The Abilene Independent School District said inspections found cracks in cast iron sewer piping beneath the Woodson Center for Excellence. The district said the cracks were found after reports of a sewer odor in part of the building. Superintendent Dr. Joe Waldron wrote in a letter to families and staff that the district investigated the odor, including work with an outside plumbing contractor. The district said the building is nearly 100 years old.
Waldron said the district conducted air quality assessments but did not release the results. He said the statement did not establish whether reported illnesses were related to the plumbing issue. He wrote that he understands the frustration and concern the situation has caused and apologized for the disruption.
The district said it is using HEPA air-cleaning equipment and other odor-control products. According to the letter, it is in the final stages of securing a contractor to repair the underground piping. No completion date was given. Waldron said district and campus leaders are evaluating conditions daily, including whether changes to learning spaces are needed. The district said it will keep families and staff informed.