Dozens Stung by Bees at Ashland, Massachusetts School on First Day

On the first day of school at David Mindess Elementary in Ashland, Massachusetts, approximately 40 students and two staff members were stung by bees after an underground nest near the bus loop was disturbed. School nurses and the Ashland Fire Department promptly treated those affected, and fortunately, no severe allergic reactions occurred. The bee infestation caused many bees to enter the school building, prompting the decision to hold recess indoors as a precaution. Professionals relocated the queen bee to a temporary hive, leading the rest of the colony to follow, while the school area around the nest was secured and an exterminator was called in to remove it. Superintendent Jim Adams expressed gratitude for community assistance and emphasized that the situation was resolved as the school moves forward positively. The incident marked a challenging start to the school year but was managed effectively to ensure student safety.