Milwaukee, September 3, 2025
News Summary
Riverside University High School in Milwaukee is closed following a chemical spill that raised safety concerns. Though air quality tests returned safe results, cleanup is ongoing, with some classrooms remaining closed. Students are expected to return to school shortly after the incident, while staff members are required to report to work during the closure. Investigations suggest outdated science equipment may have contributed to the spill, prompting district officials to ensure a safe environment for students and staff.
Milwaukee – Riverside University High School in Milwaukee will be closed on Tuesday, September 2, due to a chemical spill that has raised safety concerns for students and staff. Parents were notified of the closure by Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS), which is taking precautions to guarantee the health and safety of its community.
While air quality tests conducted in the building after the spill have returned safe results, cleanup efforts are still in progress. A few classrooms will remain closed as the cleaning continues to ensure that the area is fully safe for occupied use. MPS has stated that staff members will still be required to report to work on Tuesday, even though students will not attend.
Students are expected to return to school on Wednesday, September 3, just a day after the pre-scheduled start of the school year for many Milwaukee Public Schools students. The incident, which occurred shortly before the beginning of the academic year, has prompted district officials to investigate the exact causes of the chemical spill.
The investigation has revealed that old science equipment, possibly containing mercury, may have contributed to the spill, raising further concerns about the condition of outdated materials within the school. MPS Deputy Superintendent Eduardo Galván has acknowledged the situation and expressed appreciation for the understanding and patience of students, staff, and families during this disruption.
The decision to close the school, although inconvenient to families expecting students to start their academic year, was made in the interest of safety. MPS aims to ensure that conditions are optimal before students return to the classroom environment. District officials are diligently working to resolve the issues resulting from the spill.
Background Information
Riverside University High School is part of the Milwaukee Public Schools district, which is preparing for the new school year. Typically, students would return on September 2, but this unforeseen incident has necessitated adjustments for the upcoming academic calendar. The focus remains on providing a safe environment conducive to learning for all students and staff.
Conclusion
As the situation continues to unfold, MPS is taking the necessary steps to keep the community informed and safe. The school district remains committed to ensuring the health and safety of all individuals within their facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Riverside High School closed?
A: Riverside University High School is closed due to a chemical spill that raised safety concerns.
Q: When will students return to school?
A: Students are expected to return to school on Wednesday, September 3.
Q: What caused the chemical spill?
A: Investigations suggest that old science equipment, possibly containing mercury, may have contributed to the spill.
Q: Are staff required to report to work during the closure?
A: Yes, staff members are still required to report to work on Tuesday, September 2.
Q: Are parents being informed about the situation?
A: Yes, parents received notifications from Milwaukee Public Schools about the school closure and ongoing cleanup.
Key Features of the Incident:
- Closure Date: September 2
- Return Date: September 3
- Possible Cause: Old scientific equipment with mercury
- Safety Measures: Air quality tests passed, ongoing clean-up
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Riverside University High School Closed Due to Chemical Spill
Additional Resources
- WISN: Chemical Spill Delays First Day of School
- Wikipedia: Chemical Spill
- TMJ4: Chemical Spill Closes School
- Google Search: Chemical Spill School Safety
- Fox6Now: Riverside University High School Closed
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mercury
- WUWMM: Milwaukee Students Back to School
- Google News: Riverside University High School
- Seehafer News: Chemical Spill Postpones Classes
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
