Upton said that, while there was a possibility that some buildings have suffered structural damage, most issues appeared to be focused on the “building envelope,” meaning the exterior areas such as stucco walls and door and window casements. Our most recent test was conducted this past weekend.” Testing over spring break has provided reassurance that there is not a current health threat to students and staff occupying and using the campus. While mold may be present within the walls, without a pathway to exposure, it is not a health hazard. “Testing for environmental hazards involves testing surfaces and air indoors to compare with readings for outdoors. We have remediated problem areas as they have been discovered and continue to engage a certified industrial hygienist to conduct air and surface testing for potential mold and other environmental concerns,” Drati wrote in his letter, dated May 17. “We want to assure all parents and staff that we take the health and safety of students and staff at school seriously. SMMUSD shared the report, dated April 22, along with a letter from Superintendent Ben Drati stating there was no danger to students currently attending classes on the campus. The extensive and severe water damage, combined with suspected insect damage and dry rot, could cause the displacement of some of the nearly 600 students enrolled at the 5th Street campus in Ocean Park as early as next school year as the District rushes to investigate and remediate issues recently discovered on campus.Ī combination of “poor construction practices, age and exposure, deferred maintenance, and defective or inappropriate installation of materials, including during relatively recent repair or remediation work” was the most likely culprit, according to a 131-page findings report by DTR Consulting Services, Inc., commissioned by the SMMUSD. After years of water intrusion issues at the John Muir Elementary / Santa Monica Alternative School House (SMASH) campus - “a little leak here, a little leak there,” according to SMMUSD Chief Operations Officer Carey Upton - came the deluge: a new damage report released on Tuesday afternoon shows the campus is in need of immediate repair due to years of unresolved water damage.
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