Leaks Cause Trouble For Bend, Culver Schools
Burst Pipes Damage Buildings, Parents Concerned
BEND, Ore. -- With the recent snowfall comes frozen pipes. With them come water damage and, in some cases, mold.
Two schools suffered the wrath of Central Oregon's cold weather over the Thanksgiving weekend, and parents say they want answers.
At Culver Middle School, a pipe burst, destroying textbooks, computers, desks and school records.
"Basically, we will have to re-tile about 20,000 square feet and (put in) all-new cabinets," Culver Principal Brad Kudlac said Tuesday. "We will also have to replace all new sinks, and new plumbing too."
On Monday, ceiling tiles fell in one of Bend High School's oldest classrooms, built in the '70s, after a pump failed, releasing hot water into the ceiling.
Students were moved to another room as soon as the leak was noticed, and before a few tiles fell. Though maintenance crews and staff say the situation is under control and no mold has been sighted, parents say their children's health is on the line.
NewsChannel 21 received several complaints from parents. In an e-mail to us, one parent who wished to remain anonymous said, "My concern is for the health of the students and staff, and that the parents of these students are made aware of the potential dangers. I am a very concerned parent."
The big issue: Is the health of schoolchildren being jeopardized by a lack of attention to air quality, especially in older school buildings?
Experts say the potential health danger is real and not to be taken lightly.
"Overall, indoor mold exposure is an issue for people, especially when people are having symptoms, and it needs to be addressed," said Dr. Adam Williams of the Bend Memorial Clinic. "But if people are not having symptoms, then I'm not sure people need to be concerned about a hidden toxic mold effect."
The challenges of solving indoor air mysteries at schools is becoming an issue that students, staff, and parents can't ignore any more.
Bend High's maintenance team is replacing tiles and pipes above the affected classroom.
The principals at both Culver Middle School and Bend High said they want parents and students to know that it is safe to attend classes, and they hope to have the damage repaired as soon as possible.
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