By: Valerie Newton
Elizabethtown, NC – Bladen County School officials confirm that several bats have recently been spotted on the campus of West Bladen High School. Last week, a custodian at the school noticed a bat flying around both gyms. For safety reasons, the gyms were closed to students and staff.District officials are actively exploring options to determine the number of bats, how they have entered the building, when they can be removed, and how they can be removed.
The school district has consulted with County health officials, an animal control company,and wildlife experts. Bladen County Health Department staff, along with Bladen school district officials, West Bladen administration, wildlife removal crews and animal control officers met at the school Friday morning, to discuss what the best plan was to solve the problem.
Several bats have been removed from the school between Friday and Monday by wildlife officials. Animal control officers are working to seal off any entry points. No other bats have been seen in the building since Monday evening.
“Right now, we’re going to go back over the school several times, and just make sure all those access points are closed off,” said Valerie Newton, school district spokesperson.
As a precaution, the County health department is testing the removed bats for any potential health risks.
“We assure everyone that the health and safety of our students and staff are priorities as we find the best solution to dealing with the situation. We are also committed to keeping West Bladen parents fully informed at all time,” Robert Taylor, superintendent of Bladen County Schools stated.
As of Tuesday morning, the County health department has asked the school to close both gyms until lab tests are complete. Results from the lab are expected to be received by the end of this week.
In addition, a team of key Maintenance, Custodial, Environmental, and School personnel will continue to assess and monitor the campus to prevent any further intrusions.
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