MONROE TOWNSHIP, NJ – A student and a teacher at Monroe Township Middle School sustained burns after a fire broke out during a cooking class, prompting a temporary evacuation of the school, officials said.
The incident occurred on March 12 when a student came into contact with an open flame, igniting her clothing. The teacher in charge attempted to smother the flames, but another student ultimately used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire.
Emergency responders transported the injured student via helicopter to a burn center for treatment of her burns. The teacher suffered minor burns and was taken to a local hospital by ambulance. Monroe Township EMS evaluated additional students exposed to the fire extinguisher and determined they did not require further medical treatment.
As a precaution, the school was briefly evacuated following the fire. Students were allowed to return to the building once officials determined it was safe, and school staff worked with the Monroe Township Fire Department to resume normal activities.
Monroe Township EMS confirmed the response and emphasized the importance of quick action in preventing further injuries. Authorities have not released additional details about the student’s condition.
The school district is expected to review safety protocols surrounding cooking classes to prevent similar incidents in the future. The investigation into the fire is ongoing.