Initial reports suggest Malibu schools have survived the Woolsey fire so far but classes will be canceled in the city through Friday.
A video posted late last week showed flames on the Malibu High School campus but the campus remained standing this weekend and officials said damage might be confined to a single construction trailer.
Superintendent Dr. Ben Drati said the district remained concerned for the children and families displaced by the fire.
“My heart goes out to our families, community members and staff members currently affected by the fires in and around Malibu. We share your concerns about the crisis unfolding right now as two fires converge on our beloved beach community,” he said in a letter. “This is a tragic situation happening in our school district and we are aware that families and staff have lost homes. We are so sorry to hear this sad news.”
While Santa Monica schools will reopen Tuesday following the Veterans Day holiday, Malibu schools will be closed through Nov. 16.
“The pictures emerging from this ongoing, tragic situation in our community are heart breaking. As the crisis unfolds, we know that many of our students, families, and staff have been impacted. We are aware that many have lost their homes and many do not know the current status of their homes, as evacuation orders are still in effect,” said the district in a message to parents.
SMMUSD is also asking residents and staff impacted by the fire to let them know of any special circumstances relevant to the schools.
“In an effort to better understand the current needs and to provide support, we have created a brief survey,” said the announcement. “Please see the links below. One is for families and one is for staff. If your home has sustained damage, if you have lost your home, have sustained injury, or there is any other situation that you think is helpful for us to be aware of, please complete the appropriate survey if you are able/willing to do so. In place of the survey, you may also contact your principal or submit an email through Let’s Talk: www.smmusd.org.”
The Boys and Girls Club of Malibu is accepting donations on behalf of Malibu residents and their equestrian community. They are working with Senator Stern’s office to handle donations and donations can be made via their website (bgcmalibu.org, click on “invest in Malibu youth”) or through the Malibu Foundation for Youth and Families, DBA the Boys and Girls Club of Malibu 501c3 95-4774844.
Equestrian specific donations can be noted by email kaseyearnest@bgcmalibu.org.
