PHILIPPI – Philip Barbour High School is closed today as a safety precaution due to paint fumes, officials said.

The following was posted to social media by Barbour County schools Wednesday morning:

“Philip Barbour High School students will be on a non-traditional learning day for today due to unforeseen circumstances. All staff will report to the library at PMS (Philippi Middle School). Students will need to complete assignments remotely on their Chromebooks.”

Barbour Superintendent of Schools Eddie Benson has been quoted in published reports as saying that today’s closing is a precaution to protect students and staff from paint fumes created by the recent staining of the school’s gym floor.