School districts cancel in-person learning due to water issues

Officials cite low water pressure as cause for closure across Bourbon Co.

BOURBON COUNTY, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — Schools in Bourbon County were closed for in-person learning Wednesday, but not because of severe weather.

Heavy rainfall, historic flooding, and multiple snowstorms have led to several school closures in recent months. However, this latest cancellation stemmed from widespread water pressure issues across Paris.

“Pretty much across the city, we had some widespread low water pressure issues,” said Paris City Schools Superintendent Stephen McCauley.

Paris City Schools canceled classes early Wednesday morning, while Bourbon County Schools announced an NTI day. Officials say the decision came after the city notified them of the ongoing water issues.

“It’s frustrating to be honest,” McCauley said. “You’ve got a beautiful, one of the nicest days we’ve had in months, and it would be nice to be in school to see our kids. But it’s just one of those things that happened,” said McCauley.

Business owners in Paris also reported receiving alerts from the city, as those in the area were placed under a boil water advisory. McCauley noted that canceling school due to water issues is highly unusual.

“Very rare, I actually can’t recall the last time,” said McCauley, “It’s normally a weather or maybe a heat issue, or buses or staffing or something along that line. I can’t recall the last time water has been an issue,” he said.

City officials said an unexpected problem with the water distribution system caused the pressure issues, but crews worked to restore service earlier in the day.

Schools are expected to resume classes Thursday as the situation improves. The city remains under a boil water advisory as a precaution.