Schools

UPDATE: CHS Students Dismissed Early Due to Gas Leak

The following are messages from Coventry High School Principal Michael Hobin distributed to parents via the school's ListServ Monday afternoon and evening.

Published Nov. 25 at 12:45 p.m., Updated at 8:10 p.m.

Update: 

Good evening parents,

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I wanted to update you on the results of today's gas smell.

We did identify that the issue was isolated to the one chemistry room 816, and was most likely a broken hose that caused the smell to circulate throughout that area of the building. Physical Plant did pressure test the three rooms, and only that one room had an issue. We have the gas to the chemistry rooms off at this time and will not be turning it back on until we replace the valves that need replacing.

The fire department, National Grid and our Physical Plant have agreed that the building is ready to open in the morning. Thanks once again for your help with today.

MJH

12:45 p.m.:

Good afternoon parents and families, 

Find out what's happening in Coventrywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

At approximately 9:20 a.m. today, a strong odor of gas was detected in the upstairs science area. We pulled to fire alarm to evacuate the building. The fire department arrived along with our physical plant staff and turned off the gas into the building. 

Once the fire department assessed the situation and determined the source of the odor, the fire department permitted students and staff to re-enter the high school at 9:40 to specific and safe locations (the auditorium and gymnasium).  

At 10:45 a.m. the decision was made to send students home for the day so that National Grid could assess all gas jets and piping in the science department area. We will ensure all equipment is working properly before the building is re-opened.

Once again, our students were simply AWESOME!!! Despite the cold weather and the unknown building situation, the students were cooperative, patient and helpful.  

I will send an update to the list serve later this evening with any further information. Please thank your child(ren) from the administrative staff for a job well done.

MJH 


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