Custodian passes away at West Newton’s Franklin Elementary School

Franklin Elementary School in West Newton was closed on Tuesday after a longtime school custodian suddenly passed away while at work.

The school district posted a message on Facebook late Tuesday morning announcing the school would close for the rest of the day and there would be no after school care at the facility.

A school official then sent a message to parents confirming the tragic circumstances behind the closure.

“At this time, I share the sad news that our beloved colleague Lenny Schofield, who has taken care of us for years as an evening custodian, unexpected passed away while working in our school,” the message reads. “Please hold Lenny’s family in your thoughts as they navigate this most difficult time.”

No details were provided, but the email mentioned that police and medical personnel had finished their work on Tuesday and the school was allowed to re-open on Wednesday.