Pasadena Unified Schools Reopen Following Eaton Fire

The Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) is reopening additional schools following the Eaton Fire, which led to campus closures beginning January 8. As of January 29, three more schools—Don Benito Fundamental, Sierra Madre Elementary, and Sierra Madre Middle School—are welcoming students back, increasing the total to 6,700 students in classrooms. The district conducted extensive environmental testing and cleaning, ensuring safety by hiring certified providers to assess fire-related contaminants. In a phased reopening, a total of 10 schools and programs resumed operations starting January 23, with all remaining schools scheduled to reopen by January 30. Meanwhile, schools in the Malibu area are closing due to dangerous weather conditions, contrasting with the reopening efforts in Pasadena. District officials thanked the community for their support in making the schools safe for students and staff.