‘Abnormalities’ discovered at Monessen school
Additional details won’t be released until testing is completed today.
Air quality testing began Saturday at Monessen City School District’s middle/high school after discoveries of “abnormalities” in the building’s walls.
Several issues arose while conducting routine maintenance at the district’s facilities ahead of the scheduled start of school Aug. 25, according to Superintendent Dr. Robert Motte.
“Official test results are pending,” Motte told the Mon Valley Independent. “Student and staff safety remains our highest priority, and work is actively underway to ensure the facility is completely safe and ready for the upcoming school year.”
The district’s director of facilities observed an abnormality in a wall near the gymnasium concession stand on July 28, according to a release from Motte. Additional abnormalities were identified as the area was further inspected.
The investigation was immediately stopped, the affected areas secured and sealed to prevent access and district administrators were notified. Several similar abnormalities were discovered behind walls in restroom areas, and the same precautionary measures were taken.
Administrators contacted a professional environmental restoration and assessment company July 29 to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the building, which they did Aug. 3. The air quality testing will continue through today, with the school remaining closed during that time.
Once the results are received and reviewed, the district will determine the next steps, including whether the building can be safely opened for students and staff as scheduled or whether a delayed start to school may be necessary to complete any required remediation.
Motte said the abnormality identified by district staff is a “localized environmental concern,” and said they cannot identify what it is until testing is complete.
Questions and concerns should be addressed to Motte’s office at 724-684-3600 or rmotte@monessensd.org.
The school board will hold a voting meeting at 6 p.m. today.
