KY school district postpones opening due to structural problems at high school

The first day of school at Lincoln County Schools will be delayed until Sept. 8 due to conditions discovered during a $3.8 million renovation project at Lincoln County High School.

The decision comes after construction crews encountered unexpected structural issues that require immediate attention to ensure the safety of students and staff, officials said.

“This summer, we have been renovating the high school,’ District Director of Operations Brad Smith told the Herald-Leader Friday.

“We have a few areas of the slab floor that had settled over the years that were part of the renovation. The initial plan to lift them back up with using a slab jacking method, this has not lifted them as much as anticipated. So we are going to have to do some more exploration and work in those areas to properly address them. Hence the decision to need more time before opening school.”

“We understand the inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the patience and support of our families and community as we work diligently to resolve these issues,” added Bruce Smith, superintendent of Lincoln County Schools.

“We are very excited about the improvements being made for our students and staff and look forward to completing the project as soon as possible.”

The school is also receiving a new intercom system and a gym renovation. The project was made possible due to funding received from the General Assembly to be used for upgrades, renovations and enhancements to district facilities.

The first day of school was originally scheduled for Aug. 25.

This story was originally published August 1, 2025 at 11:08 AM.