Pittsfield middle school dismissed early due to heating issues

PITTSFIELD, Mass. (NEWS10) — Herberg Middle School students were dismissed from school early on Monday due to heating issues, Building Principal William M. Wood announced. Most students were sent home at 11 a.m.

The school realized its boilers were not working properly early Monday morning, officials said in an announcement to families. Around 8 a.m., the staff were notified that the electrical and boiler problems could not be immediately fixed, leading to the early dismissal decision. 

According to the middle school, all families were individually contacted to discuss pick-up or bus plans for the 11 a.m. dismissal time. Any students whose guardians were unable to be reached remained at the building until a plan could be confirmed. Students also had the opportunity to take home a bagged lunch if needed.

The district's high school, Pittsfield High School, also had to close for two days in October 2024 due to heating issues. Back then, the school had set up a temporary boiler as a new, permanent one was being installed. However, the Pittsfield Building Maintenance Department was unable to inspect and turn on the temporary boiler until partway through the week, rendering the building too cold for operations.

Herberg Middle School officials said they are planning to resume normal school operations on Tuesday and will announce further updates if anything changes. Families who have any questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the school’s main office at (413) 448-9640 ext. 4001.