Associated Press Published

Two W.Va. Schools Cancel Class After Chemical Odor


Two West Virginia schools closed early because of an odor resembling the chemical that spilled into a regional water system last month.
 
     Riverside High and Midland Trail Elementary in Kanawha County closed Wednesday morning because of the licorice smell.
 
     The chemical wasn’t detected in previous testing.
 
     State schools Superintendent James Phares said schools were flushing their pipes Wednesday because of a water main break earlier in the week and didn’t finish before students arrived. Phares said some students complained of lightheadedness, itchy eyes and noses. A teacher who fainted and a student were taken to a hospital.
 
     The schools are reflushing and testing for the chemical. No decision will be made about Thursday’s classes until results return. The schools also have hand sanitizer and bottled water