Attorneys representing parents and students provide statement on Covington Middle School

COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – Covington Middle School reopened last month after a carbon monoxide leak at the end of January. Yet, despite officials’ assurances of a safe environment, there is mounting evidence to the contrary: children are coming home from school sick, and tests continue to confirm high levels of carbon monoxide.

For that reason, on behalf of a significant number of parents and their children, we have filed a Petition with the Virginia Board of Education requesting that they step in and use their authority to temporarily shut down Covington Middle School and direct the School Board to implement alternative options, such as virtual learning or relocating classes to the underutilized Covington Academy building.

At the same time, on behalf of four parents and their children leading the charge, we have filed a lawsuit asking the Circuit Court to temporarily shut down Covington Middle School, supported by the statements from numerous other parents.

We are also calling upon the School Board to cover and reimburse the cost of carbon monoxide testing for parents so that no child is denied the medical care they need.

This is a public health crisis that demands attention from every level of government, and we look forward to resolving this matter in a way that ensures the health and safety of every child at Covington Middle School.

* Statement provided by Fishwick & Associates PLC, Counsel for Plaintiffs and Covington Parents