Edinburg CISD relocates remaining Canterbury students amid E. Coli clean-up efforts

EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After plenty of backlash from parents, Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District has decided to relocation the remaining students at Canterbury Elementary School to the Edinburg Recreation Center for the remainder of the year.

This comes just days after the district announced that E. Coli was found within the floorboards of Canterbury Elementary School.

"Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the continued safety and comfort of our students, the remaining kindergarten through fifth-grade classes at Canterbury Elementary will be temporarily relocated to the City of Edinburg Recreation Center beginning Monday, May 5, 2025, for the remainder of the school year," the district stated.

Edinburg CISD stated that the decision to relocate the remainder of the students off campus supports the next phase of an ongoing restoration effort for the campus.

"All current areas in use at Canterbury Elementary have met public health standards, and results confirmed no immediate threat to students or staff," the district stated. "However, this relocation will provide our families with additional peace of mind and ensure that restoration crews can complete repairs swiftly and without classroom disruption."

On Monday, what was supposed to be a press conference to discuss the district's plans after finding E. Coli on campus, due to drainage/sewage issues that appeared as a result of the March 26 flood waters, turned into an upheaval of questions from concerned parents who were disappointed with the district's transparency.

“Our highest priority has always been the health, safety, and well-being of our students,” said Dr. Mario H. Salinas, Edinburg CISD Superintendent of Schools. This temporary relocation allows us to accelerate the restoration process while continuing to provide a stable, high-quality learning environment. We appreciate the continued support and understanding of our Canterbury families.”

The relocation affects only the final set of classrooms still operating from the Canterbury campus.

On Monday, it was announced that Pre-K students were to be relocated to Freddy Gonzalez Elementary as part of earlier response measures to the issue.

Students are to be dropped off and picked up at the Recreation Center at regular school hours.

For students relocated to Freddy Gonzalez Elementary, ECISD will continue shuttle service from Freddy Gonzalez Elementary, departing at 7:30 a.m. and returning at 2:45 p.m., for families with children attending both campuses.

After school program activities will continue at the Recreation Center as scheduled, according to the district.

Questions regarding the relocation of students can be addressed at (956) 381-5631.