New Jersey Elementary School Closed for Mold: Parents Struggle with Relocation
In Freehold Township, New Jersey, the start of the school year has been overshadowed by a significant issue at Laura Donovan Elementary School. Mold discovered over the summer has forced the school to close its doors, leaving students and parents scrambling for solutions. Here’s a detailed look at the situation and its impact on local families.
Mold Forces Closure at Laura Donovan Elementary
Laura Donovan Elementary has been hit hard by a mold problem that has emerged just before the new academic year. District officials reported that the mold was discovered during routine summer inspections. Despite efforts to address the issue, remediation work is ongoing and won’t be completed in time for the first day of school.
Immediate Impact on Students and Families
- Classroom Relocation: Students will be relocated to other schools within the district. This means adjustments not just for the students but also for their families.
- Ongoing Remediation: The remediation process is intensive, with work being conducted seven days a week to tackle the problem. However, the process is expected to take several months.
Parent Reactions and Adjustments
The unexpected closure has left many parents grappling with changes to their routines and plans. Here’s how local families are adapting:
Challenges Faced by Parents
- Regina Lopez’s Dilemma: Regina’s daughter, Ariana Velazquez, was set to start fifth grade at Laura Donovan Elementary. The sudden change has created additional stress as Ariana tries to adjust to a new school environment.
- Lisa Tremarco’s Concerns: Lisa, who usually walks her children to school, now faces the challenge of arranging bus transportation for her kids. With her children now attending different schools, she’s uncertain about how to manage this new arrangement.
Lisa’s Struggle: “My fifth grader had kindergarten COVID ruined, first grade ruined. And now she starts fifth grade like this,” Lisa said, highlighting the additional disruption her children have faced.
District’s Response to the Situation
Freehold Township School District has assured parents that they are doing everything possible to minimise disruption. Here’s how the district is managing the situation:
- Available Classroom Space: The district’s student numbers have decreased from a high of 4,500 to around 3,400. This reduction has allowed for flexibility in accommodating students from Laura Donovan Elementary in other schools.
- Expert Involvement: Engineers have been engaged to identify the cause of the mold to ensure effective remediation and prevent future issues.
Long-Term Plans and Considerations
The relocation is expected to last several months, with ongoing updates from the district as the situation evolves. Here’s what families can expect:
What’s Next for Laura Donovan Elementary
- Remediation Timeline: The district has not specified a precise end date for the remediation, but they are working diligently to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
- Future Precautions: Efforts will be made to ensure that such issues are prevented in the future, with regular inspections and maintenance.
Advice for Affected Families
Here are some practical tips for parents navigating this unexpected situation:
- Stay Informed: Keep up with communications from the school district for updates on the remediation progress and any changes to the relocation plans.
- Adapt to New Routines: Plan and prepare for new transportation arrangements and adjust daily routines to accommodate the changes.
- Support Your Children: Provide emotional support to help your children adjust to the new school environment and any additional challenges they may face.
Conclusion
The closure of Laura Donovan Elementary due to mold has undoubtedly created a challenging situation for students and parents in Freehold Township. While the district works on remediation and relocation plans, families must adapt to new arrangements and continue supporting their children through these disruptions.
If you’re a parent affected by this situation, remember that the district is committed to resolving the issue as swiftly as possible. In the meantime, staying informed and prepared can help ease the transition for your family.
