In the wake of some news publications regarding the Deerfield High School facility, I wanted to inform District 113 parents/guardians of the facts so that the community is apprised of key information. First, it is essential that I share that according to reports received from multiple building/environmental experts, Deerfield High School was and is safe for occupation and utilization.

On May 16^th, an industrial hygienist with the Illinois Department of Labor conducted an inspection of Deerfield High School regarding “possible mold exposure” as reported to them by a staff member. The Department of Labor follow-up report stated that, “During the walk around inspection there were no apparent safety or health hazards identified and there were no safety or health violations cited.”

The firm Bureau Veritas also conducted extensive tests at Deerfield High School in April. At the close of the school  year, we received their report which indicated that in the majority of the areas tested, there was no visible mold. The report stated that, “the only mold growth observed” was on a few dry ceiling tiles. These tiles have been replaced according to recommended guidelines. Furthermore, the report stated that “No gross accumulations of visible particulate were observed in the occupied spaces evaluated that would suggest a lack of housekeeping.”

Bureau Veritas recommended that we do an extensive cleaning in some school areas (for instance, the counseling offices) which will include vacuuming the ceiling. This cleaning will take place over the summer. Experts also recommended that we continue to address moisture intrusion issues that have resulted from incidents like valve leaks, as we detect them. We are currently working with an additional firm to further review this matter. We intend to continue to act in a responsible manner to ensure careful analysis of any concerns shared by staff.

The safety of our students and staff is always a high priority. To ensure that safety, District 113 routinely contracts with businesses who conduct environmental testing. Routine tests were conducted in 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012. The findings from experts have always been that the air quality is in normal and acceptable range.

I will keep you apprised of any new information I receive; I hope everyone has an enjoyable summer. We already look forward to seeing our students back in the fall.

George V. Fornero

Superintendent