Fire at New Carlisle Elementary prompts new arrival and exit rules for classrooms

Tecumseh local schools have announced new temporary arrival and exit procedures for New Carlisle Elementary after a roof fire on Wednesday, September 16.

While the school remains open and classrooms continue to operate, crews are still addressing building damage, and the front portion of the structure remains closed.

In response, district officials have implemented updated traffic and safety protocols to protect students, families, and staff.

Under new procedures, the regular parking lot is off-limits to everyone except those participating in Latchkey pickup.

District officials noted that the turnaround area is small and compact, warning that stopping or parking can quickly create traffic backups and safety concerns.

The district said in a release: “The turnaround area is small and compact, and stopping or parking can quickly create traffic backups and safety concerns. Your patience and cooperation will be essential as we all adjust to these temporary procedures.”

Those who need to use the lobby are advised to go to the western part of the building because the lobby has temporarily moved. Students from kindergarten to grade five who walk to school are required to gather at the bike rack located in the front of the building.

In order to ensure the safety of the students, the district is asking both the students and the parents not to move around the building or enter areas where the buses are picking up and dropping off students. There will always be staff members who will accompany the students at all times in the morning.

For dismissal, it is advised that parents take the blue route on the map provided by the district. Students will be called from their classrooms, then exit the building from the sidewalk side. The parent pick-up and Latchkey vehicles will also take the same route.

The district is still taking care of the building damage without interrupting classroom activities.