Teacher Emily McDougall holds music classes on the auditorium stage at Thoreau this year after a spring fire required several building adjustments. (Photo Courtesy Concord Public Schools)
CONCORD — Superintendent Dr. Laurie Hunter and Thoreau Elementary School Principal Justin Sparks are pleased to share that students and staff have enjoyed a smooth, successful start to the school year after extensive planning and adjustments following a fire last spring.
The April 27 fire affected eight classrooms in the school’s 1994 wing. Although the school’s fire suppression system prevented the fire from spreading, water damaged walls, ceiling tiles, electrical fixtures, flooring, cabinetry and personal belongings.
Thoreau closed for one day following the fire. During that time, faculty and staff developed a plan, moved supplies and relocated approximately 10 classrooms. The school reopened the following morning.
That same spirit of cooperation continued throughout the summer as school leaders, teachers and staff prepared for the new year while repairs remained underway.
“We opened on time, and the first weeks of school have been so smooth that you might never know how much work went into making this possible,” Principal Sparks said. “Our staff approached every challenge with creativity and a commitment to our students. They have made full use of every available space while keeping the focus where it belongs — on teaching, learning and helping children feel at home.”
The temporary arrangements affect classrooms and specialized programs across the school. One second-grade class is using the music room, while the music teacher holds classes on the auditorium stage. Another second-grade class is meeting in a modular classroom.
The school also relocated two classrooms serving students with complex disabilities, including students who use wheelchairs. One now occupies the former teachers’ lounge, while another is using the former Spanish classroom.
“This has not been easy for our staff, and I think it’s important to acknowledge that,” Principal Sparks said. “There have been moments when we’ve needed to lean on one another, and there will continue to be moments when we need each other’s support. But that’s what we do at Thoreau. Our staff has shown incredible resilience, flexibility and a willingness to collaborate and do whatever it takes for our students. We don’t always have all the answers, but we come together, we support one another, and we keep moving forward. That is what makes this staff so incredibly powerful.”
Spanish and art teachers elected to continue teaching from mobile carts, bringing their materials directly into general education classrooms. Staff considered students’ and teachers’ needs when developing each temporary arrangement.
“We asked our staff what would work best for them and their students within the space available,” Principal Sparks said. “They were flexible, honest and solutions-focused. Every decision came back to what would provide students with the most consistent and supportive experience possible.”
Repairs to the affected wing include the installation of a new dry-pipe fire suppression system and the reconstruction of damaged areas. The District expects to complete the work around November or December, though the timeline depends on construction progress.
Thoreau families have also supported the school throughout its recovery. Following the fire, parents delivered meals, coffee, treats and gifts for affected teachers. They have continued to offer help and show patience as temporary arrangements remain in place.
“The response from the entire Thoreau community has been remarkable,” said Superintendent Dr. Hunter. “Our educators and staff turned an extraordinarily difficult situation into an example of what can happen when people come together. Our families met every change with patience and trust. Because of them, Thoreau began this school year with the same energy and sense of community that have always defined the school.”
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Art teacher Kate Hiltz uses a mobile cart to teach, bringing her materials directly into general education classrooms. (Photo Courtesy Concord Public Schools)
Spanish teacher Annette Howard uses a mobile cart to teach, bringing her materials directly into general education classrooms. (Photo Courtesy Concord Public Schools)
This tent supports outdoor student teaching and learning. (Photo Courtesy Concord Public Schools)
A second-grade class is meeting in a modular classroom. (Photo Courtesy Concord Public Schools)