Mold was found in two of Waterford Township's three elementary schools. But all three will be closed until Monday, affecting over 900 students.
Officials say mold was first suspected at the start of school, and then the Camden County Health Department notified the district last week after doing an inspection two weeks earlier.
A particularly wet spell in late summer, plus Hurricane Irene, contributed to the mold problem, along with a leaky roof at Waterford. The school board has approved a $4.2 million dollar bond for improvements at the Waterford, Thomas Richards and Atco Schools, including new roofs and ventilation systems.
Meanwhile additional inspections have turned up mold on some cafeteria and classroom furniture at Atco Elementary. Cleanup will start there tomorrow.
We spoke with a few parents about the mold problem and the unexpected week off.
"I am concerned about mold in the schools. I believe they're doing the right thing," said Debby Fryslie.
"I'm a stay-at-home mom, but I feel bad for the other ones who do have go to work and have to take their kids with them," said Christina Coulter.
The cost of the testing and cleanup is $185,000. The district is checking insurance policies and applying to FEMA to try and get some financial help. The schools are set to reopen on Monday.
