New Carlisle Elementary resumes classes after roof fire

New Carlisle Elementary resumed classes on a partial basis Sept. 28, after a roof fire closed the school. Grades 2–4 returned to the cleaned and inspected north part of the building, while fifth graders attended classes at Medway Elementary.

Fifth graders were dropped off at New Carlisle Elementary and transported by bus to Medway, according to WHIO’s report on the return plan. The grade-specific arrangement meant students resumed in-person classes at two locations.

In a Sept. 27 notice, Tecumseh Local Schools said the front portion of New Carlisle Elementary remained closed. The district also set temporary arrival and dismissal procedures and moved its temporary office to the west side of the school. The notice described arrangements for the Sept. 28 start.

Repairs expected to take weeks

The fire occurred Sept. 16. WHIO reported that the fifth-grade hallway was the most damaged area, attributing that information to the superintendent. The superintendent estimated repairs would take approximately four to six weeks. That estimate was not a confirmed date for the building to reopen.

WHIO also reported that repairs could cost around $1 million or more. That figure was reported as an estimate, not a final cost. The district’s Sept. 28 plan allowed grades 2–4 to use the school’s north section while fifth graders attended Medway Elementary.