RESERVE — Preliminary testing, school leaders said, by local and state agencies indicate there are no health risks for students or staff members attending or working at the Leon Godchaux Junior High campus in Reserve.

St. John the Baptist Parish Schools Superintendent Kevin George reiterated that point this week after expressing similar sentiment during last week’s School Board meeting.

Health concerns were raised this month when an East St. John Elementary School parent told a New Orleans television station her son came home after his first day of school itching with a possible case of hives.

East St. John Elementary students have been attending classes at the Godchaux campus since Aug. 31 after an Aug. 13 fire destroyed their regular campus.

George said the Louisiana Department of Health & Hospitals and local officials have conducted numerous tests at the facility.

“All preliminary indications are that there is nothing there (harmful) in the building,” George said.

“If I had any idea, inclination or hint that there was danger at that school site, there wouldn’t be kids there. That’s just the bottom line.

“All indications are that the building is safe. Unless we hear otherwise, the kids will continue to be there.”

George said he would share additional updates with the School Board and public when final test results are completed.

According to George, the school district did not receive any complaints when East St. John High School students used the facility in years past while their school was under construction.

School Board President Keith Jones said he first learned of the health issue concern while watching the news report, adding he is aware of no other complaints.