Five Teens Arrested for Vandalism at Closed Middle School in Santa Rosa
Five 15-year-old students from Montgomery High School were arrested Thursday for suspected vandalism at the closed Herbert Slater Middle School in Santa Rosa. Authorities estimate the damage at around $5,000.
Details of the Incident
Santa Rosa police reported that the vandalism affected multiple areas of the school, including:
- Gym
- Boys’ and girls’ locker rooms
- Weight room
- Wrestling room
- Stage
The destruction involved a broken skylight, torn curtains, a damaged television, and additional damage throughout the building. District employees discovered the damage at approximately 10:45 a.m. Sunday and alerted the police.
Background on Herbert Slater Middle School Closure
Herbert Slater Middle School was closed in June following the 2024-25 school year. This closure was part of a decision by the Santa Rosa City Schools Board of Trustees to shut down four campuses — two middle schools and two elementary schools — to help address a $20 million budget shortfall.
Two more campuses, Hilliard Comstock Middle and Steele Lane Elementary, are scheduled to close next June.
Current Use of School Campuses
"No regular instruction occurs at Slater or Santa Rosa middle schools, but both campuses are still used for junior high sports practices and games."
According to district spokesperson Patrick Gannon, although middle and high school students share campuses, their athletic programs remain separate.
Summary
The arrest of five teens for vandalizing a closed middle school highlights ongoing challenges following significant school closures aimed at managing district budget cuts.