ADAMS, Mass. — The frigid temperature of this past weekend taxed the heating for Hoosac Valley Elementary School, forcing the school to have an early dismissal. 

 

It was learned at 5:30 on Monday morning that three boilers had shut down and the temperature in the school was 44 degrees.

 

"Services were called and initially it was thought that the temperatures would be up to normal by our usual opening time and things would run on our regular schedule," wrote Superintendent Robert Putnam. "As the morning progressed, many classrooms did return to normal temperatures and the boilers were all running, however, nine rooms in the school were still not above 54 degrees. In addition, as frozen areas began to receive heat and thaw we had instances where water was leaking at various volumes making it necessary to relocate some programs."

 

The superintendent made the decision to release the students at 11:30 am in order for plumbers, electricians and community partners to evaluate and work on the systems "to ensure that we can be up an running for tomorrow."

 

Principal Michelle Colvin implemented the system for alerting families and an All-Call message was sent and information posted on social media. Classroom teachers called every parent to ensure that students have a place to go. Colvin also contacted the community center and local day-care providers so that they could accommodate families.  

 

Ouellette Plumbing, Adams Plumbing and Heating, and the Adams Fire Department are working with the school to ensure a full day of school on Tuesday.