Students return after gas leak at Jefferson City middle school

Staff and students at Lewis and Clark Middle School in Jefferson City had to leave the building just before 7 a.m.Tuesday when a gas odor was detected.

“Upon arrival to school, students were directed to the football field where they gathered in grade levels with advisory teachers,” said Jefferson City Public Schools spokesperson Amy Berendzen. “Parents were notified before any other notifications were distributed.”

The Jefferson City Fire Department and Ameren UE discovered a gas valve in a science classroom that appeared to have been accidentally bumped, causing the odor.

An hour later, the all-clear was announced and students returned to class by 8:30 a.m.