The Greater Amsterdam School District recently discovered mold in two areas of the Lynch Literacy Academy building and is working with experts to ensure a clean and safe learning environment moving forward.
District administration was notified Sept. 5 that mold was discovered in the LLA library, prompting the immediate closure of the library to students and staff as a precaution until air quality testing is complete. Subsequently, on Sept. 7, mold was discovered in the school’s cafeteria.
The district is taking the following measures to address the situation:
- Mold Remediation: Replacing moldy ceiling tiles and initiating a comprehensive cleaning of all affected surfaces.
- Professional Cleaning: Securing a professional cleaning company to thoroughly clean both the library and cafeteria areas to ensure the complete removal of any mold spores.
- Consultation with Health Authorities: Working closely with local and state health departments to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to effectively address the issue. The priority is to maintain a cool and dry environment in these areas.
A specialist will be evaluating the areas Monday, Sept. 11, to determine when the cafeteria and library may be open for use. In the meantime, students will eat lunch in their classrooms, and the kitchen is still able to operate so students may still purchase meals.
Moving forward, GASD is committed to preventing such incidents from occurring again. The following measures will be implemented:
- Regular Maintenance: The school district will institute a rigorous and proactive maintenance schedule to promptly address any potential issues with the HVAC systems.
- Monitoring and Testing: Routine monitoring and mold testing will be conducted to identify any signs of mold growth at its earliest stages.
- Staff and Student Health: Continuing to prioritize the health and well-being of the students and staff, ensuring that any environmental concerns are addressed promptly.
“We understand the importance of providing a safe and healthy learning environment for our students and staff and are dedicated to taking all necessary steps to achieve this,” Superintendent Richard Ruberti said. “We appreciate the patience and understanding of our school community during this process, and we will keep you updated as we receive more information.”