RIH Schools
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Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District  
Final Update on Indian Hills Incident
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Dear Parents/Guardians, 

As you know from earlier communications, we had an accidental spill of acid (hydrochloric) in one of our chemistry labs just prior to the start of classes this morning.  The chemical was immediately neutralized by the teacher using baking soda. We immediately evacuated the wing of the building (all students and faculty) in which the spill occurred and all ventilators were shut down in the building. There were no injuries.  We had local fire departments and the Bergen County HazMat Unit on scene to assess the situation. Based upon air samples taken throughout the morning, we were able to resume the normal class schedule with the 100 and 200 wings being relocated to alternate locations in our facility while the spill was cleaned by a certified hazmat discharge cleanup organization. We have received clearance this afternoon that all areas of our building are now safe for classes to resume in their regularly scheduled classrooms.

We are very thankful for the wonderful emergency teams who responded to our school this morning. Our school administrators and our District Security Coordinator did an outstanding job of handling this situation. Of course, student and staff health and security is our highest priority and we are so thankful that everyone worked together this morning keep everyone safe.

Again, thank you for your patience and cooperation today.

Best regards,
Beverly MacKay
Superintendent of Schools