WASHINGTON -- Staff arriving for work at Sousa Middle School in southeast D.C. Monday morning found the building a mess.
They immediately called police. Police said someone entered the building and sprayed a fire extinguisher in the front corridor.
Further investigation showed that someone had also sprayed six fire extinguishers throughout all four levels of the school. Officers also found that someone destroyed two exit signs and one bleacher.
In a letter to parents, Principal Courtney Wilkerson said, "Due to the condition of our building, school will be closed for the day to allow time for adequate cleaning and repair. Students will be able to receive cold breakfast at the Nationals Youth Baseball Academy."
Anyone with any information about the incident are asked to call the Metropolitan Police Department.
Read Wilkerson's full letter below:
Dear Sousa Middle School Parents and Families,
At Sousa, we highly value and are committed to fostering a safe and secure learning environment. A large part of that commitment is communicating potential safety issues with parents when they arise.
Upon arrival this morning, administration was notified that our building had been broken into and vandalized. Following proper protocols, we immediately contacted the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) who arrived quickly to collect a report of the incident and launch their proceedings.
Due to the condition of our building, school will be closed for the day to allow time for adequate cleaning and repair. Students will be able to receive cold breakfast at the Nationals Youth Baseball Academy.
The safety of our students is paramount at all times. If you have any questions or concerns about this incident, please contact me via phone at 202-729-3260 or via email at courtney.wilkerson@dc.gov.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Courtney Wilkerson
Principal, Sousa Middle School