METHUEN, MASS. (WHDH) - The Methuen school district is tackling a pest problem.
Over the weekend, Superintendent of Schools Brandi Kwong updated families about mice mitigation efforts at four schools: Methuen High, Tenney, Marsh, and Timony schools.
Methuen teachers snapped photos of mouse droppings spotted throughout Timony Grammar School.
“The Timony is a bit of a perfect storm. It is an older building. We also did a lot of construction over the last year at the high school, which is the property next to the Timony. You disturb them and they come out of the marshland and they have to look for a warm place to go,” said Methuen School Committee Secretary Dan Shibilia.
A Methuen High School senior said he has seen rodents scurry around campus.
“I seen a rat come out from under the cabinet and run right back under, so them rats have been here for a bit. This is nothing new to the school,” Andy Vasquez said.
School officials are working with experts and have enhanced cleaning efforts and sealed potential entry points.
Starting next month, students will only be allowed to eat food in the cafeteria and all kitchen appliances will be removed from classrooms.
“It’s kind of gross to think about, but you know, you still got to go to school and do what you got to do,” said Aidan Marino, a student at Methuen High.
Kwong said they have also reached out to the department of public health for assistance.
Concerned parent Jade Jalbert said she does not want her kids in those school buildings.
“If it’s a matter of their health, no. They need to be in a place that is safe for them. And it’s not safe,” Jalbert said.
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