Busted Pipe Will Not Cause Interruptions For N-O Schools

After waking up to the news of a busted pipe at Neligh-Oakdale's Eastward school, administrators have announced that there will be no delays or changes to the school's schedule.

"After working with contractors and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office to fix a damaged pipe, I’m pleased to report that Neligh-Oakdale Public Schools, will have full use of school facilities.  School will continue as scheduled," said superintendant Scott Gregory.

Workers from Ahern, who installed the fire sprinklers, were on site mid-morning to repair the broken pipe, which was located near the middle of the outdoor walkway from East Ward elementary and the band room.

Temperatures in Neligh on Sunday morning dipped to negative 25 degrees. It is unknown what the temperature was in the area that housed the pipe or what temperature the heat sensors read Sunday morning. The walkway itself is open at both ends with uninsulated walls and a roof. 

There was no water damage to the interior of the school. The only affected area was the partially covered walkway from the school to the band room.

According to Gregory, at about 4:35 a.m., the fire alarm system went off due to a frozen sprinkler pipe in the outside walkway leading to the band room. 

There were several people at the school when the issue occured due to a planned sleepover with the local Cub Scouts. Gregory said scouts were sent home with parents in attendance. Those without parents present, were relocated to the superintendent's home next to the school with scout leaders.

"A special thank you to the Neligh Fire Department and Chief Mortensen, Antelope County dispatchers and law enforcement, Ahern Fire, Electronic Systems, Cubmaster Kraig Nelson, Neligh-Oakdale employee Lloyd Meis, our board of education, as well as all of our staff and patrons who have been overwhelmingly supportive of our school during this time," Gregory added.