Riverside University High School Closed Due to Chemical Spill

News Summary

Riverside University High School in Milwaukee will remain closed on September 2 due to a chemical spill linked to old science equipment containing mercury. Milwaukee Public Schools made the decision to prioritize the safety and health of students and staff, with cleanup ongoing. While air quality tests indicate the building is safe, some classrooms will remain closed during this time. Staff members are still expected to report for work, and students will return to classes the following day. MPS officials are investigating the spill’s cause and are committed to ensuring a safe environment for all.

Milwaukee – Riverside University High School will remain closed on Tuesday, September 2, due to a chemical spill. The decision to close the school was made by Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) to prioritize the health and safety of its students and staff.

Parents of students received official notification regarding the closure, which comes just before the new school year. Although air quality tests conducted at the school showed that the building has returned to safe standards, cleanup activities are still underway. A few classrooms will remain closed as crews continue their work.

The incident appears to be linked to old science equipment containing mercury, which may have contributed to the spill. MPS officials are still investigating the specifics surrounding the incident to determine how it occurred.

Despite the closure for students, school staff members are still required to report for work on September 2. Students are expected to return to classes on Wednesday, September 3, after the completion of cleanup activities and evaluations of the facilities.

This incident is particularly noteworthy as it takes place right before the start of the school year, which usually begins on September 2 for most students within the MPS district. MPS Deputy Superintendent Eduardo Galván has expressed appreciation for the understanding and patience of students, staff, and families during this period of disruption.

The Riverside High School community is being encouraged to stay informed about updates related to the situation as MPS continues to work through the incident and restore normal operations. The thorough evaluations and cleanup measures being employed are aimed at ensuring a safe and healthy environment for the unavoidable return of students and staff in the coming days.

In summary, Milwaukee Public Schools is taking necessary precautions following the chemical spill at Riverside University High School to ensure the safety of students and staff, delaying the start of the school year until September 3 while investigations into the incident continue.

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Additional Resources

• WISN: Chemical Spill Delays First Day of School
• Wikipedia: Chemical Spill
• TMJ4: Chemical Spill Closes School
• Google Search: Chemical Spill School Safety
• Fox6Now: Riverside University High School Closed
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Mercury
• WUWMM: Milwaukee Students Back to School
• Google News: Riverside University High School
• Seehafer News: Chemical Spill Postpones Classes