As El Paso continues grappling with the impact of a major water main break, schools in the area are adjusting to ensure student and staff safety amid widespread service disruptions. El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) announced changes in operation for several campuses, with some resuming under a Boil Water Notice and others remaining closed. In accordance with the latest updates from El Paso Water Utilities, affected schools are taking measures such as providing bottled water and closing water fountains, according to the El Paso ISD.
Staying open on January 13 under strict safety protocols, a list includes Andress High School, Irvin High School, and several middle and elementary schools. Navigating this inconvenience, they have bottled water on hand and have taken water fountains out of commission for student protection, as stated by El Paso ISD. Meanwhile, other campuses such as Canyon Hills Middle School and Navarette Middle School will keep their doors closed. EPISD has asked all staff from these closed campuses to check in with their supervisors regarding their reporting locations for Tuesday.
Despite the challenges being faced, regular bus routes will remain in service. EPISD assures that buses will pick up students from their usual stops, even if those are situated near campuses that are presently shuttered due to the water issues. The district is also excusing absences for students from the Northeast who can't make it to school because of the ongoing water service interruption, as confirmed by a report on their website. The announcement encourages families and staff to stay informed through the district's official communication channels.
In response to the water main break initially reported on January 11, the district has been working closely with Fort Bliss to provide additional water resources as part of a greater collaborative effort between agencies. "Our teams have been working overnight and into this morning to stay closely aligned with the latest information from El Paso Water and other partner agencies. Every decision we are making is data-driven, centered on one clear priority: the safety, security, and well-being of our students and staff," as per El Paso ISD. EPISD maintains its commitment to resuming normal operations safely and will keep the community updated as the situation evolves.
