Students said they first noticed the discoloration Monday, after returning from fall break. The district attributed the problem to valve issues and said affected heating, ventilation and air-conditioning units have been repaired. It did not provide details about water testing or when in-person classes would resume.

The change followed disruptions to restroom access and drinking water on campus. Students said only a few bathrooms were open, creating long waits, and they could not reliably refill water bottles at school.

Senior Nik Blosfeld said students should be able to count on safe water and functioning facilities. Families also described recurring building problems, including air conditioning that they said had not worked throughout the school.

Parent Erika Harris called safe drinking water and usable bathrooms basic necessities for students. Anne Reich said three days of the problem was unacceptable and urged the district and school board to address families’ concerns. Families want water tests completed before students and staff return to campus.

The district also addressed concerns about a substance found in portable classrooms. It said the material was not mold, but that it would conduct air-quality testing as a precaution.