Is There Still a Mold Problem in Chorley?

At the February 17 meeting of the Board of Education, Dr. Eastwood informed the public that black mold spores were not detected in Chorley elementary school. However, his announcement glossed over the fact that mold spores from many different species can induce allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Some of the symptoms of mold spore allergies are running nose, nasal congestion, and irritation to the nose, throat, or lungs. More information about mold spore allergies may be obtained from your physician or the Department of Public Health.

Historical, the persistent and periodic water leaks in this building are well known. It is the moisture from these leaks that creates the perfect environment for mold growth. Since mold spores are always found upon examination, according to the State Health Department, the existence of persistent water leaks in a building may be sufficient grounds for initiating legal action for mold spore exposure. Recently, after an employee in Chorley reported that both he and his daughter were suffering from allergies that they attributed to mold spores in Chorley, he was dismissed. Please refer to an earlier blog. We also have received unconfirmed reports that other Chorley employees may be suffering from allergies that they attribute to mold spore exposure. These individuals are afraid to come forward out of fear of administrative reprisals. We will inform the public of further developments.

Employee Dismissed After Making Complaint of Mold in Chorley

By a one vote margin of five to four, The Middletown Board of Education upheld Dr. Eastwood's recommendation to dismiss a non instructional employee who had complained of an adverse reaction to mold spores in Chorley. After complaining that both he and his daughter suffered from respiratory problems they associated with exposure to mold spores in Chorley's air, he was informed by his superior in the school administration that, " He was not a team player ", and would be dismissed.

As is typical in these situations, his dismissal was attributed to his work performance, and signed letters attesting to the quality of his work were ignored. Despite claims by the administration that there is no mold problem in Chorley, and that all water leaks in the roof have been corrected, we at Inside Midddletown Schools have been informed that Chorley's roof still periodically leaks. According to the State Health department, the existence of a leaking roof is sufficient grounds for potential litigation for mold. At this time, it is uncertain whether or not this former employee will sue on behalf of his daughter and himself for alleged exposure to mold spores and/or will sue the district over his dismissal claiming he was a "whistle blower".