Middle School Update: Plumbing Issue Resolved

Dear Families,
I want to take a moment to follow up regarding the plumbing issue at our middle school that began on April 10. Despite our best efforts, the issue could not be fully resolved before school started on Monday morning, which resulted in a 2-hour delayed start to ensure students returned to a safe and operational campus. Those additional 2-hours allowed the school staff to create a safe plan for students upon entry, and we had hoped the issue could be resolved before they arrived.  However, repairs continued late into the day Monday, and again on Tuesday morning.  

I’m pleased to share that the issue has now been resolved. The cause was significant root growth in a line located beneath the parking lot. The line has been cleared, and we are already planning for a replacement of the original concrete line this summer, when school is not in session, to avoid these issues in the future.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our district maintenance staff, Tri County Plumbing, and the City of North Bend for their coordinated efforts and long hours to get this resolved as quickly as possible, and to Li'l Stinker Portable Restrooms for setting up restrooms stations over the weekend.  

I also want to clarify an important point, as some inaccurate information was shared on social media. At no time was drinking water unavailable to students, and our kitchen remained fully operational throughout this situation, as it is connected to a separate line. Our principal, Jake Smith, communicated directly to students upon their arrival Monday morning that the drinking fountains remained functional.

During this time, we implemented temporary restroom solutions to ensure student needs were fully met. The numerous portable restrooms set up functioned well, including ADA-accessible options. All students had full access to these facilities. They were under adult supervision and checked frequently throughout the day to ensure they remained clean and operational, and handwashing stations were kept fully supplied with water. I also want to give an additional thank you to our custodial staff for their ongoing attention and support in maintaining these facilities.

We understand and appreciate that families care deeply about student safety. However, during this situation, some inaccurate information circulated on social media and was reported to the health department about drinking water and food service that were not correct. When misinformation spreads, it can create unnecessary concern and confusion. 

If you ever have questions about school operations, I strongly encourage you to contact the school directly, first. A quick phone call allows us to provide accurate, real-time information and ensure that concerns are addressed appropriately. Please, just ask us. Our intentions are always to keep students safe and to provide you with the most accurate information possible.  

Most importantly, I want to thank our students, staff, and families for their patience and flexibility. Our students handled the situation well, and we were able to continue instruction with minimal disruption. As always, student safety remains our highest priority.

Sincerely, 
Tim Crider 
Superintendent