In an letter posted online earlier today, the Pennsauken School District informed parents and guardians of students who attend Fine Elementary that mold was recently discovered at the school and remediation of the issue was already underway.

“We discovered possible mold due to the high humidity and incessant weather this season. After testing the school and discovering mold in the building, we began the process of mold removal with our facilities experts, administration, and staff,” said Dr. Ronnie Tarchichi, superintendent of Pennsauken Public Schools, in a letter addressed to parents and guardians. “In order to protect our students and staff, we contracted a consultant from a well renowned remediation company. They are in the process of eradicating any mold or surface growth resulting from condensation to ensure a healthy environment for students and staff. I assure that your children’s safety is our main concern and before we open the school, we want to ensure that the mold is eliminated and the air quality is pure.”

According to the letter, detailed remediation will be completed by Friday, Sept. 6. Because of this, the first day of school for Fine students will be on Monday, Sept. 9. In addition, these students will also have to make up these days this upcoming June “to ensure that they complete the prescribed number of required school days per the New Jersey Department of Education.”

“We will be working with our Board of Education to develop a plan for ensuring this issue does not arise again due to humidity, condensation, or weather,” added Tarchichi. “We are committed to the continued safety and health of our entire community and will keep you updated.”

To read the entire letter addressing the mold situation at Fine Elementary, click here.