Lynwood – An engineering review of Lynwood High School buildings launched after a collapse of exterior soffit ceiling panels in June has yielded preliminary findings that indicate more extensive construction issues may exist at the 22-year-old facility, Lynwood Unified officials announced Monday.

The review, which is still in progress, was launched out of an abundance of caution after the unexpected failure of a section of the exterior panels, called soffits, in one of the high school’s buildings during summer break. LUSD’s Board of Education initiated an independent engineering review by Peter Sarkis-Petra Structural Engineers of all campus structures.

“Lynwood Unified is conducting a thorough and intensive investigation into construction issues at Lynwood High School,” Lynwood Unified Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite said. “Our District places the highest priority on the safety of our students and staff, and we are determined to provide the top-quality facilities our community deserves.”

Board of Education members received an update on the review during a special meeting on Nov. 8.

The section of exterior soffit panels collapsed June 16.

By June 24, the District had launched a joint review with the Division of the State Architect and quickly held an emergency board meeting the same day. In September, an immediate resolution was approved through an emergency board meeting to authorize the removal of the soffits across campus to expedite repairs.

As they have since the June 16 incident, officials will provide regular community updates as information becomes available.

“Lynwood Unified is committed to serving our students and community with integrity, transparency and tenacity,” Board of Education President Gary Hardie, Jr. said. “We are conducting a thorough review of the buildings on this campus as we prioritize the continued safety of our students and staff, with open communications with our community.”

Construction of Lynwood High School began in January 1995. The $98.4 million school partially opened with substantial completion in 1998. Final construction work was completed in July 2000.