Half of West Fargo High School roof will be replaced this summer

The rhythmic clang of construction is a familiar sound in growing communities, and this summer, West Fargo High School will be the site of a significant project aimed at addressing decades of wear and tear. A little more than half of the school’s roof—roughly 97,000 square feet—will be replaced as part of a larger plan for renovations and additions, a move prompted by increasingly frequent leaks that are impacting operations. The West Fargo School Board recently authorized administrators to begin soliciting bids for the re-roofing project, signaling the start of a multi-year effort to modernize the school and ensure a safe, reliable learning environment for students. West Fargo Public Schools serves a diverse student population, and maintaining facilities like West Fargo High School is crucial to supporting the educational aspirations of every child.

What Happened

The decision to replace a significant portion of the roof stems from a growing need to address aging infrastructure at West Fargo High School. According to Jeff Goebel, building and grounds director for the district, the increasing frequency of leaks has become a priority, especially when compared to other facility needs which are generally well-maintained. While the district allocates funds annually for repairs, Goebel emphasized that patching leaks with rubber membranes is a recurring expense that doesn't address the underlying issue. The cost of the roof replacement project remains to be finalized, pending the acceptance of bids, but it represents the first phase of a broader strategy for improvements at the high school. Fargo Downtown Association has long championed investment in public infrastructure as vital to community vitality.

The project isn't an isolated event; it's part of a larger, phased plan for West Fargo High School. Future projects slated for 2027 include the addition of a multi-purpose room, renovations to single-stall restrooms, and the installation of more security doors. The district’s goal is to bundle these projects into a single summer construction window, minimizing disruption to the school year. Summer school students will temporarily relocate to Sheyenne High School during the construction period, which is scheduled from June 1 to August 20—a total of 58 working days before the start of the 2027-2028 school year.

Architects designed the roofing project and staff spoke with several roofing contractors and considered how the recent Fargo South High School roof project went. A key consideration in the planning process was minimizing disruption, with contractors employing techniques that allow them to tear out and replace sections of the roof daily. This approach ensures that areas are not exposed for extended periods. The West Fargo High School building, encompassing 273,000 square feet with 171,000 square feet of roofing divided into 36 sections, originally opened in 1986 and underwent a significant expansion in 1991. While many sections predate 2000, Goebel noted that the current plan aims to replace those older areas, recognizing that a complete re-roofing is rarely feasible.

Roofing companies tear out a small area of roof and put it back within the same day, so nothing is exposed for a significant amount of time. The school’s roof is made of ballisted rubber, which includes rocks that have to be shoveled out of the way to find leaks — creating a risk of causing more leaks in the process. Goebel said they are trying to get everything to fully adhered rubber roofs, so you could just walk up and see the rubber and see the hole.

West Fargo High is the second-oldest high school in West Fargo, after the Lodoen Community Center, which now houses the district's alternative high school and other programs, as well as the West Fargo Public Library. Leaks at West Fargo High School have been identified, though not all of them come from the roof; some, like a recent leak in the gymnasium, are caused by piping issues. While the roof is due for repair, Goebel said it's not unsafe. The district could continue patching leaks using rubber membrane, but that's a substantial expense each year that doesn't solve the overall problem.

Community Reaction

While the school board’s decision has been met with general approval, the project highlights a common challenge faced by growing communities: the need to continually invest in infrastructure. Some residents are concerned about the financial impact on the district and how it will be funded, while others are relieved that the issue is being addressed. Goebel emphasized that the lifetime of a roof depends on its material.

Key Dates

The timeline for the project is structured to minimize disruption to the school year. Here’s a breakdown of key dates:

Dates

• June 1 - August 20, 2027: Construction Period
• 2027-2028 School Year: Summer school students will attend Sheyenne High School during construction.

The district is committed to keeping the community informed throughout the process, and further details regarding timelines and potential disruptions will be released as the project progresses. Families can stay updated through the West Fargo Public Schools and official communication channels.

What's Next

The immediate next step involves soliciting bids from qualified roofing contractors. Once a bid is accepted, the project will move forward, with construction scheduled to begin in June 2027. Beyond the roof replacement, residents can anticipate further improvements to West Fargo High School in the years ahead, including the addition of a multi-purpose room, restroom renovations, and enhanced security measures. These projects reflect the district’s commitment to providing a modern and safe learning environment for students. The school's age—second only to the Lodoen Community Center—underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and upgrades to ensure its longevity. The West Fargo Public Library, also housed within the Lodoen Community Center, provides vital resources to the entire community. The West Fargo Public Library offers a wide range of programs and services for all ages.

Jackson's Take

Seeing a school district proactively address aging infrastructure like this at West Fargo High School is encouraging. It signals a commitment to the future, recognizing that a solid foundation—both literally and figuratively—is essential for the success of our children. While the construction will undoubtedly cause some temporary inconvenience, the long-term benefits of a modern, well-maintained facility far outweigh the short-term disruption. It's a reminder that investing in our schools isn't just about bricks and mortar; it's about investing in the future of our community—in the lives of the young people who will shape it. The fact that they are prioritizing security upgrades alongside the roof replacement speaks volumes about the concerns facing schools today and the district’s resolve to meet those challenges head-on. As these projects progress, it’s crucial for residents to remain engaged, offering feedback and support to ensure the best possible outcomes for our students.

The focus on adhering to a fully adhered rubber roof is a smart move, simplifying future maintenance and reducing the risk of further damage. It’s a testament to the district’s commitment to long-term solutions rather than quick fixes. The decision to relocate summer school students to Sheyenne High School demonstrates a thoughtful approach to minimizing disruption. Ultimately, these investments in West Fargo High School are a reflection of the values we hold as a community—a belief in the importance of education and a commitment to providing our children with the resources they need to thrive. Strong schools are the bedrock of strong communities, and this project is a vital step in ensuring that West Fargo continues to be a place where families want to live, work, and raise their children.

Closing paragraph: The re-roofing of West Fargo High School represents more than just a construction project; it's a symbol of the community's commitment to its future. As the work progresses, residents can look forward to a modernized learning environment for generations to come, a tangible reminder of the value we place on education and the enduring strength of our community.