ELKINS — Officials announced that Elkins Middle School will be closed today due to air quality issues that some parents believe caused several EMS students to become ill on Thursday.

Around 8:15 p.m. Thursday, Randolph County Schools posted the following on social media:

“Subject: Elkins Middle School Closing Notice for Friday, October 25, 2024

“Dear parents and guardians,

“Due to water and air quality issues, Randolph County Schools will be closing Elkins Middle School tomorrow, Friday, October 25, 2024. We are working closely with local authorities to address these issues and ensure all systems are operating safely .

“Please be assured that Elkins Middle School underwent two separate inspections and no excessive levels of carbon monoxide were detected. We will continue to work with the state fire marshal, local fire department, emergency management and air quality experts to maintain a safe environment for our students.

“Thank you for your understanding and support as we prioritize the safety of our school community.

“Sincerely, Randolph County Schools.”

School officials acknowledged that “fumes” FROM “a bucket of non-toxic glue” caused an odor at Elkins Middle School Thursday that some parents blame for making their children sick.

The Inter-Mountain received calls and texts Thursday afternoon from residents about EMS students getting sick and being treated at Davis Medical Center.

A parent of two EMS students posted on social media around 4 p.m. “Now we’re in the ER and they’re going to stay overnight… they’ve had blood drawn and they’ve been exposed to carbon monoxide… they’ve got levels in their bodies where they now have to stay overnight… if your child was in middle school today, no – that’s right. what can I tell you, but don’t hesitate to bring your kids to the ER.”

Later, another EMS parent posted that her daughter’s “Carboxyhemoglobin level is 4.6 and should be 0 – 1.5. He is currently receiving oxygen! I urge you to take your child to the ER to get checked out!”

Carboxyhemoglobin is a molecule formed when carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells.

The school system said Thursday afternoon that the adhesive is being used by “roofing contractors” at EMS.

At 4:55 p.m., Randolph County Schools Superintendent Dr. Shawn Dilly posted the following statement on social media:

“An update for EMS families:

“We want to address the recent carbon monoxide concerns at Elkins Middle School. Please be assured that the school is equipped with carbon monoxide detectors throughout the HVAC system, providing continuous safety monitoring.

“As a precaution, the fire brigade and gas company carried out thorough inspections of the building and we are pleased to report that no high levels of carbon monoxide were detected. The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority.

“We encourage families to seek medical attention if their children are showing symptoms. Additionally, we recommend checking your home for elevated levels as an added safety measure.

“Thank you for your continued support and attention to this issue.

“Sincerely, Randolph County Schools.”

Earlier at 16:29 Dilly posted:

“Elkins Middle School Families:

“We want to make you aware of an incident involving our roofing contractors that occurred today at Elkins Middle School. A bucket of non-toxic glue was placed near a fresh air intake, generating vapors that generated an odor in a portion of the school.

“To deal with the situation promptly, we closed the intake, opened windows and doors for ventilation and relocated some students to minimize the impact. Please be assured that the safety and well-being of our students and staff is always our top priority and we have taken these steps to ensure a safe environment.

“We appreciate your understanding and patience as we continue our roofing project. We will remain vigilant to prevent similar issues in the future. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the school office.

“Sincerely, Dr. Shawn Dilly, Superintendent.”