Frank Elementary cafeteria fire believed to be intentionally set

Monday, May 8, 2017

Frank Elementary in Klein ISD closed today after fire

We're getting our first look at damage after a fire at Frank Elementary overnight.

SPRING, Texas (KTRK) -- Hundreds of students won't be going to class again tomorrow at their Klein ISD elementary school after a cafeteria fire that may be a case of arson.

The fire happened at Frank Elementary School in north Harris County. Classes weren't held on Monday, and school officials just announced it will be closed on Tuesday, May 9 as the remediation crews continue to clean and air out the building.

"We had a fire that originated in the kitchen and cafeteria area," Robert Robertson, associate superintendent of facilities and school services, said. "A notice went out about midnight that they had a fire and we have extensive water damage and ceiling damage in the area where the fire began."

The Klein ISD police department has identified a suspect in what is now considered to have been a fire that was intentionally set.

A cafeteria fire at a Klein ISD school means students will have to take the STAAR test at a later date.

The Klein ISD Board is set to vote tonight to consider emergency measures to make repairs as quickly as possible so classes can resume. The district is working with TEA on a waiver for the missed instructional days.

School officials anticipate that the school will reopen on Wednesday, May 10, but they advise parents and staff should monitor the Frank Elementary website and the district Facebook page for updates.