For many Maine school kids and teachers, this week marked the first full week of summer vacation. And after the challenges of the past 3 years of the pandemic, remote learning, masking, and pool testing (just to name a few) following the onset of Covid-19, many educators and administrators have been looking forward to the summer as an opportunity to take a bit of a break, both physically and mentally.

That's what makes the story that's coming out of Lewiston this week even more frustrating and disappointing.

According to the Lewiston Police Department, at about 4 PM Monday afternoon, they were called to the Longley School by the facilities custodian, who reported a significant amount of vandalism had occurred on school grounds.

Longley School 1, NewsCenter YouTube
Longley School 1, NewsCenter YouTube
loading...

When they got there, authorities discovered massive amounts of damage and destruction that had been inflicted deliberately on equipment and classrooms. They determined that the perpetrators had forced their way into the building, and upon further review of security cameras at both the school and through the City of Lewiston, they were able to find the folks who they say are responsible for the damage.

Lewiston PD narrowed it down to four kids they believe to be behind the vandalism. One is 10 years old, two are 12 and the last child is 14 years of age.

The total dollar amount of destruction they say these kids did to the Longley School has been set at $100,000.

"All four were charged with Burglary and Aggravated Criminal Mischief (aggravated due to the estimated dollar amount). Detectives contacted the Juvenile Community Corrections Officer (JCCO) and advised them of the incident and the juveniles involved. It was determined that the juveniles were to be summoned and released to their parents with Conditions of Release."

Longley School 2, News Center Maine YouTube
Longley School 2, News Center Maine YouTube
loading...

According to NewsCenter Maine, it's not clear when the building will be ready to be reopened or how that will affect summer programming.

10 Bangor Playgrounds You Can Visit With Your Kids

If you're looking for a place to take your kids to run, jump and play, here are some options in the Bangor area.

More From WWMJ Ellsworth Maine