UPDATED: Harwood Elementary closes, students sent home, after sewer backup

HARWOOD, N.D. - Classes at Harwood Elementary was dismissed shortly after 9 this morning due to sewer backup in the school, according to Principal Jerry Barnum.

The combination of a strong sewer smell and the fact that the school can't use running water or flush toilets prompted the sudden closure, Barnum said.

Assistant Superintendent Louise Dardis said parents were notified by email and phone. Dardis said she was impressed with how quickly parents responded to pick up children from the school.

The backup occurred in a utilities room.

There are 105 children enrolled at the school.