Parents demand mold testing at Oconee County Elementary after health concerns arise

Concerns over potential mold at Oconee County Elementary School (OCES) took center stage during the Oconee County Board of Education meeting on April 21, 2025. Parents voiced their alarm regarding health risks linked to mold exposure, citing reports of illness among teachers and visible mold in classrooms and gym areas.

A parent, representing a group of concerned families, detailed alarming findings, including mold under carpets and in gym floor cracks. "Teachers reported being sick," she stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Despite initial assessments by the school district indicating no mold presence, parents remain skeptical and are demanding further testing.

A petition signed by 74 community members was presented, urging the school district to conduct independent mold testing before proceeding with any flooring replacements. The petition highlights the need for transparency and accountability, stating, "Simply replacing the flooring without identifying or addressing a possible underlying mold issue may leave students and staff vulnerable to ongoing health risks."

The parent expressed deep frustration, recalling past mold issues in other schools and the lack of adequate responses. "Our teachers and school staff deserve to work in an environment where their health and voices are taken seriously," she asserted. The community's call for action reflects a broader concern for the well-being of students and staff, urging the school board to prioritize health and safety over expediency.

As discussions continue, the board faces mounting pressure to address these serious allegations and ensure a safe learning environment for all. The outcome of this situation could have lasting implications for the community's trust in the school district's commitment to student and staff welfare.