Bend-La Pine officials: Several schools experiencing leaks

(Update: More details on 2017 bond measure to fix schools roofs)

Officials say several Bend schools are experiencing leaks from snow building up on the roofs. The snow has led to ice dams, and now water is dripping into some classrooms.

maintenance staff are tackling the leaks and other snow removal issues as fast as possible.Representatives from Bend-La Pine Schools said Friday that

One teacher at Juniper Elementary said the school had to bring in trash cans to collect the leaking water, and the problem is only getting worse.

has some people concerned.That

“It doesn’t surprise me that with this much snow and this much ice the schools are having issues again,” said Lara Hodge, who picked up two students from Juniper Elementary Friday. “If you have water coming in the classroom, it could be a slip hazard. Come spring, there could be mold issues if it’s not dried correctly.”

Officials say replacement projects are ongoing, funded by a 2017 construction bond measure.

There are eight Bend-La Pine schools awaiting a new roof courtesy of that bond: Amity Creek Elementary, Bear Creek Elementary, Bend Senior High School, Juniper Elementary, La Pine High School, Pilot Butte Middle School, Sky View Middle School and Summit High School.