A "significant sewage blockage" shut down Riverwood International Charter School in Sandy Springs on Tuesday, sending high schoolers back to their laptops as the building closed and classes shifted to virtual learning for the day.
Students were instructed to work from home while teachers posted lessons and communicated through the school’s online platforms. All after-school activities and athletic events were also canceled while crews tackled the plumbing problem.
Parents forwarded the school’s notification email to Channel 2 Action News, which reported the closure early Tuesday and said it has asked Fulton County Schools for additional details, according to WSB-TV.
School Message and Logistics
In the message sent to families, Principal Kindra Smith told parents and students that the school was dealing with a major sewage issue and would not be able to open on Tuesday.
"Our maintenance team is working diligently to resolve the issue, and we will keep you informed regarding the status of the building," Smith wrote.
Teachers were directed to connect with students through the Canvas system, and Riverwood halted after-school and sporting events while maintenance worked to clear the blockage, WSB-TV reported.
About Riverwood
Riverwood is an International Baccalaureate high school in the Fulton County School System located in Sandy Springs, according to Riverwood International Charter School. The school’s website lists Kindra Smith as principal and provides a main office number, 470-254-1980, for families who need assistance or have questions.
Infrastructure Interruptions and Remote Learning
When restrooms, water lines or sewer systems are knocked out, districts often move instruction online because they cannot guarantee basic sanitation or food service in the building. In March, for example, the Caddo Parish Public Schools system kept most campuses on virtual instruction after a major water main break weakened water pressure across Shreveport.
What Families Should Do
Riverwood families are being told to keep an eye on Canvas and official school communications for updates on classes and the building’s status. Those who need help or have concerns are advised to contact the school’s main office.
According to the school, maintenance crews are working to fix the sewage blockage and will notify families once the building is cleared to reopen.
