Compliance Concerns Arise at New Elkhorn Elementary Schools

Elkhorn, August 14, 2025

News Summary

The Elkhorn School District is grappling with serious compliance issues at its new elementary schools, Iron Bluff and Stone Pointe. With unfinished construction and safety concerns reported by parents, the absence of a valid certificate of occupancy heightens worries. Despite the district claiming safety measures are in place, ongoing inspections have revealed code violations, prompting state-level scrutiny. As students begin classes amidst construction, the district’s commitment to ensuring a safe learning environment remains under critical evaluation.

Ongoing Construction Raises Compliance Concerns at New Elkhorn Elementary Schools on First Day of Classes

Two newly built elementary schools in the Elkhorn School District—Iron Bluff Elementary and Stone Pointe Elementary—face questions about city occupancy compliance as students returned for the first day of classes. Officials say the campuses are safe and secure for learners and staff, while city inspectors and state officials raise concerns about whether the buildings are legally eligible for occupancy. The situation centers on whether the schools should be open without a certificate of occupancy and the extent of ongoing construction and safety work.

On the first day of classes, kindergarten through fifth grade students encountered active construction zones at Iron Bluff Elementary, including heavy equipment operating near sidewalks that were not yet finished. Similar conditions were observed outside Stone Pointe Elementary, with construction crews and equipment visible from entry points and play areas. Inside the buildings, parents reported unfinished spaces, welding activity, and the absence of certain utilities, contributing to a perception of ongoing risk for students and staff.

Additionally, concerns were raised by a number of parents who observed materials and temporary work areas inside the schools, with reports of safety hazards such as cords hanging from ceilings and other construction-related conditions that could affect day-to-day operations. These observations align with inspection findings cited by local authorities, which identified important deficiencies in areas including fire prevention systems, plumbing, heating and cooling, and the ability to shelter occupants in a storm event.

The building superintendent responsible for permits and inspections in the city stated that the Elkhorn School District does not have a certificate of occupancy, a situation that makes occupancy potentially unlawful under city law. City officials emphasized that and noted that occupancy without the certificate violates code provisions, even as the district and a construction partner reported that prior inspections and corrective actions were performed to address safety concerns, aside from landscaping and minor items.

In a joint statement, the district and the construction firm indicated that most required inspections and corrective actions for safe occupancy had been completed, but significant areas remained unfinished. The municipality acknowledged that the campuses are not fully compliant, yet indicated it has limited authority to impose penalties or compel action under current municipal codes. The city also cited exemptions from penalties that otherwise would apply to buildings operating without a certificate of occupancy.

State-level officials expressed concern about the number and severity of code violations observed, warning that the current conditions could pose risks to students. Despite these concerns, city authorities said there is little recourse available under existing laws to compel immediate changes, complicating efforts to enforce compliance while school operations continue.

To manage safety during construction, the Elkhorn School District advised parents that students would use alternate playgrounds and play facilities as playgrounds and kitchen upgrades proceed. Meals will be prepared at another location, and transportation and supervision plans were outlined to maintain safety. The district noted that safety features and inspections for occupancy had been completed, but that large portions of both campuses still require completion before final turnover.

The district has pursued multiple summer construction projects, which contributed to delays and a more complex path to completion. Officials said that timelines for final completion would be confirmed in the coming weeks, and parents were informed about the ongoing work and safety measures designed to protect students during this period of transition.

Parents were contacted in advance to explain the construction conditions and to reassure them that measures were in place to support student safety and well-being throughout the ongoing work. While some safety measures are in place, the ongoing construction and pending occupancy issues remain central to conversations about how the schools will operate as the year progresses.

Key points at a glance

• Two new schools in the Elkhorn School District are under scrutiny for occupancy compliance concerns
• First-day conditions included active construction areas and unfinished interiors
• Officials report serious deficiencies in core systems such as fire protection, plumbing, and climate control
• The city states that occupancy without a certificate of occupancy is not lawful, but enforcement options are limited under current codes
• The district and construction partner say corrective actions were taken and much work remains
• Alternate play areas and off-site meal preparation are in place as construction continues
• Completion dates and final occupancy status are to be announced in the coming weeks

Operational and safety implications

The ongoing construction and incomplete systems have prompted a shift in how students are accommodated, with safety concerns and potential exposure to hazards noted by observers. While district officials emphasize safety measures and ongoing inspections, the absence of a certificate of occupancy highlights a gap between construction completion and legal occupancy. The situation illustrates the tension between expediting new school openings to meet demand and ensuring full compliance with city codes designed to safeguard students.

What comes next

Officials say they will continue with construction while coordinating with city and state authorities to address compliance questions. Updates on final completion timing, occupancy status, and any required steps to obtain a certificate of occupancy are anticipated in the weeks ahead. Parents and families will be kept informed as conditions evolve and additional safety checks are completed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Iron Bluff Elementary and Stone Pointe Elementary compliant with city occupancy rules?

Current information indicates that a certificate of occupancy has not been issued for either campus, and occupancy may not be lawful under city requirements until compliance steps are completed.

What safety concerns have been observed?

Observations include ongoing construction zones, unfinished interiors, welding activity, cords and other potential hazards, and deficiencies identified in fire protection, plumbing, and climate systems.

What has the district stated in response?

The district asserts that the campuses are safe and argues that corrective actions and inspections have been performed as needed for safe occupancy, while acknowledging that some areas remain unfinished.

What actions has the city taken or limited due to code constraints?

City officials indicate occupancy is not lawful without a certificate and that there are limited enforcement options under current municipal codes, though penalties may be exempt in certain circumstances.

What measures are in place for student safety during construction?

Parents were told that alternate play areas and off-site meal preparation would be used, with ongoing safety monitoring and coordination with district and construction partners as work continues.

Key Features of the Current Construction and Occupancy Status

Status indicators for occupancy, safety, and construction progress

Occupancy certificate

Fire systems

Electrical/AC

Interior safety

Play areas/kitchen