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High School Gym Floor

Moisture Causes Damage

In the summer of 2009, a section of flooring was removed near the exterior doors of the east gym at Waverly High School. This was done to investigate possible moisture entering the gym from under the southeast door threshold. Test results showed moisture levels at that location were normal in the wood floor and surface below. At that time however, there were two significant “bubbles” on the gym floor. We decided to temporarily fix those areas and continue to monitor the situation – allowing us to use the east gym for volleyball season.

At the end of October, the “bubbles” on the floor have become more significant. The problem seems to be the result of moisture under the surface, causing the floor to expand.
There are many unknowns at this time. Two specific questions must be answered first:
    Where is moisture coming from? How do we keep moisture from entering the gym area in the future?

In the month of November, we have had architects, engineers, flooring specialists, insurance representatives and many others visit the gym. Our first priority is to resolve these two questions (referenced above) before actions are taken to repair the floor. Until the source of damage is determined, we will not know if our district insurance policy will cover the costs to repair the floor.

We do know:
1. The sub-floor of the main gym has significant amounts of moisture causing the floor to expand.
2. The gym floor is not currently conducive for competitive activities – a.k.a. athletic practices and games.
3. The only way to find a solution is to remove sections of the floor to continue investigating.
4. We will not have access to use the main gym for most activities for several weeks – or longer, depending on how the situation unfolds.

We appreciate the patience and cooperation of students, staff, parents and patrons as we work to resolve the problem. This is an unfortunate situation that could not have been foreseen or prevented. We will thoroughly consider all possible alternatives before determining our course of action. The most appropriate long term solution will likely create short-term inconvenience.

Fortunately, our district facilities provide sufficient space for winter activities. This is the plan as we move forward with Physical Education Classes, Basketball Practices, and Competitions originally scheduled for the East Gym. Our plan will be fluid as we await the determination of the Gym Floor. Note this is subject to change as specific situations dictate:

High School Strength Classes have not been affected. The West Gym will be utilized for Lifetime Sports and Fitness. The head basketball coaches develop practice schedules each year. The basketball coaches met with their athletes and collectively devised a new practice plan when notified the East Gym was unavailable.

The boys and girls will alternate practice time in the HS West Gym, some mornings the boys will practice before school, allowing the girls to use the gym after school. Some practices will be held at WIS or Eagle Elementary periodically as needed.

All competitions and events originally scheduled at Waverly High School for the month of December will be moved from the East Gym to the West Gym with the following exceptions:
1. Friday, December 4 vs. Lincoln Pius will be held at Lincoln Southeast High School.
2. Varsity Boys’ Basketball games will be played at Waverly Middle School.
3. Varsity Girls’ Basketball Games are in the West Gym.
Game Times remain the same.

Scheduling changes for January and February are being evaluated, and are dependent upon the condition of the High School East Gym. There are a few basketball games during the season (including Dec. 4) that will need to be moved off-site because of crowd expectancy. This is for safety purposes and capacity limits of the gyms in the district. Future updates will be provided as information becomes available. We appreciate your patience and continued support.