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.
Ongoing Construction Raises Compliance Concerns at New Elkhorn Elementary Schools Amid First Day of Classes
The Elkhorn School District has recently opened two new elementary schools, Iron Bluff Elementary and Stone Pointe Elementary, but serious compliance issues have emerged following reports from a local investigation. These schools are currently not adhering to Omaha city law, raising questions about their suitability for student occupancy during the first day of classes.
Despite these findings, the Elkhorn School District maintains that both schools are safe and ready for students. However, kindergarten through fifth-grade students faced challenges on their first day amid active construction areas. Iron Bluff Elementary presented heavy equipment and unfinished sidewalks that posed potential hazards.
Stone Pointe Elementary was similarly affected, with construction work ongoing outside the building. Frustrated parents reported encountering numerous unfinished conditions inside the schools. Issues included welding work, lack of electricity or air conditioning, as well as construction crews still working on-site.
Concerns were notably voiced by parents like Stacy Morris, who identified safety hazards such as dangling cords from ceilings and other construction-related issues while navigating the hallways of Iron Bluff. Moreover, inspection reports have raised alarming deficiencies in critical systems, including fire prevention, plumbing, heating, cooling, and storm shelter inspections.
According to Anna Bespoyasny, building superintendent for permits and inspections in Omaha, without a certificate of occupancy, the schools’ operations are considered unlawful. This situation places the Elkhorn School District at odds with city requirements for occupancy.
While the school district and Prairie Construction asserted that they had conducted prior inspections and made necessary corrective actions for safe occupancy—aside from landscaping and minor work—the city has indicated that the schools are in violation of local laws by occupying buildings without the proper certification.
Although city officials acknowledge the lack of compliance, there may be limited actions they can pursue due to existing municipal codes. Moreover, the schools are exempt from penalty fees which typically apply to non-compliant buildings.
Concerns have also been raised at the state level. Multiple code violations have been observed that could potentially endanger students under the current conditions. In response to these issues, the school district has advised parents of alternate play areas for children, with ongoing playground construction and kitchen facilities that will serve meals prepared at outside locations.
The Elkhorn School District admits that while safety features and inspections for full occupancy have been completed, substantial portions of both Iron Bluff and Stone Pointe Elementary schools remain unfinished. The district undertook numerous construction projects over the summer, which led to unexpected delays. However, expected completion dates should be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Prior to the opening of the schools, parents were informed about the existing construction conditions and reassured that measures were in place to ensure student safety and well-being during this period of transition. Despite the apprehensions expressed by many, the district continues to assert the overall safety of these educational facilities.
FAQ Section
What are the names of the new elementary schools in the Elkhorn School District?
The new elementary schools are Iron Bluff Elementary and Stone Pointe Elementary.
Why are there compliance concerns regarding the new elementary schools?
Compliance concerns arise because the schools are reportedly not meeting Omaha city laws, specifically lacking a necessary certificate of occupancy.
What issues were reported by parents on the first day of classes?
Parents reported unfinished conditions in the schools, including heavy construction work, lack of electricity and air conditioning, and visible safety hazards.
Have any inspections been conducted?
Inspection reports have indicated serious deficiencies in essential systems, including fire prevention and plumbing, raising significant concerns over student safety.
What actions is the school district taking regarding the construction?
The Elkhorn School District claims that prior inspections and corrective actions were taken for safe occupancy, although significant areas of the schools remain incomplete.
What will the district do about meals for students during construction?
The district has indicated that meals for students will be prepared at a different location until kitchen facilities are completed.
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 CA News
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