Tri-Valley school set to reopen after mold problem

Posted on September 11, 2015
Tri-Valley Elementary School
Tri-Valley students have been unable to take classes at the elementary school because of mold. (Photo courtesy Facebook/Molly Barr)

By Eric Stock

DOWNS – Tri-Valley school officials say grade school students will be able to return to their school next Tuesday after a mold problem forced them to share space at the middle school and high school.

Superintendent David Mouser said the mold stemmed from a problem with the school’s HVAC system. The school installed new pumps and controls and contracted for a thorough cleaning of the entire facility in the last three weeks.

“I want to express my thanks to our staff, teachers, students and parents. The way in which everyone handled this situation and the inconvenience it caused was nothing short of phenomenal,” Mouser said. “Our focus was on maintaining a positive learning environment while we resolved the problems. Our teachers and administrative team coordinated a seamless transition for students to start school and they have done the same for the transition back to the elementary school.”

Students have been unable to take classes at the grade school since the first day of school on Aug. 19.

Several student groups, parents and Downs Fire Department volunteers will be moving classrooms at 8 a.m. Saturday so classes can resume at the elementary school.

“We are grateful for the outpouring of support and are humbled by the requests to offer assistance,” Mouser said.

Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].

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