RRES students sent home due to a gas leak

RIO RANCHO — Rio Rancho Elementary School's community was notified that students were being released early Thursday, Jan. 9, and that school Friday, Jan. 10, is cancelled due to a gas leak. RRES is the only elementary school being affected by the gas leak.

RRES staff will stay on campus until the all students return home safely. The email also mentioned at SAFE, the before- and after-school program, is cancelled.

"Earlier today, some staff members noticed a faint natural gas odor in a few classrooms," said RRPS in the email notification to parents. "After an inspection of the school’s gas line, a leak was discovered outside, and the school's gas was promptly shut off so a repair could be made. Crews are actively working on completing the repair right now, but they anticipate that it could take several hours."

RRES is asking parents to pick up their students and that buses are at the school and "will transport bus riders home who do not have a ride from parents or guardians."

The email also mentioned that once the repair is completed, it will go through city of Rio Rancho inspection.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this has caused, but appreciate your understanding and patience. The heating system in our school cannot operate without gas, and we feel that this is a necessary step to protect the well-being of our students as we are facing particularly cold days today and tomorrow. We will notify you of any changes that occur," the email finished.