John Jenkins Elementary School was twice evacuated before it’s official opening August 26.
- Prince William County Building Official Eric Mays forced out teachers and students inside the building for a new student orientation on August 23, and a new teacher orientation August 24.
- A sprinkler system inside the newly-built school was not certified as working properly, county government officials said.
- Mays issued a full occupancy permit for the building the afternoon on August 24.
The school opened August 26 without issue, and classes continue interrupted.
Today, Prince William County Commonwealth Attorney Paul Ebert tossed out a criminal complaint filed by the county Development Services Director Wade Hugh.
- Hugh alleged the county school division knowingly put children and adults in harm’s way for letting them inside before a full occupancy permit was issued.
- Hugh chose not to release the document to the public.
“At no time was anyone in actual danger,” Ebert penned in a written opinion. “It also appears no one individual is directly and criminally responsible (in this instance) for violating the applicable building code provisions.”
- Ebert commended the building inspectors for their commitment to the safety of the community, students, and staff members of the school.
The school division did receive a “stocking” permit, which allowed teachers inside the building to set up their classrooms, and then leave.
- The school division cited receiving that permit and then blamed having students and staff inside the building before the full occupancy permit was issued on a communications breakdown.
The school is named for John D. Jenkins, the longest-serving member of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors.
- He died in February.
- It’s located at 4060 Prince William Parkway in Woodbridge.
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