Ohrenberger Elementary School to be closed temporarily for mold removal

WEST ROXBURY - The William Ohrenberger Elementary School at 175 West Boundary Road will be closed for the remainder of this week in order to remove carpeting affected by mold spores.

This morning, BPS officials received laboratory results indicating the presence of mold in a limited number of classrooms on the first floor of the building. Boston Public Schools staff had been working throughout the summer to disinfect carpeting, and earlier tests had indicated that the efforts had been successful in removing all mold spores. Upon receiving today's report, Superintendent Thomas W. Payzant announced that he would close the school through Friday, September 12, in order to remove all carpeting from the building as a precautionary measure.

In a letter sent home to parents today, Dr. Payzant and Principal Carol Geyer wrote, "We assure you that we will act swiftly and thoroughly in order to ensure the health and safety of all students and staff."

Parents have been asked to keep their children home from school tomorrow through Friday. Students will not be penalized for these excused absences. The letter to parents included a list of nearby community centers with daytime activities.

In the presence of certain types of mold, some people may experience allergic reactions or respiratory problems. A team of City officials, including John Auerbach, Executive Director of the Boston Public Health Commission, will work with BPS staff to disinfect the building and prevent recurrence.

School and district officials have scheduled a parent meeting tomorrow night to address any questions or concerns: Wednesday, September 10, at 7:00 p.m. in the adjacent Ohrenberger Community Center. Parents also may call the parent hotline at 617-635-9046.