Asbestos Removal Project at Hutchinson High School

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News Summary

A major asbestos removal project is set to begin at Hutchinson High School, ensuring safety for students and staff during renovations.

Asbestos Removal Begins at Hutchinson High School

Next week marks the beginning of a major asbestos removal project at Hutchinson High School, following the School Board’s approval of a low bid totaling $455,000 from Sterling Systems of Long Lake. This amount exceeds the initial estimate of $400,000, a discrepancy attributed mainly to the number of staff contractors required for the extensive job.

As asbestos abatement work commences, focus will initially shift to the east wing of the school. This significant step is not just about removal; it is also about ensuring the health and safety of students and staff by preventing any chance of material spread during the ensuing demolition process.

Relocation and Safety Measures

To facilitate this substantial work, students have vacated their classrooms and settled into a new three-floor wing at Hutchinson High School. After an upcoming school concert on February 12, crews will swiftly pivot to removing and salvaging equipment from the auditorium. In the interim, band and choir classes will temporarily relocate to the west wing of the school, with a more permanent move in March to CrossPoint Church for the third trimester. This strategic relocation allows for both the abatement and subsequent demolition processes in the west wing to proceed without disruption.

Park Elementary Set for Renovation

Meanwhile, in a related move, Park Elementary is gearing up for demolition of its northern wing, originally built in 1956. As with Hutchinson High School, asbestos remediation will be the first priority before any demolition can begin. The Hutchinson School Board has already approved the motion to solicit bids for necessary asbestos abatement work at Park Elementary. Interestingly, while some asbestos remnants have been detected throughout Park Elementary, the majority of these materials have already been effectively addressed.

Park Elementary, which has been standing since 1938, presents unique challenges given its age and the historic use of asbestos in building materials during that time.

Mountain Valley Middle School Faces Budget Freeze

Turning our attention to Mountain Valley Middle School in Mexico, significant health concerns have prompted an urgent need for action. Recent reports indicate that asbestos and mold issues have led to carpet removal. Superintendent Deb Alden announced a freeze on the $37 million budget for various reasons, particularly the need to attend to these pressing issues at the middle school before it opens its doors to students in late 2025 or early 2026.

An indoor air quality study unveiled alarming findings, showing elevated levels of mold spore activity across several areas, including custodial closets and locker rooms. Adding to the complexity, the school district concluded the previous budget year with minimal carryover funds, necessitating the budget freeze.

Impact of the Budget Freeze

The financial strain facing the district has intensified due to rising health insurance costs, inferring that grants will be essential in covering ongoing expenses. As a result, new acquisitions, including professional development for educators and classroom supplies, are now restricted to absolute necessities. Extracurricular uniform purchases may be shelved, and school field trips limited to local destinations or virtual experiences.

District administrators plan to revisit the budget freeze in December, as the situation continues to unfold amidst heightened concerns related to asbestos and mold in the schools.