GW Middle School To Reopen After Pipe Burst

ALEXANDRIA, VA—After the holiday and some inclement weather, students at George Washington Middle School had a few extra days off due to a pipe burst. The fire marshal announced it was safe for students to return to the school Friday, Jan. 12.

The middle school has been closed since the evening of Tuesday, Jan. 9 for repairs after a frozen sprinkler pipe burst. The fire marshal had determined the building was unsafe until repairs occur.

While the pipe had been fixed as of Wednesday, the power had been off in parts of the building because the electric panel was still wet. In addition, the fire alarm system for the entire school had not been functioning.

As of Thursday, all fire sprinklers and fire alarm systems are working, except for alarm pull stations in the A wing of the building. The fire marshall has approved this area to open with additional monitoring by staff. This wing houses classes for grades six and seven and electives. Repairs to this fire alarm system should be done by close of business Friday.

Until school reopens, students may pick up crucial items between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Thursday by entering door one near the flagpole.

Officials will give an update when all repairs are complete.

"We understand that this has been a frustrating time for our school community and appreciate your support and patience. We look forward to welcoming students and staff back to school tomorrow," said the school district in a message to families.

Image via S. Stanton/Visit Alexandria