Oneida High School Remains Closed Due to Severe Flooding

News Summary

Oneida High School has announced its closure for the entire school year following severe flooding that caused extensive damage. The storm resulted in significant electrical and mechanical failures, prompting the district to seek alternative education spaces for students. With affected classrooms and facilities, the community has rallied support, including a donation aimed at repair costs. The district is focused on ensuring safety and effective learning amidst ongoing challenges.

Oneida, NY – Oneida High School will remain closed for the entirety of the 2025-26 school year due to extensive damage caused by severe flooding that occurred on June 22. The decision comes after the storm left the institution with significant electrical and mechanical failures, endangering the safety of students and staff.

The flooding resulted in three to four feet of water in the school’s basement, which housed critical equipment such as boilers, electrical apparatus, transformers, and sewage pumps. The onslaught of water also breached the first floor, leading to mud and flooding in hallways and classrooms, and affecting around 15 different rooms, including classrooms, special education facilities, and art rooms. The gymnasium has since been repurposed into a storage area for salvaged furniture and other items impacted by the flood.

In light of the situation, the school district is actively seeking alternative educational spaces for the students. This initiative involves collaboration with neighboring districts, BOCES, and other partners to ensure continuity in learning during the closure. The district is committed to providing regular updates to families and staff regarding the extent of repairs and the future educational plans.

As the situation unfolds, the postponement of Regents Exams has impacted students’ academic schedules. The floodwaters disrupted the final five days of the previous school year, exacerbating the uncertainty surrounding the students’ education.

Repairing the damage is expected to be both extensive and time-consuming, as indicated by a school business official. The district is aware of the community’s need for clear communication and will continue to offer detailed information as it becomes available. Community support has begun to mobilize, exemplified by a donation of $1,500 from Artani’s Pizza aimed at assisting with the costs associated with the damage.

The superintendent of the district has acknowledged the frustrations and challenges posed by the closure, emphasizing the importance of keeping the community united and resilient during this difficult time. The focus is now on ensuring that students can continue their education effectively, with safety and support at the forefront of the district’s efforts.

The circumstances surrounding the flooding at Oneida High School have brought the community together, highlighting resilience amid adversity. The school district is hopeful for a positive outcome as the necessary repairs and adjustments are planned in the coming months.

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HERE Resources

Oneida High School Closes for Entire Academic Year

Additional Resources

• WKTV: Oneida High School Closure Announcement
• CNY Central: Oneida High School Flood Update
• UticaOD: Flood Damage Forces Oneida High School Closure
• Syracuse.com: Oneida High School Not Opening
• Rome Sentinel: Superintendent on Oneida High School Closure
• Wikipedia: Flood
• Google Search: Oneida High School
• Google Scholar: Oneida High School flood
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
• Google News: Oneida High School closure