September 3, 2025

Riverside University High School Closure Due to Chemical Spill

Milwaukee, September 3, 2025

News Summary

Riverside University High School in Milwaukee will remain closed on September 2 following a mercury chemical spill from old science equipment. Students are expected to return on September 3 after cleanup efforts and safety inspections are completed. Milwaukee Public Schools confirmed that while staff will report to work during the closure, some classrooms may remain closed for precautionary measures. Investigations into the cause of the spill are ongoing, with an emphasis on maintaining safety and health standards.

Milwaukee

Riverside University High School will remain closed on September 2 due to a chemical spill, with students expected to return to school on September 3. Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) communicated the closure in a letter to parents, urging that students should not report to campus on Tuesday.

The announcement was made by MPS Deputy Superintendent Eduardo Galván, who indicated that the delay was necessary to ensure safe conditions for students and staff. Clean-up efforts are currently underway, although some classrooms will remain closed as a precaution. MPS stated that air quality tests conducted after the spill yielded satisfactory results, indicating that the premises are safe for students to return.

Investigations are ongoing to understand the cause of the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that old science equipment containing mercury could have played a role in the spill. The specifics surrounding the release of the chemical have not been disclosed, but MPS is committed to ensuring that all safety protocols are strictly adhered to during this period.

While students will not be in attendance on September 2, school staff are still expected to report to work. This requirement underscores the importance of maintaining operations and managing the continuity of school services, despite the closure for students.

This incident impacts Riverside University High School’s start of the academic year, as it was initially planned to begin classes on September 2, in accordance with the schedule of most other schools in the Milwaukee district. The closure creates a brief disruption in the return to school routine, which is already a critical time for both students and parents as they prepare for a new year of learning.

Background of the Spill

Riverside University High School authorities are taking the matter seriously as a chemical spill can have significant implications for school safety and health. Mercury, a hazardous substance often found in older scientific equipment, poses various health risks when exposed. In light of this, the MPS has committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine exactly what occurred and how such incidents can be avoided in the future.

As schools across Milwaukee continue preparations for the upcoming academic year, parent concerns regarding safety and procedures are paramount. The ongoing investigation and remediation efforts are aimed at reassuring parents and students that the school environment remains a priority. MPS will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available regarding the cleanup and safety measures in place.

For now, families affected by the delay may need to adjust their schedules slightly to accommodate the school’s reopening on September 3.

FAQs

Why is Riverside University High School closed on September 2?

The school is closed due to a chemical spill involving mercury from old science equipment, and safety protocols require the closure for cleanup and investigations.

When will students return to school?

Students are expected to return to school on September 3.

What safety measures are being taken following the spill?

Clean-up efforts are ongoing, and air quality tests conducted after the spill have shown satisfactory results. Some classrooms will remain closed until they are deemed safe.

Will staff be required to work during the closure?

Yes, school staff are required to report to work on September 2, despite the closure for students.

Chart: Key Features of Riverside University High School Incident

Date	Event	Impact	Safety Measures
September 2	School Closure Due to Chemical Spill	Delay in school year start; students do not report	Cleanup ongoing; air quality tests passed
September 3	Scheduled School Reopening	Students return to classes; some classrooms still closed	Investigation into cause ongoing