A fire in the Shelter area between Golding and Ryder Schools forced Cobleskill-Richmondville to evacuate students and staff from both schools last Thursday.
At about 11:20am, a student apparently started the fire in a bathroom.
“It was vandalism,” said Superintendent Matt Sickles, who added that police are continuing an investigation.
Charges were filed against the student, but because the case is in Family Court, Mr. Sickles was reluctant to give details.
Drivers and buses were called in, and elementary and middle school students were transported to the High School, where they received lunch.
“It was wonderful. They made sure kids were warm and fed,” Ryder Principal John Penman said of the high school staff.
Mr. Sickles said school officials responded to the emergency plan and did well.
“It was a complete team effort,” agreed school board President Bruce Tryon.