Beginning December 1, two Essex County school districts will be receiving money from a New Jersey insurance fund in the first round of reimbursements for damage from Sandy.

Livingston and Caldwell/West Caldwell school districts are part of School Alliance Insurance Fund (SAIF), which recently received $5 million from Lexington Insurance as prepayment for losses that could eventually total $20 million statewide, according to Stephanie Voorhees, SAIF chairwoman.

Voorhees said the final figures will be based on inspections from insurance adjustors, who are working overtime to check claims for damaged roofs, solar panels, school equipment and grounds as well as flood losses and food spoilage. 

Individual reimbursements will range from $1,000 to $7.5 million, depending on the severity of the claim.

“The schools desperately need these funds,” said Voorhees. “This is by far the most catastrophic damage we’ve ever seen in New Jersey. Our hearts go out to all the schools, children, teachers and parents impacted by Sandy. A lot of work needs to be done, and we’re happy to be part of the rebuilding effort.”

The schools earmarked for reimbursements are part of the 144-member SAIF organization, based in West Windsor, New Jersey, which covers every county in the state. According to Voorhees, the fund has been offering lower insurance rates to selected school districts with excellent insurance records for more than 15 years.