A Glencoe elementary school is still closed because of concerns over mould in classrooms. Officials with the Thames Valley District School Board notified parents Tuesday that Ekcoe Central Public School would be closed until it is free of mould.
On Wednesday, parents were told that students would start attending classes at Glencoe District Secondary School on Friday.
"The Thames Valley District School Board is committed to ensuring that Ekcoe Central Public School is a safe learning and working environment for students, staff and the Glencoe community," the Board says in a notice to parents. "As such, it is important to allow TVDSB Facilities Services staff and independent consultants as much time as necessary to ensure the school is thoroughly remediated before it is reopened."
The mould was first discovered by staff in late August. Since then, environmental consultants, professional cleaners and school board staff have worked to clean the school and remove the mould. However, the board said earlier this week “evidence of substances that may promote the growth of mould were found Tuesday morning after a thorough review by board staff, environmental consultants and teacher union representatives.”
The mould, called Cladosporium, is a common surface species typically found on grass and soil.
According to the school board, "Ekcoe students and staff will occupy dedicated areas of the high school and staff from both schools will ensure that students are fully supervised at all times. Additional supervision will be provided, along with separate washrooms for Ekcoe students."
