Milwaukee City Wire

Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) has completed its initial review of school buildings following recent record rainfall and flooding. According to the district, 24 schools were affected in some way by the weather event. In 22 of these cases, the damage was described as minor and repairs were made quickly.

As previously reported on August 11, most MPS schools did not experience significant problems from the rain or floods. The district stated that when larger issues did arise—such as classroom relocations at Riverside University High School and water intrusion in the boiler room at Obama School of Career and Technical Education—school communities were notified directly. Other affected schools also received communications about their specific situations.

Twelve schools require special attention due to asbestos found in tilework, which is more common in older buildings. "At 12 schools, due to the age of the building and the prevalence of asbestos in some tilework during this period, MPS is bringing in asbestos experts with 20+ years of experience to safely remove tiles. Air will be tested in the affected areas before the school reopens." The district emphasized that safety measures are being taken and air quality will be confirmed before students return.

The district also noted that all impacted areas will continue to be monitored for moisture to prevent further issues. "Regardless of whether the issue was minor or major, the district will continue to monitor affected schools and areas for moisture that could lead to additional potential impacts."

Despite these challenges, Milwaukee Public Schools expects classes to begin as scheduled while it assesses cleanup costs and seeks emergency relief funding. "The district expects to begin the school year as planned while it continues to assess the total cost of the cleanup and works to seek emergency relief funds to assist."

The following schools experienced some level of flood impact: Bay View High School, Forest Home Avenue School, Madison High School, Riverside University High School, Carmen Middle/High School of Science and Technology-Northwest, Fifty-Third Street School, Milwaukee Marshall High School, Thurston Woods School, Carver Academy of Mathematics and Science, Grant School, Milwaukee School of Languages, Townsend Street School, Curtin Leadership Academy, Grantosa Drive School, Morse Middle School for the Gifted and Talented, Escuela Vieau, Engleburg School, Hampton School, Obama School of Career and Technical Education, Vincent School of Agricultural Science, Fairview School, Lancaster School, Parkview School and Westside Academy.