Mold forces students out of ceremics room

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Mold forces students out of ceremics room

Thursday, September 27, 2007

The Trenton Times, NJ*

http://www.nj.com/news/times/regional/index.ssf?/base/news-

10/1190866282132220.xml & coll=5

HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP -- Mold discovered Friday in the ce ramics room at

Hopewell Valley Central High School was removed while students were

temporarily re located to an adjoining art room, officials announced

this week.

Students were able to return to the room Monday.

The mold was found under sinks in three work stations in the 1,248-

square-foot room. Officials believe improperly installed sinks and

the installation of regular gyp sum wallboard instead of moisture-

resistant or masonry-based board are to blame.

The room was built in 2003.

District custodians treated the affected areas with a bleach solu

tion Friday before demolishing the plywood countertops and base

cabinets nearest the sinks.

All work stations will be replaced, officials said.

Officials are considering replac ing the sink areas with a one-piece

stainless steel sink countertop, as well as other materials designed

to repel water. The new sinks will be deeper and larger, making them

more appropriate for the room activities, said Norman Torkelson, di

rector of facilities.

The room has about 150 stu dents pass through it daily.

Students temporarily displaced by the installation of new cabinets

and sinks will meet for classes in unoccupied art rooms or

classrooms, Principal Mike Daher said.

The mold was discovered by ce ramics teacher Pat Arbitell.