A giant Sycamore tree that anchored the northwest corner of Cedarhurst Elementary School in Burien is being removed after vandals severely damaged it with a chainsaw.

Several other Sycamores along the west side of the school had been removed when a new school was built in 2007. Namesake Cedar trees were left on the school’s north side.

But the new school was designed around this survivor Sycamore, which stood guard at the front of the school.

Neighbors said they heard noises Thursday night but the vandalism was not detected until daylight on Friday. A deep cut was made along one side of the tree with a chainsaw.

Highline School District officials decided to have the tree removed for safety reasons. Crews began work on Monday.

A neighbor, who identified herself as a botanist, said the tree, might have remained safe in an isolated area. But she agreed that in a residential neighborhood with homes, utility wires and school children around, removing the tree was prudent.

Cedarhurst has had its share of problems. Some staff and parents said the old building contained mold that caused health concerns.

Then while the new school was being built, it was hit by a roof fire.

The school at 611 S. 132nd St. in northeast Burien has a student enrollment of 635.

We will update this story when more details are available.