After the December wind event, we brought in a structural engineering firm to conduct a thorough review of the building. Their findings are serious. The roof support system has sustained significant damage—some of the main structural members are bent, and in some cases, broken. In its current condition, the structure can’t safely carry the loads it was designed for.
One thing to understand: we didn’t have full visibility into the damage right away. The false ceiling limited what could be seen during the initial review, and then the building had to be secured during asbestos abatement. Once engineers had full access to the structure, they completed a much more thorough evaluation—and that’s what led us to where we are now.
The engineers’ recommendation is clear. In the short term, the structure needs temporary support. In the long term, this is not a repair situation—the roof support system will need to be replaced.
We are working through this with our insurance carrier, and as part of that process, they have required an additional independent engineering review. That’s a standard step on a project of this size.
I know the gym matters—to our students, our staff, and this community. We don’t take that lightly. But we’re going to do this the right way, and that starts with making sure the building is safe.
We’ll continue to share updates as we have them.
Dave Whitesell, Superintendent