for its lovely buildings, had one of its main classrooms, for students in years five and six, flooded last weekend when a running hose was stuck under the door.
The vandals also smashed cisterns and bowls in the junior girls toilets.
The repair bill for new carpets and toilets has been put at $10,000.
Year 5/6 students have been taking their lessons in the school hall this week because the carpet in their classroom is too soggy despite repeated attempts to dry it out.
Police and security officers from the Department of Education have attended, with a follow-up visit by a forensic unit taking fingerprints.
School Principal Leonie Stevenson said the damage was "mindlesss and disappointing".
"If it was aimed at the school the perpetrators should realise the ones most affected are the students," Ms Stevenson said.
"It has a direct impact on their learning and adds to their anxiety levels.
"The school has supported the local community allowing students during the holidays with the Sharing Our Space program whereby families are legally permitted to enter school grounds to use the Department of Education's outdoor equipment and space.
"It would be sad if this opportunity was no longer offered to the community and a return to the days when it was illegal to enter school property out of school hours."
The damage was reported by a parent who visited the school with their children on Saturday afternoon, noticing water pouring out everywhere.
It is expected year 5/6 students will have to continue using the hall for some time, until repairs are completed to work health and safety expectations.
