FRANKLIN, Ind. (WISH) — Two elementary schools in Franklin have been cleared to resume classes after tests for toxins provided “strong evidence the air in the schools is safe.”
Franklin Community Schools announced the results of air sample testing at two elementary schools on Friday.
According to the report, the samples collected at Webb and Needham elementaries by environmental experts “showed no detection of PCE, TCE, or any other chemical of concern” at either location.
The release of the results came days after the two schools were forced to participate in an e-learning day after initial environmental testing led to a call for more testing.
Franklin Schools officials said in July they would test air, water and soil in the area after data showed alarming levels of toxic chemicals in homes near the schools.
Environmental firm EnviroForensics, which first did testing at the schools in July, also performed the most recent round of tests. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM), Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) contributed to the testing.
According to the report, 20 indoor air samples at Needham Elementary and 24 indoor air samples at Webb Elementary were tested. Additional sub-slab and floor drain samples were also tested.
“FCS remains committed to ensuring student and staff safety by taking proactive steps to address contaminants under the slabs,” said a Franklin Community Schools spokesperson in a statement.
FCS is planning to remedy the issue by installing a sub-slab depressurization system. That process will take place outside of regularly scheduled school days, the district said.
The district said it is also planning another monitoring event before the end of the year to “confirm the indoor air remains safe.”
Franklin Community Schools said full sampling results will be released on their website Friday.
(Photo provided by WISH-TV.)
