US Schools Dismiss Students Early After Utility Disruptions

Schools in Minnesota, Virginia and South Dakota dismissed students early after water-main problems or a potential gas leak disrupted operations. Alden-Conger Public Schools in Minnesota sent students home after a pipe broke during water-system work, leaving the building without running water; officials hoped to restore service before classes resumed after the break. Garden City Elementary in Roanoke also planned an early dismissal because of a nearby water-main break, while officials expected school to reopen the next day. At Douglas High School in South Dakota, students and staff were evacuated after a possible gas leak; gas service was shut off, and officials said there was no continuing threat to other schools or the community. The gas-related dismissal affected only the high school.