News Summary
Riverside University High School in Milwaukee has postponed its opening day due to a reported chemical spill on campus. The decision prioritizes the safety of students and staff while cleanup operations are underway. Most other Milwaukee schools will open as planned. Investigations into the incident point towards old science equipment potentially containing mercury as the source of the spill. Parents have been informed, and school personnel are working to ensure a safe return to classes for students on the following day.
Milwaukee School Delays Opening Due to Chemical Spill at Riverside University High School
Milwaukee, WI — Riverside University High School is postponing its first day of classes after a chemical spill was reported on its campus. The school, part of Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS), will remain closed to students on Tuesday, September 2, and plans to reopen on Wednesday, September 3.
School Closure and Notifications
Parents and guardians received official communication from Milwaukee Public Schools informing them that students should not report to Riverside University High School on September 2. The decision to delay the start of classes was made to ensure the safety of students and staff amid ongoing cleanup and safety investigations. Most other Milwaukee schools are scheduled to open as planned on September 2, making Riverside’s delay notable.
Details of the Incident and Safety Measures
The incident involved a chemical spill on the school grounds, prompting an immediate response from safety officials. Despite the spill, air quality tests conducted after the incident have been within safe limits. However, cleanup efforts are still underway, and a small number of classrooms will remain closed for safety reasons. This cleaning process aims to thoroughly remove any residual hazardous materials and prevent any health risks.
Investigation and Possible Causes
Milwaukee Public Schools Deputy Superintendent Eduardo Galván disclosed that officials are actively investigating the cause of the spill. Preliminary findings suggest that old science equipment, possibly containing mercury, may have contributed to the incident. Mercury is a toxic metal often found in outdated scientific instruments, and its release requires careful handling and cleanup to avoid health hazards.
Staffing and Facility Operations
While students are not expected on campus Tuesday, school staff members are still required to report to work. School personnel are involved in ongoing cleanup efforts and preparations for the safe reopening of the school. Maintenance teams and safety personnel continue to monitor the campus environment to ensure that all areas are safe for students to return.
Impact on the School Year
The delay in the start date has shifted the beginning of the academic year for Riverside University High School by one day. School officials emphasized that student safety remains their top priority and that they are taking all necessary precautions before reopening. The postponement affects only Riverside, as neighboring schools are scheduled to open on September 2 without delay.
Additional Context and Future Plans
This incident highlights concerns around older school infrastructure and outdated laboratory equipment, which can pose safety risks if not properly managed. School officials have assured parents and students that enhanced safety protocols are in place, and that the school is committed to a safe and smooth transition back to in-person learning. After the cleanup and final safety inspections are complete, students will be able to return for their first day of classes on September 3, with plans to commence the academic year as scheduled.
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Additional Resources
- WISN: Chemical Spill Delays First Day of School at Riverside High School
- Wikipedia: Chemical Spill
- TMJ4: Chemical Spill Closes One Milwaukee School
- Google Search: School Chemical Spills
- Fox6Now: Riverside University High School Closed Due to Chemical Spill
- Google Scholar: Chemical Spill Protocols in Schools
- WUWM: Milwaukee Area Students Are Back to School
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Safety
- Hoodline: Milwaukee’s Riverside University High School Postpones First Day Amid Cleanup
- Google News: Milwaukee High School Chemical Spills
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
