MOSES LAKE — Crews continue to work through a long list of structural and safety issues at Groff Elementary. District officials say the project remains on schedule for a fall 2026 reopening.

“We are on schedule to open Groff Elementary for the 2026-27 school year,” Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon said.

Shannon said exterior insulation work is underway to improve the building’s long-term performance.

New insulation is being added to sections of the exterior wall, which will later be finished with metal siding.

“The improvements are to increase the thermal protection of the building and help with the overall integrity of the facility,” Shannon said.

Inside the school, crews have corrected several stairways that were found to be uneven.

Shannon said the steps were leveled and fitted with new center railings, which not only addresses safety concerns but also improves accessibility and traffic flow.

Classrooms are also being restored after months of demolition and remediation.

Shannon said several rooms are now being “buttoned up and finished,” with crews preparing them for use next school year.

Work continues on electrical and HVAC systems, areas previously identified as major deficiencies.

Earlier district updates noted that multiple heat pump units had to be replaced after contractors discovered they were not installed to the manufacturer’s specifications.

One of the most visible projects is the complete replacement of the gym floor. The entire surface had to be removed due to structural issues beneath it.

Shannon confirmed that while the floor could not be salvaged, the district saved the center court Gator logo, which will be repurposed in the new gym.

“There are some cool ideas being discussed with the PTO about how to display it,” Shannon said.

Shannon also addressed recent roof‑related work that required a large crane on site.

Crews focused on correcting improper installation details that affected drainage, safety and long-term durability. They also improved access to rooftop equipment and sealed roof and wall penetrations to prevent water intrusion.

The crane work is now complete, though Shannon said he could not confirm whether all remaining roof tasks are finished.

Shannon said while the district is committed to keeping the community informed, some information cannot be shared because the project remains part of active litigation involving the school’s original construction.

“We need the community to understand that this work is part of an active legal process, and some of the details are limited,” he said. “The district will continue providing updates as we’re able, but we can’t put that litigation in jeopardy.”

    A look at one of the classrooms inside Groff Elementary, which is receiving final touches.
  

    Stairs at Groff Elementary have been leveled and received new center railings, which address safety concerns and improve traffic flow.