What was supposed to be a routine concert rehearsal turned into a health emergency for eleven young students at Wentworth School.
Key Takeaways
- Eleven students in Scarborough, Maine were hospitalized following respiratory issues during a rehearsal.
- No gas leaks were detected after emergency crews conducted thorough inspections.
- Students in third and fourth grade were affected, but all injuries were minor.
- Normal school operations resumed the following day, but the cause of the health scare remains unknown.
Emergency at Wentworth School
In the midst of a concert rehearsal at Wentworth School in Scarborough, Maine, chaos ensued as eleven students from third and fourth grades reported respiratory distress. Approximately 120 students were in the cafeteria when one fainted, leading to a rapid response from emergency services. The incident led to an immediate evacuation due to concerns about a potential gas leak.
Fire Chief Rich Kindelan assured, “There were no real reports of a particular smell, so we metered it for several different gases to make sure there was nothing present.” Thorough investigations detected no hazards or gas leaks, and the school’s fire and carbon monoxide detectors were found functioning well.
Hospitalization and Investigation
All affected students were hospitalized as a precautionary measure, with evaluations showing only minor injuries or health complaints. According to Dr. Diane Nadeau, Superintendent of Scarborough schools, the children were sent “for further evaluation and precautionary measures.” Remaining students were temporarily relocated to Scarborough High School during the investigation.
The underlying cause of this incident remains unexplained despite rigorous checks and analysis of the environment. School authorities and emergency personnel continue their efforts to ascertain what led to these symptoms.
Return to Normalcy
Following this frightening episode, students and staff returned to Wentworth School without further incidents. The school concert’s status remains uncertain as safety precautions and monitoring continue to ensure student welfare and reassurance among concerned parents and staff.
As Scarborough’s community rallies around those affected, Wentworth School’s officials remain focused on student safety and providing answers behind this troubling disruption.
Sources
1. Maine student passes out, 11 taken to hospital as cause of illnesses remains unknown
2. 11 students hospitalized after falling ill in cafeteria of Maine school, officials say
