LANCASTER COUNTY, S.C. — Andrew Jackson Middle School is expected to be closed for at least a week after a fire broke out in the building Thursday night.
The electrical fire started in a janitor’s closet and spread to the ceiling, officials said. Fire doors closed when heat sensors went off, preventing more damage.
There was heavy smoke damage reported throughout the building, prompting officials to announce that classes would be canceled Friday.
Later Friday morning, it was announced that the school would be closed next Monday as well. On Tuesday, sixth-graders will go to Heath Springs Elementary and seventh graders will go to Kershaw Elementary.
Officials said eighth-graders would go to Andrew Jackson High School, which is next door to the middle school.
The fire caused between $700,000 to $1 million worth of damage to the school.
Superintendent Jonathan Phipps talked to the teachers who came to the school Thursday night after the fire.
"To watch their reactions, with tears in their eyes, as they walk down the hall, and to see student's artwork, and the murals that have been up there for 10-plus years," Phipps said.
School officials are concerned about the electrical system and cafeteria equipment.
An environmental health team will be at the school next week to make sure students are safe when they return.
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