17 students hospitalized in Roosevelt charter school chemical release
Officials said the substance dispersed when a children’s chemistry kit was opened, sending powder into the air inside the classroom.
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Seventeen fifth-grade students were sent to the hospital on Wednesday after calcium hydroxide powder was released into a classroom, according to the Nassau County Fire Marshal.
Officials said the substance dispersed when a children’s chemistry kit was opened, sending powder into the air inside the classroom.
Just after it happened, several students complained of irritation, officials said. Fire officials noted that calcium hydroxide can act as a mild irritant when it comes into contact with the skin, eyes, or airways.
More than a dozen affected students were sent to the Nassau University Medical Center.
Nassau County police confirmed they are investigating the incident at a school located at 200 W. Centennial Ave. in Roosevelt, where officers responded at approximately 12:10 p.m.
The Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Hazardous Materials Response Team remained on scene to assess the substance and the chemistry kit involved.
News 12 has reached out to the charter school and is waiting to hear back.
