Tuxedo schools evacuated after classroom ceiling collapses

TUXEDO — George F. Baker High School was evacuated Friday morning after a ceiling in Room 220 collapsed.

No one was injured in the collapse and all students, staff and faculty were evacuated. Dismissal of both the high school and the George Grant Mason building took place at 10:15 a.m.

GGM students were dismissed because water was turned off district wide.

Police, Fire and Orange Ulster BOCES Risk Management were emergency responders on the scene.

Superintendent of Schools Carol Lomascolo posted the following message on the district's Web site later Friday:

"Architects and Engineers inspected the location of this ceiling collapse. In addition, they conducted a thorough inspection of the building and determined that 'the building's structural system and components are in good, sound condition.'

"In a conference call with New York State Education Department (NYSED), OUBOCES Risk Management, and the Engineers, and at the recommendation of the Engineers, the George F. Baker HS has been approved by the NYSED for occupancy. Therefore, classes will be is session in the George F. Baker High School and the George Grant Mason School on Monday, March 10.

"In addition, the play, originally scheduled for this evening, Friday, March 7th, and Saturday and Sunday March 8th and 9th respectively, is postponed and will be in rescheduled in the near future.

"I would like to thank the Tuxedo Fire and Police Departments, and the OUBOCES Risk Management Team for their quick response and assistance during this incident. I would like to commend Administration, Faculty and staff for their quick actions.

"I would like to assure everyone that the safety and well being of all our students, Staff, Faculty and Administration are always our first priority. "