ELLSWORTH, Kan. — Heavy rainfall early Sunday morning caused significant water damage to the Ellsworth Junior/Senior High School Performing Arts Center (PAC). The stage, band and choir rooms, adjoining office areas, and PAC flooring were all affected.
USD 327 Superintendent of Schools Deena Hilbig said in a statement Monday that due to the extent of the water damage and the mitigation efforts now underway, these areas are not usable at this time. All scheduled events for the PAC have been put on hold and the school’s fall musical has been postponed indefinitely.
A time frame for repairs and restoration is currently unknown, but Hilbig said they want to be transparent that the spring timeline remains unknown. Consideration will be given for relocating programming and events when possible, and information on that will be released as decisions are made.
Hilbig said USD 327 appreciates the public’s patience and understanding as we work through this unexpected situation. “Our priority is to ensure the facility is safe and restored so it can once again serve as a hub for student learning and community events.” she said.
This is the second rain related event to impact a central Kansas school district in recent months. Flooding from torrential rains in June and July entered into the McPherson High School Roundhouse, the first event June 17-18 destroying the floor of the historic gym.
