Part of Elizabeth Forward auditorium to be razed in controlled demolition after fire, officials say

After discovering several significant issues, part of the Elizabeth Forward High School auditorium will have to be torn down.

The district superintendent notified families of the update through a letter. He said it’s too early to predict when high school students will be able to return to school, but they should prepare for an extended period of remote learning after a fire caused extensive damage to the auditorium.

The fire, which started early Sunday morning, was contained to the auditorium area, but the extent of the damage made it necessary to close the entire building.

PHOTOS: Fire burns through roof at Elizabeth Forward High School

The controlled demolition of the auditorium is scheduled to begin this week. The building sustained fire, water, smoke and structural damage, which must be dealt with in different stages so crews can get to the utilities underneath.

While no sports or extracurricular activities are taking place at the high school, the band trip to Disney planned for this week will proceed, according to the district. The fire damaged uniforms and instruments, so area school districts offered to loan instruments and supplies so that the band wouldn’t have to cancel.

As far as the high school’s spring musical, several school districts have offered the use of the of their auditoriums. Elizabeth Forward officials are working on details and will share information once confirmed.

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