On December 17, a fire broke out early in the B-A middle school wrestling and locker room. Former student Elias Alley was later charged with arson and had his bail set at $1 million.
The fire closed the middle and high school buildings until winter break. The school ran off flexible instructional days during that time.
Students were able to return as anticipated following the holiday break on January 2. The middle school locker room and gymnasium have remained closed as of this time, but the school is currently operating at full capacity otherwise.
“We are completing the necessary cleaning and gutting of all impacted areas,” superintendent Edward DiSabato said. “The gym area is getting a full scrub and a full floor refinish.”
The Bellwood-Antis school district is hoping to reopen the middle school gym January 27. At that time, P.E. classes and sport practices will resume at their respected locations.
B-A is still working alongside insurance evaluators to estimate the total cost of the damages. These estimates may not be available for a while.
Renovations to the impacted areas are likely to occur in the foreseeable future.
