Toxic chemical levels causes school closure in Monroe

MONROE, Wash. – Concerns about a toxic chemical caused part of an alternative high school in Monroe to close.

KOMO-TV reported that part of Sky Valley Education Center closed on Wednesday after there was a false-positive reading that showed abnormally high levels of PCBs at the school. Seven different areas in the school were closed, keeping staff and students out.

Superintendent Fredrika Smith says subsequent tests showed no detectible levels of PCBs, but more tests are being performed.

A letter to parents said the school is working with the Snohomish County Health District to further test the spaces, which will be closed until results are in.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, PCBs have been shown to cause a variety of health problems.