Richmond, California — A Bay Area high school will remain closed indefinitely after environmental testing detected tetrachloroethylene (PCE) vapors on campus, prompting school officials to halt all access while state inspectors determine whether the site is safe for students and staff.
The unexpected closure comes just as families prepare for the start of the new academic year, leaving many wondering when students will be able to return to classrooms.
Toxic Vapor Detected During Environmental Testing
According to the West Contra Costa Unified School District (WCCUSD), Kennedy High School in Richmond, California, was closed after vapor testing identified elevated levels of tetrachloroethylene (PCE) on the campus.
District officials said the decision followed preliminary environmental testing and was made before students returned for the new school year…