August 23, 2023

We wanted to let you know about an emergency situation that took place outside of Newell after school. 

At 5:30 p.m., we were alerted of a smoking fire on the playground area of Newell Elementary.  The Grand Island Police Department and Grand Island Fire Department arrived on the scene quickly and resolved the situation within minutes. Being as this was after school hours and no one was on the scene, all staff and students remained safe.

The playground has experienced extensive damage.

There is no damage to the school.

GIPD and GIFD have confirmed the building is still fit for indoor school activities.  We will still have school tomorrow (8/24). 

The investigation of the source of the fire is still ongoing by the GIPD and GIFD.

We want to thank the GIPD & GIFD for their continued commitment to the community.  We are grateful for their service and dedication to student and staff safety.

We understand this can be a frightening thing.  It will certainly bring about a little bit of change to our routine for recess and potentially lunch times.  We want all of our Newell families and students to know that we will be taking extra measures to ensure all students feel safe, listened to, and happy about learning.

If you have any questions regarding school and safety precautions, please reach out to the school district’s central offices at (308) 385-5900 or send a message through Let's Talk.

#WeAreGIPS