Bell chimes in new start for middle school

The start of the school year can only improve over the previous one for students of the Matawan-Aberdeen Middle School. A year ago this week, a 13-year-old Aberdeen boy allegedly set fire to what was then called Matawan Avenue Middle School, causing $2 million in damages, two delayed openings, the displacement of students, and split-session school days for several months because of a lack of classroom space.

We’re no closer today to knowing why this boy, who was not even a student in the district, may have caused this disruption to so many families’ lives. The matter is being adjudicated in the county’s juvenile court system, where proceedings are typically closed to the public and media.

But apparent for all to see is the developing success story of the school’s comeback. Last week, Schools Superintendent Bruce Quinn offered a tour of the building and showed that with most damages repaired and $14 million in referendum work well under way, it’s going to be bigger and better than ever before. Although some construction work is ongoing, students can expect to have a new gymnasium, commons area, media center, cafeteria, classrooms, laboratories and more at their disposal by year’s end.

Quinn, the Board of Education and other district officials have done a commendable job in guiding the school through this difficult ordeal, just as parents and students have shown patience in dealing with it. We hope today begins a long and prosperous chapter in the school’s history.