This morning before school, contractors were working on the school's outdoor gas meter and some OCRS staff members reported a strong smell of natural gas. No students were in the school at this time and all staff members were evacuated.
Out of an abundance of caution, we immediately called the Smithfield Fire Department and the district's facilities department. During morning arrival for students, the Smithfield Fire Department responded and thoroughly checked the school. Students and staff remained safely outside of the school on the playground. Once Fire Department personnel determined that the school building was safe, we welcomed students and staff into the school using our regular morning routine. Students who needed breakfast were still able to get breakfast.
We apologize for the inconvenience with student drop-off this morning and we appreciate your flexibility. We thank the Smithfield Fire Department for their quick and thorough response and for making sure that our school building is safe for students and staff. Our school's partnerships with the Smithfield Fire Department and Smithfield Police Department are one of many reasons why Smithfield is such a terrific community for our students to live and attend school!
Thank you,
Mr. Barrette