JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Students and staff at Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology had to evacuate the building for about 45 minutes on Monday afternoon due to smoke in the building, according to a message sent to parents by the principal.
The smoke was coming from a second-floor bathroom in the F building, Principal Jessica Mastromatto said in the message.
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The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department found the smoke appeared to be coming from a piece of paper that may have been lit on fire.
Mastromatto said the school day was able to continue, but due to smoke and a “potential health hazard,” students would not be able to retrieve their belongings at the end of the school day.
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However, those belongings would be held safely overnight, she said. Read the full message from Mastromatto below:
“Good Afternoon FHP families, this is Principal Mastromatto with a message to inform you of an incident that occurred today and the measures we took to keep our school safe. This afternoon during the first lunch period, students and staff were safely evacuated from the building for approximately 45 minutes due to smoke in a second floor bathroom of our “F” Building. The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department responded immediately and determined that the source of the smoke appeared to be a piece of paper that may have been lit on fire. JFRD thoroughly inspected the building before allowing students and staff to return, and we have – for the most part -- resumed our normal school day. However, because of the presence of smoke and potential health hazard in this portion of the campus, students will not be able to retrieve their belongings at the end of the school day. Those belongings will be held securely overnight and returned to students tomorrow. We are continuing to investigate the events that occurred today, and anyone who may have been involved will be subject to disciplinary action under our student code of conduct. We appreciate the patience, cooperation, and composure shown by our students and staff during this incident. If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at the school. Thank you, and have a good rest of your day.”
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