NeSmith Elementary School in Community ISD was closed on Wednesday following a gas leak that caused apparent illnesses among students and staff, according to officials.
The incident occurred early in the morning, prompting school authorities to evacuate the building immediately. Emergency responders were called to the scene to contain the situation.
"We had reports of gas odor coming from inside the school premises," said a spokesperson for Community ISD. "As soon as we received these reports, we took immediate action and evacuated everyone out of caution."
Subsequently, several students and staff members reported experiencing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. They were treated by medical personnel who arrived at the location after being alerted about what had happened.
It is yet unclear what type of gas leaked or how it started. However, authorities have confirmed that there is no danger to neighboring buildings or residents.
"Our priority right now is ensuring everyone's safety," said the spokesperson. "We are working with local authorities to investigate this matter thoroughly."
Meanwhile, parents have been advised not to send their children back until further notice while clean-up operations continue on site.
This news comes amid growing concerns over school safety across Texas since many schools were forced shut last year during winter power outages caused by an unprecedented storm that hit many parts of Texas hard.