Wellesley’s Schofield Elementary School students, teachers and other employees are breathing easier after steps have been taken to improve the air quality at the school.
Concerned Parents of Wellesley has passed along a note from Schofield’s PTO that details changes made to the school’s ventilation system. It reads in part:
“I am pleased to report Joe McDonough [director of facilities for Wellesley Public Schools] has worked magic and has brought in HVAC technicians who have completely reworked, readjusted, cleaned, installed filters, replaced parts and reassembled the univents in our classrooms. This was done throughout the 1993 wing, as well as the rest of the school. Why is this a big deal? Because mold, lethargy, headaches and increased exposure to airborne germs and illness are all symptoms of poor ventilation due to a poorly or non- operating ventilation system. FINALLY, after a decade of documented, subpar environmental health and air quality conditions at Schofield, the moisture and ventilation issues are actually being fixed! YAY!”
The state’s department health will be reviewing the changes and issuing a final report. A public session will be held regarding the issues, probably in January.
BACKGROUND: Indoor air quality study for Schofield Elementary School released this month
Unfortunately, it’s very common to have to wait so long before action is taken. I’ve heard too many similar stories while producing and directing the feature documentary Black Mold Exposure.