Vestavia Hills City Schools

February 25, 2025 — Vestavia Hills High School will welcome students back to campus this morning on a delayed schedule following extensive emergency repairs to the school’s plumbing system. 

The school was closed last Wednesday night due to a significant plumbing failure that rendered approximately 75 percent of campus restrooms unusable for the school community of more than 1,800 individuals (1,600+ students and 180+ staff members). Students and staff continued school through virtual instruction Thursday through Monday.

According to superintendent Todd Freeman and VHHS principal Blair Inabinet, the blockage appears to have resulted from aging plumbing and/or long-term buildup on the 53-year-old campus rather than recent damage or intentional actions. 

Repair efforts began Wednesday evening and involved extensive work including installation of a new sewer line; trenching more than 300 feet from the school’s Senior Patio to behind the campus; sawing through concrete and navigating underground conduit; restoration services including removal of affected carpet, flooring, and drywall; and a thorough sanitation of all impacted areas.

While the primary plumbing issues have been resolved, the school’s Senior Patio courtyard will remain closed for additional surface repairs. Classes will begin at 10:11 a.m. (3rd period) today to allow additional time for final preparations after completion of the emergency infrastructure work.

Principal Inabinet expressed gratitude to the school community in a statement to parents and students: “We are grateful for the flexibility of our faculty and the patience of our families in navigating this unique challenge. Their professionalism and your support have reflected the very best of what makes our VHHS family an incredible one.”

School system restoration partners have implemented procedures for sanitation and remediation to ensure the campus is safe for all students and staff upon their return.