The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) — Alleghany Highlands Public Schools is investigating the return of an unknown odor at Covington Middle School that has once again raised concerns among parents and prompted increased student absences. School officials reported the odor was first detected again on Monday morning on the third floor, similar to the previous incident on January 31 that led to a carbon monoxide leak discovery. Local police and emergency
managers assessed the situation and found no immediate cause for alarm. Despite official assurances, many parents chose to keep their children home. Attendance figures were significantly lower than normal, with families expressing ongoing safety concerns.
A school board closed-session meeting was held Monday night to seek legal counsel, though no additional details were released.
A separate closed meeting between parents and Attorney John Fishwick Jr. of Fishwick and Associates Law firm took place at the union hall building to discuss the ongoing incident and share that his firm will be looking into the matter.
Also, on hand to hear parents’ concerns and give support was District 37 House of Delegates hopeful Austen Schwend, who asked that parents reach out to him on Facebook at Austen Schwend for Delegate and share their concerns and frustrations on the matter. School administrators allowed teachers near the affected area to relocate classrooms if they felt it would help students concentrate. A robo call was sent to parents providing updates about the situation. The district continues to monitor the situation and investigate the source of the mysterious odor.
District 37 House of Delegates hopeful Austen Schwend (Christopher Mentz photo)
Attorney John Fishwick Jr of Fishwick and Associates Law firm (Christopher Mentz photo)
