MILTON, VT – August 16, 2024 – Ongoing Assessment and Remediation Planning, How will the start of School be Impacted?
Extensive analysis of the areas that may be contributing to the presence of moisture within the building will continue. This includes the roof, windows, ducts and vents.The district has already made HVAC improvements, over the past four years, funded largely through COVID-related ESSER grants. This has helped mitigate the issue but have not eliminated it entirely.
Mold is a common part of our environment, present both indoors and outdoors. While it is often associated with damp or water-damaged areas, mold spores exist naturally in the air and on surfaces. Not all mold is harmful, and sensitivity to mold varies from person to person. Mold can grow quickly in areas where moisture is present, such as on ceiling tiles, wallboard, and sometimes HVAC components. It's important to manage moisture levels and address any water damage promptly to prevent mold growth and ensure a safe indoor environment.
Delayed Start of School for PreK-Grade 4
To allow time for the development and implementation of a remediation plan, MTSD is delaying the start of school for students in PreK through Grade 4. The new start date is Tuesday, September 3rd. This delay will allow the district to finalize the Learning Relocation Plan, which will outline the use of alternative learning spaces. This may include using the gymnasiums, mobile classrooms, or enclosed tents, etc. while remediation efforts are underway.
Upcoming Family Meetings
The district will hold meetings for families, by grade, during the week of August 26th to discuss the return to school and the logistics of the Learning Relocation Plan. These meetings will be conducted by grade level and will provide an opportunity for parents and guardians to ask questions and receive detailed information about classroom relocations, including which spaces will be used for educational purposes during the remediation process.
Next Steps
MTSD is working closely with our remediation vendor, who will be on-site on Thursday, August 22nd, to finalize a remediation protocol. The district will communicate the details of this plan to families on Friday, August 23rd.
In the meantime, the district will continue to investigate potential sources of moisture within the building, including the roof, windows, ducts, and vents.
Milton Town School District is committed to providing detailed updates and information around the remediation to families and our community, please follow us on social media and our website for updates and developments regarding the remediation and the Learning Relocation Plan.
About Milton Town School District
Through inclusive and reflective practices, the Milton School Community empowers all members to be resilient and passionate learners who are engaged locally and globally.
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