Elkhorn, August 14, 2025
News Summary
The Elkhorn School District is grappling with serious compliance issues at its new elementary schools, Iron Bluff and Stone Pointe. With unfinished construction and safety concerns reported by parents, the absence of a valid certificate of occupancy heightens worries. Despite the district claiming safety measures are in place, ongoing inspections have revealed code violations, prompting state-level scrutiny. As students begin classes amidst construction, the district’s commitment to ensuring a safe learning environment remains under critical evaluation.
New Elkhorn Elementary Schools Raise Compliance Concerns
Two new elementary schools, Iron Bluff Elementary and Stone Pointe Elementary, opened their doors amidst significant compliance concerns during their first day of classes. The Elkhorn School District faces scrutiny after an investigation revealed that the schools may not meet the safety regulations set by the city of Omaha, which raises questions about the appropriateness of allowing students on-site.
Despite these findings, the Elkhorn School District asserts that both schools are safe for students and staff. However, students entering Iron Bluff Elementary encountered ongoing construction activities, including heavy machinery and unfinished walkways, disruptively impacting their arrival on the first day of classes. Conditions at Stone Pointe Elementary were equally troubling, with construction work visible outside the building.
Parents of young students expressed growing frustration and concern regarding the unfinished conditions inside the schools. Some noted alarming issues such as wiring hanging from ceilings, lack of electricity and air conditioning, and the presence of construction crews that could potentially impact student safety. Specific reports from parents indicate serious safety hazards that have not yet been resolved.
Inspection reports have further highlighted significant issues concerning fire prevention systems, plumbing, heating, cooling systems, and storm shelter inspections. Anna Bespoyasny, the building superintendent responsible for permits and inspections in Omaha, confirmed that the Elkhorn School District currently does not possess a certificate of occupancy, making their operation in these facilities unlawful and potentially dangerous.
As outlined by city officials, occupying buildings without a valid certificate breaches city laws. Furthermore, it has been indicated that although the schools do not meet compliance standards, they are presently exempt from penalty fees typically associated with operating without such a certificate.
The Elkhorn School District and Prairie Construction, responsible for the facilities’ construction, maintained that previous inspections and necessary corrective measures were enacted to ensure safe use of the buildings. They emphasized that only minor work, such as landscaping, remains incomplete.
Compounding these issues are ongoing concerns at the state level regarding code violations that pose a risk to students in the current construction conditions. Though there are notable non-compliance issues, city officials have stated that their options for recourse are limited due to existing municipal regulations.
In light of the construction ongoing within the schools, the school district has made arrangements for students to utilize alternate play areas. Playground and kitchen facilities remain under construction, with meals being prepared off-site until the schools can fully open their amenities. Moreover, the district has acknowledged that although several safety features and inspections required for occupancy have been satisfied, many major areas of both schools are still unfinished.
Multiple construction initiatives undertaken by the district over the summer have resulted in delays and added complications to the current situation. However, officials anticipate that confirmation of completion dates will be forthcoming in the coming weeks.
In advance of the school year, parents were apprised about the construction conditions and informed that measures were in place to ensure student safety and well-being during the ongoing renovations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What issues are the new Elkhorn elementary schools facing?
The schools are not compliant with city safety laws, with significant deficiencies noted in various systems including fire prevention, plumbing, and cooling systems.
Are the schools safe for students?
The Elkhorn School District claims both schools are safe, despite concerns regarding construction safety hazards and unfinished work.
What is a certificate of occupancy, and why is it important?
A certificate of occupancy is an official document confirming that a building is compliant with building codes and safe for use. The absence of this document is a legal violation in the context of student occupancy.
What actions is the school district taking to address safety concerns?
The district asserts it has taken necessary corrective actions and has completed safety inspections but acknowledges that significant areas remain unfinished.
How are students being accommodated during construction?
Students are using alternate play areas, and meals are being prepared at another location while kitchen facilities are under construction.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- WOWT: City of Omaha Says Elkhorn Schools with Unfinished Construction are Violating Law
- KETV: Elkhorn Elementary Schools Violating City Code, Officials Say
- 3 News Now: New Elkhorn Elementary School to Open with Construction Still Underway
- Google Search: Elkhorn School District Construction Issues
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Safety Standards
Author: Construction TX News
TEXAS STAFF WRITER The TEXAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructiontxnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Texas and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Texas Construction Expo, major infrastructure unveilings, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated General Contractors of Texas and the Texas Building Branch, plus leading businesses in construction and real estate that power the local economy such as Austin Commercial and CMiC Global. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructionflnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
