Investigating and Remediating Mold in Public Schools

Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed.

It is impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors. Children are especially vulnerable to toxic mold. Their immune systems are not yet fully developed; they have sensitive skin; and their organs are not yet mature enough to filter out toxins.

Toxic mold in classrooms and school buildings can trigger manyhealth problems, such mold asthma and mold allergies in many children, as well as skin rashes, headaches, dizziness, and possibly even learning disabilities. Unfortunately, the first signs of mold contamination in a school building might be the medical symptoms of those who work and attend classes there.

Something seemed to be growing inside a first-grade classroom at Middle Township Elementary School No. 1. And it wasn’t the 6-year-olds who sit at the desks. According to parents, a serious mold problem seemed to inhabit the classroom. Toys, glue sticks, and even the American flag, new in September, had mold growing on it, said classroom parents.

According to school Superintendent Michael Kopakowski, “We did have reports that something was going on. We’re not sure if it was HVAC-related or not.” In the meantime, the school custodial staff found themselves at school on Sat., Dec. 3. Not so fast, say some parents. According to them, there’s a mold problem in the building. Kopakowski said having a mold problem this late in the year is very unusual. He said that normally, mold problems occur in the heat and humidity of August, when the school is shut up tight.

When the Herald called Cape May County Health Department, it was told that mold problems are investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Every classroom in the school has been outfitted with a portable dehumidifier, said the employee. Photographs provided to the Herald show mold growing in a classroom dehumidifier.

Read more about School Mold Concerns Irk Middle Parents at: Capemaycountyherald.com

Parents of school-aged children should be alert for signs of mold contamination in the school building. Look for signs of black mold staining areas of the ceiling or walls, especially in bathrooms and basements. Be alert to the musty odor of mildew in carpeted areas, coat closets, and gymnasiums, which might indicate hidden mold. Look for evidence of water damage or water leaks anywhere in the building.

Older school buildings are more likely to have damage that might result in mold. School mobile units or portable classrooms are often less protected against the elements and may be more susceptible to water damage and resultant mold. School buildings that have withstood tornadoes, hurricanes, flooding, or other natural disastersshould be closely inspected for water damage and mold.

If your school-aged child has these symptoms, ask him or her whether the symptoms get worse after they arrive at school and better when they return home. Notice whether symptoms improve during school vacations or holidays away from the school building. If symptoms are serious or resulting in the child missing school, talk to your physician about the possibility of mold allergies.

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