The following is an important update from Superintendent Jody Monroe for BCHS families. It is being sent districtwide.

April 23, 2024

Dear BC Parent/Guardian:

I am writing to inform you about an investigation by the Bethlehem Police Department into the origin and cause of a fire today in the C wing boys’ bathroom at Bethlehem Central High School. There were no injuries related to this incident, however, students and staff were evacuated from the building and there was a significant disruption to the school day.

The school evacuated at approximately 10:55 a.m. when the fire alarm sounded after smoke was detected in the area of an exhaust fan in the boys’ bathroom. The exhaust fan was originally thought to be the source of the smoke. The fire department immediately responded to the school, located the source of the smoke, and determined it was likely an intentional act. 

The fire department notified the Bethlehem Police Department and the police department immediately began an investigation. The school district is cooperating with the police department and the fire department in the investigation. The district is also conducting a school investigation according to the district’s Code of Conduct.

Students and staff who evacuated returned to the school at approximately 11:50 a.m. and the C wing was reopened at approximately 1:30 p.m. 

Since this is an ongoing investigation into the origin and cause of the bathroom fire there is no additional information that can be shared at this time. As the investigation moves forward, we will share all pertinent information that becomes available.

This incident is a very serious matter and is being treated as such. The safety of students and staff is of greatest importance to the district. There will be additional security measures in place to ensure safety throughout the school and throughout the day. Please have a conversation with your child about the seriousness of this matter.

School administrators, counselors, social workers, and other support staff are always available as resources for students and families who have safety concerns. I encourage you to remind your students of this support system, which is an integral part of their school community.  

Sincerely,

Jody Monroe

Superintendent