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Pasadena Unified Unveils Plan to Reopen Campuses

District mobilizes comprehensive support system as majority of 14,000 students to resume classes by January 30

Published on Friday, January 17, 2025 | 5:03 am
 

Pasadena School District and City leaders announce reopening plan for public schools at media conference on Thursday, January 16, 2025. [Eddie Rivera / Pasadena Now]
The Pasadena Unified School District unveiled a comprehensive plan Thursday to gradually reopen schools affected by last week’s catastrophic Eaton Fire, while addressing challenges ranging from air quality concerns to mental health support.

“We will reopen, we will rebuild, and we will rise,” Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco announced during a special Jan. 16 Board meeting. “Despite the challenges we face, our commitment to our students and families remains unwavering. We are dedicated to coming together, rebuilding, and ensuring the well-being and success of our community.”

The fire caused severe damage to five Pasadena Unified School District facilities, including Eliot Arts Magnet Middle School, Franklin Elementary, and three charter school sites—the Edison, Loma Alta, and Noyes Elementary school campuses. More than 10,000 of the District’s 14,000 students were evacuated from their homes during the disaster.

Under the phased reopening plan, approximately 3,400 students will return to eight schools and two programs on Jan. 23, including Hamilton Willard Elementary, Willard Children’s Center, Blair Middle School, Blair High School, San Rafael, McKinley Middle School, Rose City High School, and several other facilities.

An additional 5,400 students are scheduled to return in the second phase, with the remaining 5,000 students returning in the final phase by Jan. 30.

The District faces significant logistical challenges, including the temporary shutdown of HVAC systems during cleaning to prevent recontamination. Schools will reopen without air conditioning until systems can be safely restored.

For displaced students unable to return immediately, the District is working with the Governor’s office and State Superintendent to streamline independent study options. Each student’s place at their original school will be protected during this transition period.

The Los Angeles County Office of Education is deploying over 50 licensed clinical social workers and counselors to support students and staff. The District will hold all-staff training meetings at Pasadena City College next Wednesday before welcoming students back.

Athletic activities will continue with modifications, with teams practicing and competing at locations outside the affected zone until air quality improves.

The crisis has directly affected Pasadena Unified School District staff, with 1,387 employees—nearly half the District’s workforce—residing in Altadena, Pasadena, and Sierra Madre. Many lost their homes in the fire.

The Pasadena Educational Foundation (PEF) has taken a leading role in coordinating relief efforts for the immediate needs of Pasadena Unified schools and families impacted by the Eaton Fire. This Response Fund aims to ensure resources reach those who need them most during this crisis.

PEF is actively accepting donations through its website at pased.org/responsefund. It also set up a volunteer portal at pased.org/volunteer for those wishing to offer their time and skills.

“In times of hardship, our District community has always shown remarkable strength and unity, and this time is no different,” Board President Jennifer Hall Lee said. “The challenges of the Eaton Fire have tested us in unthinkable ways, yet I am still struck by how much resilience and compassion I have seen from our community. This has truly been a testament to the spirit of Pasadena Unified.”

The District has mobilized more than 1,000 workers for cleanup efforts, removing 10 tons of debris from affected campuses. Additionally, about 200 community volunteers have stepped forward to assist with recovery efforts. Support services include grab-and-go meal distribution, which has served over 2,800 meals since Jan. 10, and coordinated childcare services through community partners.

Each campus must pass environmental testing before reopening, with particular attention being paid to air quality and safety standards. The District plans to prioritize both physical safety and emotional support as students return to the classroom.

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