Several eighth-grade students at Saddle Ridge Elementary and Middle School in Walker County were hospitalized after consuming a substance called Kratom. School officials reported that emergency crews responded quickly and all students are now stable. Kratom, which has stimulant and opioid-like effects, is not approved by the FDA and poses serious health risks.

The Walker County Sheriff’s Office and the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force are investigating the situation after multiple students fell ill on Wednesday afternoon. Sheriff Steve Wilson stated the students consumed a “gummy”-type substance that caused their sickness. All students were taken to the hospital with their parents or guardians present.

Superintendent Damon Raines emphasized the importance of student safety and the effectiveness of the response from staff and emergency personnel. Officials are considering additional safety measures and educational programs to prevent similar incidents in the future.