ARLINGTON, Va. — The discovery of an unconscious student at Wakefield High School prompted an early release from classes Tuesday, and a drug overdose investigation.
According to a letter for families from Wakefield principal Dr. Chris Wilmore, a student was found unconscious in a bathroom Tuesday morning. Staff called for medical assistance and the student was taken to an area hospital for help by EMS.
Arlington Police later identified the student as a teen boy, who is in critical condition, and said four other students were evaluated by medics at the school.
Students were held in their second-period classes after the teen was found as the Arlington County Police Department investigated the incident.
In a second letter to parents, Wilmore told families students would be dismissed at 12:30 p.m. and all after-school and evening activities are canceled. Students were provided with a grab-and-go lunch as well.
Parents who are concerned about their children were advised to contact their child's school counselor, the school psychologist or the school social worker.
"We are both stunned and saddened to hear the tragic news of a possible student overdose at Wakefield High School," parent advocacy group Arlington Parents for Education said in a statement. "We hope that the significance of today’s events involving drug use at school highlights the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of our students going forward."
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, help is available and there are numerous treatment resources available in Arlington.
The former president of the Arlington Education Association (AEA) has been accused of embezzling more than $400,000 from the organization.
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