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April 3, 2019
Dear Parents and Caretakers:
Ensuring a healthy, safe learning environment is a top priority for Warrensville Heights City School District. Essential to this commitment is open communication with parents and guardians about any relevant health and safety issues.
In the past, asbestos was used extensively in building materials because of its insulating, sound absorbing, and fire retarding capabilities. Virtually any building constructed before the late 1970s, which includes WH High School built in 1964, contain some asbestos.
Earlier this year, damage to the main high school gym floor was sustained due to a sprinkler malfunction. Since that time, contractors have been working to make repairs to restore the floor to a working condition. During the time of this construction, the District required that asbestos testing be conducted on the original floor material utilizing Emerald Environmental, an Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certified inspector. Air quality tests were also requested. The findings came back as well-within acceptable OSHAA clearance levels. The district then followed EPA guidelines and were told that, “sealing off the space was more than adequate” while we secured a contractor for asbestos abatement measures.
On the morning of Wednesday, April 3rd we learned of a disturbance to the sealed gym area. While it is not clear if any students were exposed, the proper precautions were immediately taken thanks to the quick thinking of our custodial and building staff.
Currently, we are working with the proper local and state authorities including the Ohio EPA for further testing within the space. Out of an abundance of caution, we will conduct abatement measures that are considered safe for remediation of buildings during the school year and approved by the Ohio EPA.
Anyone wishing to know more about the Asbestos Management Program or the asbestos-containing materials found in the Warrensville Heights City Schools may request to read the Asbestos Management Plan which is on file in the School Facilities Office.
We are intent on not only complying with, but exceeding local, state and federal regulations in this area. We will take whatever steps are needed to ensure your children and our employees have a healthy, safe environment in which to learn and work.
As always, I will continue to keep you updated as we learn more. Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
In Service,
Donald J. Jolly II
Superintendent
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