In-Person Classes Resume for All Binghamton High School Students

Binghamton High School has fully reopened after a week of "virtual instruction" for many students.

The school at 31 Main Street shifted to "fully remote" mode on September 21, the day after a shootout involving four people about one block away.

Principal Kevin Richman announced a plan to gradually reopen the high school over the next several days. All of the school's approximately 1,400 students were advised to report by 8 a.m. Tuesday.

In a letter to families, Richman described the reopening process as a "progressive reentry plan" to allow students to "re-engage appropriately with staff and peers."

The first weeks of the new school year were marred with what some parents said were a series of fights, brawls and other problems. Much of the trouble was linked to younger students.

Richman said until further notice, 9th and 10th grade students must remain on campus for lunch. He wrote the "campus is now closed for them."

Random bag checks are occurring and handheld scanners are being utilized "to detect metal objects."

More staff have been added at dismissal times. A visible police presence was observed at the school as students left the building following classes Monday afternoon.

Binghamton school district superintendent Tonia Thompson has been unavailable to discuss the behavioral issues that prompted the new security measures.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 772-8400 extension 233.

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