Edison School Reopens After Fire Destroys Old Building Nearly 3 Years Ago

EDISON, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Some students in Edison, New Jersey were back in class in a new building Tuesday after a fire destroyed their original school nearly three years ago.

It's a new year and a new start at James Monroe Elementary School as the shiny new gym was filled with kindergarten through 5th grade students -- all thankful to be back in Edison.

"I think it took a really long time but it's really cool," said one student. "I loved it inside."

Principal Linda Zapoticzny remembers the scene from March 2014 all too well.

"Lots of emotions, but joyful is the one I got here," she told CBS2's Meg Baker. "It was breathtaking, you can't really imagine what it felt like. That's when it hits you how long a journey it's been -- almost three years."

Authorities said a fire was sparked by a former custodian who discarded a cigarette and burned the school to the ground. Jerome Higgins was cited for smoking in a non-smoking area and has since retired.

"This is a family, this is not a school," Zapoticzny said.

After the fire, most of the students were bussed to St. Cecelia's, a town over in Iselin.

Parent David Scarito says he lives 12 houses away so he can now walk to the rebuilt school.

The original plan was to have kids back in their seats in September for the start of the school year, but a legal battle with the insurance company delayed things.

"It's fantastic," schools superintendent Richard O'Malley said. "What a great morning."

After securing the appropriate funding, the new school is fully updated.

"We've certainly learned a big lesson from the fire to be ready for the worst," Board of Education member Frank Heelan said. "Very fortunate to have a sprinkler system."

Additionally, the school now has new, easily accessible fire hydrants -- a problem during the 2014 blaze, according to officials.

Staff members tell CBS2 their main priorities are keeping the kids learning, safe, and with a smile on their faces.