Jackson R-2 continues classes despite natural gas outage affecting area

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

JACKSON, Mo., (KBSI) — The Jackson R-2 School District said classes and services continued as scheduled despite a natural gas outage affecting customers in Jackson, Fruitland and Gordonville, including several school buildings.

District officials said school nutrition teams responded quickly to ensure meals could still be served to students across the district.

Two school buildings operate fully on electric systems and were not affected by the outage, while several others that use both gas and electric equipment were able to continue meal service with minimal adjustments. In buildings that rely more heavily on natural gas, menus were temporarily modified to include items such as sandwiches, wraps and prepackaged foods to avoid service disruptions.

District leaders said the Jackson R-2 food service director has been in contact with the local health department and that all food safety procedures remain in place. Dishwashers in the district are equipped with booster heaters that allow them to reach proper sanitizing temperatures, ensuring dishes can continue to be cleaned safely.

Support services staff also took additional steps to maintain a safe learning environment during the outage. Custodial teams placed extra hand sanitizer stations throughout school buildings and cafeterias, while maintenance crews checked air conditioning systems to ensure they were operating properly.

District officials said they will continue working to maintain a safe and effective learning environment for students, teachers and staff while the community navigates the outage.

Families with questions can contact the district at 573-243-9501.