Superintendent Addresses Whittemore School Evacuation

WALTHAM, MA -- Emergency crews evacuated the Henry Whittemore Elementary School in Waltham early Tuesday morning after finding the building had high levels of carbon monoxide.

Several faculty members were in the building, but no children had yet arrived. Children were bussed to another school.

The following was sent to parents from Dr. Drew Echelson, superintendent of Waltham Public Schools, regarding evacuation of the Whittemore Elementary School:

At 7:45 a.m., we received reports of the smell of gas at the school. The school immediately called 911 and cleared the building. Emergency personnel were on hand immediately and the superintendent was at the school before 8 a.m.

Students were transported by bus from Whittemore to the McDevitt Middle School. The students were served breakfast and we will work to ensure instructional activities are implemented at school.

If you are a Whittemore parent we strongly suggest that you pick up your child at McDevitt as soon as possible. McDevitt Middle School is located at 75 Church Street.

Be assured that if you are not able to pick up your child/children, they will remain in class until the end of the day.

More communication is forthcoming as soon as we know more.

All students and staff are safe.

Photo via WHDH-TV Channel 7 News