WEST NEWBURY – Pentucket Regional Middle High School reopened for classes on Wednesday, Jan. 29, as remediation following a weekend fire continued.
The kitchen area and other impacted areas have been cleared for student and staff use. Walls, floors, and flat surfaces have been cleaned, and all air filters and fire extinguishers have been replaced. The robotics and shop area were also shortly re-opened.
The auditorium sustained smoke damage and was sealed off pending appropriate remediation.
The fire, deemed accidental, originated at the rear of the auditorium. Members of the Robotics team, a Pentucket staff member, and a West Newbury police officer quickly extinguished the flames. No one was injured.
The administration is also developing a schedule to make up the two missed class days.
“All things considered, this could have been much worse,” Superintendent Bartholomew said. “Thank you to our staff members who made sure our students can return to classes as quickly as possible. We also thank our community for its support and patience as we navigate the next few days and weeks.” ♦
