Leander Schools Closed Due to Gas Line Repairs
LEANDER, Texas – In an effort to keep students safe, the Leander Independent School District (LISD) has announced the closure of eight of its campuses for today, October 21. This decision comes as a result of ongoing repairs on a gas line along FM 620, which have caused significant disruptions in the area.
Gas Line Accident Causes Concerns
It all started on Friday, October 18, when a construction crew accidentally damaged an eight-inch gas line at the intersection of FM 620 and Ranch Road 2222. Since that incident, crews from the Texas Gas Service have been hustling to fix the line, but this has resulted in multiple road closures. According to the latest updates from Lake Travis Fire Rescue, while both directions of FM 620 are anticipated to reopen late Sunday night, the bypass at 2222 is expected to remain closed for some time.
Impact on Local Schools
Given the ongoing situation and traffic challenges, LISD made the hard decision to close schools within the Vandegrift High School feeder pattern for Monday. This includes several local campuses: Grandview Hills Elementary, Laura W. Bush Elementary, River Place Elementary, River Ridge Elementary, Steiner Ranch Elementary, Canyon Ridge Middle School, Four Points Middle School, and Vandegrift High School.
The decision also affects students who may attend other schools or programs in the district but live in the impacted area. Unfortunately, there will be no bus transportation available from the Vandegrift feeder area, meaning that families may need to make alternative arrangements. LISD understands that some might not be able to do so, and students’ absences will be excused accordingly.
Extracurricular Activities on Hold
Notably, the school closures mean there will be no extracurricular activities or practices held before school today. However, the district plans to keep parents and staff informed and anticipates making an announcement by 10 a.m. on Monday regarding the status of any after-school activities. Fingers crossed for some happy news!
Safety is the Priority
In a letter addressing families in the Vandegrift HS feeder area, LISD underscored that the safety and well-being of all students and staff is their utmost priority. The district expressed its gratitude for families’ understanding during this inconvenient situation and reassured everyone that they are closely monitoring conditions as they develop.
The district emphasized the potential further delays and disruptions that would naturally arise from school operations contributing to the already complicated traffic scenario. This includes bus transportation challenges as well as the time students and staff would spend in traffic, which could lessen valuable instructional hours within the school day.
Looking Ahead
LISD is committed to keeping lines of communication open and will provide additional updates as necessary. As we all navigate this unexpected situation together, local families are encouraged to stay tuned for the latest information and remain flexible with arrangements. The inconvenience is regrettable, but the safety of our young learners is what truly matters right now.
In the meantime, community members can join together in sending thoughts and support to the hardworking repair crews who are diligently repairing the gas line and reshaping the roads back to normal.
