ROCKWALL, TX (Feb. 23, 2023) During the first week students returned from winter break this January, Amy Parks-Heath Elementary School in Rockwall ISD faced an unexpected challenge that could have forced the school to cancel classes: a major water main break beneath the concrete outside the campus.
Rockwall ISD Irrigation Technician Bentley Burrus first spotted water pooling near the school building just before school let out, called Master Plumber Nick Smith, and immediately began investigating. What they found was a ruptured water main that, if left unfixed, would have shut down water access for the entire school, ultimately cancelling classes the next day. Instead of allowing the issue to derail learning, the district’s maintenance team jumped into action, led by Burrus, Smith, and Assistant Director Josh Otero, and maintenance staff member Christian Padilla.
Working in partnership with American Mechanical Services, the crew spent the entire night on site—from 3 p.m. until 5 a.m. the next morning, including a shift change—digging, repairing, and restoring full water service before students arrived on campus. To protect the nearby school garden, team members even dug the area by hand, ensuring no damage was done to the space that the students and teachers value.
Their dedication paid off: by morning, the repair was complete, water was fully restored, and school proceeded without interruption.
Rockwall ISD extends its sincere thanks to the maintenance team for going above and beyond expectations—working long, cold hours, putting students first, and ensuring the learning environment remained safe and fully functional.
Their efforts are a powerful reminder of the behind-the-scenes heroes who keep schools running every day.
Submitted press release and photos by Luci Mouton, Communications Coordinator, Rockwall ISD.
Maintenance Crew Works Through the Night to Keep Rockwall ISD Elementary Open After Water Main Break added by Editor on
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