Hoggard High School shuts down cafeteria for testing after ceiling discoloration

WILMINGTON, N.C. — New Hanover County Schools is temporarily closing the cafeteria at Hoggard High School after a staff member noticed an area of discoloration on the kitchen ceiling.

Superintendent Dr. Christopher Barnes shared the update with Hoggard staff and families Friday as the district continues to address previously identified indoor air quality concerns in the school’s Arts/NJROTC Wing.

Because the cafeteria is located near that area, Barnes said the district is closing it as a precaution while testing is conducted.

“As soon as the concern was identified, we immediately sent the area for testing and are taking every necessary step to determine whether there is an actual issue,” Barnes wrote.

Because of the Labor Day weekend, test results are not expected before Tuesday.

Barnes said the cafeteria will remain closed until the district receives enough information to determine it is safe to reopen.

The district is working through the weekend to finalize plans for providing meals to students while the cafeteria is closed.

Principal Tony Hudson is expected to contact families over the weekend with more information about meal service and what students can expect when they return to school.

Barnes said the district will continue working with qualified professionals and provide updates as more information becomes available.