The Solomon-Plains school complex, part of the Wilkes-Barre Area School District, will remain closed until after the Christmas break due to extensive smoke damage from a recent fire. Superintendent Brian Costello informed families that the school will not conduct virtual classes during this closure period.
Costello assured families that, “We will recover as much time as possible throughout the remainder of the school year, and whatever cannot be made up during the year will be added to June.” He also mentioned that an updated school calendar will be shared once finalized. More details can be found in his letter to families.
The Solomon-Plains campus, situated on Abbott Street in Plains Township, houses both Leo E. Solomon elementary and middle schools.
Extended Closure Due to Smoke Damage
The fire, which started early on a Thursday morning before the school day began, was confined to a single classroom at the Solomon Junior High building. While the fire was quickly controlled, smoke and water affected several parts of the building. Initial assessments underestimated the extent of smoke infiltration.
Costello explained that recent evaluations revealed “smoke traveled much farther through the building than anyone expected.” He noted that, “Over the past several days, Servpro and Hillmann — the environmental firm responsible for air-quality testing and safety assessments — have continued their detailed evaluation of the building.” Smoke particles were found in various areas, indicating the need for comprehensive cleaning.
Hillmann has recommended not reopening the school until complete restoration is assured. This includes cleaning above ceilings, the HVAC system, and performing final air-quality tests to ensure safety. Costello emphasized the priority of safety, stating, “For this reason, the Solomon Complex will remain closed through Christmas break.”
Impact on School Schedule
According to the school’s calendar, the Christmas break runs from December 24 to January 2, with classes expected to resume on January 5. However, during the extended closure, virtual learning will not be implemented. Costello reiterated, “Based on what we learned during COVID, long-term virtual instruction is not in the best interest of our students academically, socially, or emotionally.”
The district plans to make up for the lost days in a manner similar to traditional snow day adjustments. Costello added that more detailed communication from the Solomon administrative team is forthcoming, and reassured families, “We will get through this together, and we will only return to the building when we are absolutely certain it is fully cleaned, safe, and ready for students and staff.”
