UPDATE |
SOMERSET COUNTY, Pa (WJAC) — Monday marked the first day back on campus for many students and staff at North Star high school following Thursday morning’s “mysterious” situation where 41 students went to the hospital and were treated for symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Superintendent Louis Lepley says attendance was at a normal rate.
Officials say the school is considered safe following an investigation by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Investigators say, following numerous tests, no dangerous chemicals or gases were found in the school.
More tests were also done on the hallway drinking fountain over the weekend, which showed no detections or abnormalities in the water vapors.
The school district will continue working with local and federal authorities in an investigation to find out what caused Thursday’s medical emergencies.
The school district says they and county officials plan to reach out to the state health department for additional assistance in the ongoing investigation.
ORIGINAL |
The Environmental Protection Agency concluded their tests inside North Star High School Saturday, revealing the absence of dangerous chemicals and gasses inside the school, a press release states.
According to the release, the tests included 7 hour and 24 hour air samples.
Additional screening was performed on water from a hallway drinking fountain which showed no detections or abnormalities in water vapors.
North Star School District officials said in the release, "The North Star School District is reassured, with the conclusion of these tests, that the high school is safe for students and staff and looking forward to welcoming students on Monday for classes and student activities."
The release states that, moving forward, the district will be working with local and state law enforcement to continue the investigation into the medical emergencies from April 4.
District officials state, "Additionally, the school district and county officials will reach out to the state health department for additional assistance with the investigation."
According to the press release, the school district will release more information as it becomes available.
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