Crews evaluate flood damage inside De Pere High School, July 9, 2026. PC: Fox 11 Online
DE PERE, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Repairs to De Pere High School after recent water damage in the building has cost more than $275,000 so far, according to the district.
Superintendent Andy Bradford says the flood at De Pere high school was caused by small fails in the building’s nearly 50-year-old roof drain system. More than 50 spaces were impacted.
“A tiny little hairline crack turned into something really big because of the pressure that pipe was having to accommodate or try to accommodate,” said Bradford.
On July 8, heavy rainfall blanketed the area, causing street flooding around the school.
The district’s business manager, Dawn Foeller, said her understanding is the insurance will cover much of the damage. However, she said the district still has a $100,000 deductible.
In a report for Monday’s school board prepared by Supt. Andy Bradford, $278,493.40 in bills so far are listed.
The three most expensive items:
- Clean up and restoration completed by Contract Construction Services and Servpro $107,525.83
- Structural Repairs – Pipe lining $78,000
- Estimate for flooring replacement in band, three classrooms, LMC and adjoining conference room, office, and storage areas $75,325
The district says it isn’t concerned about mold or mildew.
“The majority of the surfaces that we need to worry about are in the dumpster already. You know, the demo started on Monday, so until we get all that carpeting out, that is really our concern, and we have a plan for that,” said Noah Wentland, Director of Buildings & Grounds.
Superintendent Bradford says he anticipates the classrooms to be ready for the first day of school. However, he added the library could use some extra time, saying it might reopen after the school year starts.
“There’s a, you know, considerable amount of furniture that we need to move around in order to do the carpet replacement. And they have to work around the circulation desk. And we have all of the books boxed up right now and on pallets,” said Bradford.
The districts tested its roof draining system after repair work was completed. They put 3000 gallons of water on the roof. Afterwards, zero leaks were found.
Bradford added things could have been much worse.
Comments