DYER BROOK, Maine — Students at Southern Aroostook Community school will spend the week in a remote learning setting following a tractor fire at the school March 3.
RSU 50 Superintendent Jon Porter informed parents of the move in an email sent on Friday, March 5.
The school needed to be free of students to allow a cleaning service to come into the building to remove any soot or smoke damage resulting from the fire, the letter said.
“During this time, our air exchange and ventilation systems are being serviced and cleaned,” Porter said. “To clean these completely, the systems will need to be powered down. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, it is recommended by the Maine CDC that our air exchange be working in public areas to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19.”
Remote learning began for grades 6-12 Monday, March 8. Any students enrolled in classes at the Region Two School of Applied Technology in Houlton will be required to attend those classes in person, Porter added.
Students needing transportation to SACS to meet the bus going to the Houlton CTE school should call 207-757-8206 to make arrangements.
In addition, any students needing to pick up devices or materials needed for the week of remote learning is asked to call the school.
For grades pre-kindergarten to grade 5, remote learning begins Tuesday, March 9. This will allow staff the opportunity to get devices to elementary students.The pick up for elementary devices and materials will be on Monday, March 8, between 1 and 5 p.m. The devices for elementary students will be in the elementary entrance. If you are unable to pick up devices, contact the school at 207-757-8206.
During the week of remote learning, food will be distributed to students starting Tuesday, March 9. “Everyone that received meals the week of Dec. 1 will also get them this week,” Porter said. “If you were not on the list, and now want food delivered, please contact the school. Food delivery will be Tuesday-Friday. Please remember to leave coolers out for food and materials.”
The fire, which was contained to the school’s garage area, started when a tractor erupted into flames in the early morning hours of March 3. Damage could be as high as $100,000 to the school.
“We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we navigate this unique situation,” Porter said.
