By Brendan Coyne
The Valley Central heard concerns about its asbestos abatement program at Walden Elementary School during its August 21 meeting.
Nancy Phelps, a teacher at Walden Elementary School, spoke during the public comment segment of the meeting. She wants to be assured that the asbestos abatement program is comprehensive.
Phelps said she sent an email in July to Superintendent Yvette Avila, Principal Gregory Heidemann and Greg Warren, head custodian at Walden Elementary School.
“I have no way to protect myself or my students from exposure to asbestos, other than holding you to the highest level of safety,” Phelps said.
She asked if there would be air testing prior to the opening of school.
“Let’s not let safety be pushed to the wayside in order to start classes on September 5,” she concluded.
School Board President Joseph Bond said the situation is under control.
“Asbestos abatement is very common during school construction projects and highly regulated by the New York State Department of Labor,” Bond said in a statement issued Monday. “The District contracts with licensed asbestos removal companies and air monitoring consultants to ensure that all appropriate procedures and regulations are followed.
Abatement areas are completely contained and the air is continuously monitored and tested throughout the removal process. For more information please contact the New York State Department of Labor.”
The board will meet on August 31 for a retreat. Its next regular meeting is September 11.