District mulls second look at health hazards

August 2, 2005

New test for Verde?

By Maeshiro, Staff Writer

Los Angeles Newspaper Group

LANCASTER -- Lancaster School District officials are considering

taking a second look at possible health hazards at Verde

School, where staff members have complained of a variety of

illnesses.

District trustees are considering hiring for a second time a firm

that earlier this year tested the school's indoor air quality, but

found nothing that could be linked to cancer, respiratory ailments

or other health problems that staffers have reported, district

officials said.

In a second round of testing, Forensic Analytical would test water

that comes out discolored from school faucets as well as look for

mold.

" We are doing a little extra testing at Verde. We want to make

sure the staff is fully satisfied with all the testing we've done, "

Superintendent Steve Gocke said.

The board will meet today to consider paying up to $17,200 to the

company to investigate mold, sample tap water, and do other studies.

" We've had some rain that causes mold to happen so we had to do some

extra testing. We wanted to sample water just because we want to

make sure we cover everything, " Gocke said.

Staffers complain that water coming out of taps is brown.

While Forensic Analytical did not find any dangerous environmental

contaminants in its first study, the company did recommend gutting

and rebuilding the library, which was closed in the spring after the

winter rains, as well as improving air circulation in some rooms.

" The library we had to shut down because the air quality tested too

heavy for occupancy. That means that there's a potential for mold, "

Gocke said.

The firm also proposes to investigate areas of water damage,

including stained ceiling tiles, affected wall areas, such as in the

cafeteria and associated rooms, and carpet areas, such as those

below drinking-water dispensers.

Maeshiro, (661) 267-5744 karen.maeshiro@...

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