IQALUIT - A 23-year-old man has been arrested for charges relating to vandalism at Inukshuk High School that took place on Easter weekend.

A 23-year-old man has been arrested for charges relating to vandalism at Inukshuk High School that took place on Easter weekend. - NNSL file photo

Andy Akulukjuk is charged with breaking and entering, mischief over $5,000 and failing to comply with an undertaking.

During the early hours of April 2, RCMP were called to the school after they received a call about a break and enter, according to an RCMP press release.

RCMP said someone entered the building and made their way to a second floor chemistry lab.

"That's where the major damage was caused," said Kevin Trudel, acting director of property and asset management with GN's Department of Community and Government Services.

Trudel said an individual kicked over a sink in the chemistry lab and tampered with water lines, causing a flood.

Water leaked through to the first floor, damaging ceiling tiles, carpeting and flooring – all of which Trudel said will have to be replaced.

The individual entered the chemistry lab by breaking tiles and going through the drop down ceiling as the door to the lab was locked. An alarm was triggered by the excessive amounts of water and officials were notified, said RCMP.

Administrative offices on the first floor of the school located below the chemistry lab suffered water damage.

Plaques with the names of graduating students were ripped from the walls in the cafeteria area.

The kitchen sustained some damage as the individual damaged the appliances, threw shelving down where pots, pans and other kitchen utensils were stored, Trudel said. Flour was thrown throughout the kitchen.

The Rotary Club brunch during Toonik Tyme had to be cancelled as the group was going to be using the school's kitchen and cafeteria facilities.

"It is the only location that accommodates (the brunch)," said club president Al Hayward.

He had said the annual brunch is a way for the club to give back to the community.

"It's a real shame," said Hayward.

The school had been closed for renovations during spring break.

It is scheduled to re-open on April 12. Trudel said he expects all the clean-up be done by then.

"It is a little demoralizing, we are in the midst of doing some renovations to do the school, it always seems like one step forward and a couple steps back," he said.

At press time there was no estimated cost of damage.