WEST NEWBURY — Superintendent Justin Bartholomew and Principal Brenda Erhardt report that cleanup efforts are underway following a small fire on the stage of the Pentucket Regional Middle High School auditorium on Saturday afternoon.
Thanks to the swift and coordinated response of Pentucket’s robotics team, which was working on a project in a nearby classroom, the fire was quickly contained. Upon detecting the smell of smoke, the students and faculty members located the fire and used fire extinguishers to control the flames before first responders arrived. Their prompt action likely prevented extensive damage to the school.
“We are incredibly grateful to our robotics team and their mentors for their quick thinking and bravery,” said Principal Erhardt. “Their dedication to safety and preparedness truly paid off in a critical moment.”
No injuries were reported. However, the fire left smoke damage in the auditorium and nearby cafeteria. Cleanup crews and remediation specialists began work on Saturday evening and continued efforts throughout Sunday to remove smoke odor and residue.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire originated in a trash barrel used to dispose of sawdust from stage work earlier in the day. The sawdust may have smoldered for some time before igniting.
Health and safety inspections are required before the school can resume normal operations. As of Sunday afternoon, additional cleanup and inspections are still needed.
To ensure the safety of all students and staff, Pentucket Regional Middle High School will be closed on Monday, January 27, 2025, and Tuesday, January 28, 2025. Elementary schools will operate as scheduled. Families will receive an update on Monday regarding the status of reopening. School officials are optimistic that normal operations can resume soon, and plans for a potential make-up day will be shared with the community.
Pentucket Regional School District would like to express its heartfelt thanks to the first responders who assisted on Saturday, including the West Newbury Police and Fire Departments and the fire departments of Groveland, Newbury, Georgetown, and Merrimac.
“We deeply appreciate the professionalism and dedication of our local first responders and their unwavering commitment to keeping our community safe,” said Superintendent Bartholomew.
The district will continue to keep families and the community informed as cleanup progresses. Thank you for your understanding and support during this time.
