Marlborough School Unites in Response to Los Angeles Wildfires

Marlborough School Unites in Response to Los Angeles Wildfires

This past week, devastating wildfires swept through the Los Angeles area, leaving a path of destruction and uncertainty in their wake. Many members of the Marlborough community faced unimaginable challenges—losing their homes, remaining under evacuation mandates, and managing extended power outages. Yet, even in the face of hardship, the strength and resilience of our community have shown a light on the deep connections that unite us together.

From the moment the fires broke out, the School’s priority has been to care for one another and ensure the safety and wellbeing of our students, their families, and our faculty and staff. Marlborough closed its doors from January 8 to 10 in light of the unpredictable nature of the fires, the number of Marlborough community members who had been affected, and the associated air quality hazards that pose a risk to the health of our community. This time allowed us to reach out to our community to understand each of their unique circumstances. During those days, we heard stories of resilience and hope, and an overwhelming desire to help.  

Faculty and staff quickly mobilized. The Social Justice and Community Partnerships Department sprang into action, and by January 9, our campus became a hub of relief activity. Essential supplies—including clothing, bedding, hygiene products, food, water, and more—flowed in and out of campus, addressing the immediate needs of our current families, faculty, and staff, as well as supporting local nonprofits serving the wider community. All-School Council and Senior Class Council sprung into action by assembling care packages full of comfortable clothes, restaurant gift cards, and handwritten notes of support for students who had lost their homes to the fires. Lovingly assembled and delivered, All-School President Taryn A. ’25 shared, “In this time of destruction, it's important to me that we regain community, face to face.”

By January 13, after ensuring campus safety, Marlborough welcomed students back to campus, recognizing the importance that routine can offer in fostering a sense of stability and connection. Since returning, Marlborough’s focus has extended beyond academics, prioritizing spaces and opportunities for students to process and heal. Counselors remain readily available for one-on-one support, while extended Homeroom and Advisory sessions offered students moments of connection. Lunchtime activities, like puzzles and games, are providing students opportunities to decompress and find a sense of calm.  

This crisis has also touched our alumnae in unimaginable ways. The School has reached out to former Violets to assess their needs. By completing an online form, alumnae directly affected by the fires can request a replacement of important documents like diplomas or yearbooks, or keepsakes like class pins and rings. While some requests may take time to fulfill or may not be feasible, the School is committed to understanding and addressing the needs of our alumnae community.  

Reflecting on these difficult days and the time it will take to rebuild, we are struck by the compassion and generosity that define our Marlborough community. While the road ahead may still be uncertain for many, we are reminded that our strength lies in our shared commitment to one another. As expressed by Head of School Jennifer Ciccarelli, “Our hearts and minds remain with everyone affected by the devastating wildfires across Los Angeles... The ongoing challenges faced—whether you have been displaced, are hosting displaced family or friends, or dealing with the emotional toll of these events—are deeply felt throughout our community.” 

Marlborough remains committed to supporting every member of our school family through this challenging time, adapting our response as needs evolve, and ensuring that no one faces these difficulties alone.


More News