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HOUSTON – Three Houston Independent School District schools had early dismissal on Wednesday after they had heating and water issues during the cold weather, HISD officials said during a news conference.
Henry Middle School, Port Houston Elementary, and Love Elementary were dismissed earlier than usual.
They had heater issues at Henry Middle School and the boiler tripped. Officials then brought in portable heaters, which led to the electrical system experiencing problems.
A water pipe also burst on the second floor and water started pouring onto the first floor. Students then had to be moved to a different area of the building.
Port Houston Elementary, Love Elementary, Harvard Elementary, and Pershing Middle School also had heater issues. The school district said it sent portable heaters to keep students warm at Harvard Elementary and Pershing Middle School.
“It very old infrastructure. The district has kicked the can down the road for far too long, so of course, there’s going to be some issues,” HISD Superintendent Mike Miles said. “I’m very proud of the staff, did great work, (they) showed that they were essential.”
Felix Cook Elementary School had its water shut off as crews worked to repair a water leak in the area.
Photos were sent to KPRC 2 that showed the situation at the school. There was a lot of water on the ground in one room near desks and couches. Part of the ceiling also broke off.
The school continued as usual, and officials said they set up wash stations, portable potties and handed out water bottles.
Despite some issues, HISD said the vast majority of schools did not have problems today.
Students also had to take their district exams, and many were still able to do this despite heating issues at some schools.