Park Elementary in Kearney will Reopen on Thursday

(KEARNEY, Neb)

Students will be able to go back to Park Elementary school in Kearney on Thursday after crews have cleaned up damage done by a May 5 lightning strike.

Kearney Public Schools said lightning struck a brick chimney damaging about 90% of the roof. The strike also damaged three HVAC units and a building automation system.

The school was closed Monday and Tuesday. Park students will be out of the building Wednesday for a previously planned field trip. They should be able to return to the building Thursday.

The cost of repairs is estimated to be in the millions. The roof will be replaced over the summer, and because it was replaced last year it’s still under warranty with Springer Roofing.

KPS Facilities Director Trent Bosard said, “The good news is that all electrical, technology, fire alarm, security system, phones, and fobs are up and running. We have a lot of wet areas in the building that will dry out in the next couple of days.”

With a few weeks left of school, it was important to finish strong.