Syracuse Charter School Reopens After CO Leak

An empty classroom

Photo: Getty Images

Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School is reopening today (January 22) after a carbon monoxide leak earlier this month led to its temporary closure. The leak, caused by a faulty food warmer, resulted in several people being hospitalized and the tragic death of a staff member, Brian Deforge. The school has since undergone extensive safety upgrades, including the installation of a new hardwired and monitored carbon monoxide detection system.

Parents were invited to tour the school on Tuesday (January 21) to review the completed safety measures and certifications from contractors and inspectors. The school had been closed since Wednesday (January 8) when firefighters discovered high levels of carbon monoxide. Twelve adults were evaluated, and five were hospitalized with symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure.

The school was required to install additional carbon monoxide alarms and obtain a kitchen equipment safety certification before reopening. The Syracuse police are investigating Deforge’s death, but no official cause has been released.

School officials emphasized their commitment to student and staff safety, and counselors will be available to support those affected by the incident. Classes had been conducted online during the closure, but students are now returning to in-person learning.


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