The BOE followed up regarding construction concerns and the Haddonfield Education Association’s contract at the Dec. 15 meeting
The Board of Education followed up regarding construction concerns and the Haddonfield Education Association’s contract at the Dec. 15 meeting in the library of Haddonfield Memorial High School.
Regarding the incident that occurred at Central Middle School where an educational aide went to the hospital for testing on Thursday, Nov. 30, after contact with “lingering fumes,” the board elaborated on the situation.
Board President Adam Sangillo explained that, following an investigation, they determined how fumes entered the building, and from that information, current construction protocol was enhanced. The staff will also have transparency with the products being utilized at all times, in addition to bringing in an industrial hygienist to help oversee and make sure everybody is working to keep the staff and students safe, Sangillo said.
Rob Notley of New Roads Construction addressed the precautions and procedures taking place to ensure the safety of students, faculty and staff during ongoing bond referendum construction.
“We have issued a formal protocol for indoor air quality during construction,” Notley said.
“The protocol basically formalizes and improves the procedures we already had in place, with an emphasis on improved communication and improved pro-activity.”
Notley explained the main components of the new safety measures. He said they are obtaining data and safety sheets about any construction materials that may affect air quality. According to Notley, some construction materials include fuels, solvents, cleaning agents and adhesives. Epic Environmental, the district’s environmental consultant, will be able to help determine if any of the products listed could pose a concern, and if so, assist in finding a safer alternative that meets “specified performance.”
During public comment, residents expressed concerns over the ongoing construction.
“Look, let’s not put lipstick on a pig,” parent Tom Heine said. “It’s a mess.”
“I just bought one of our kids their second backpack because they have to carry their entire day of books in their bag because their lockers are so dirty,” Hein said. “The seniors didn’t get their class picture as a group because the stadium is not done. … All 10 girls on the freshman basketball team are complaining about sore throats because the dust is so bad. … The dust is awful.”
The Haddonfield Education Association’s contract was also brought up by residents as well as the board. Sangillo discussed the importance of being able to take a step back and analyze the situation to avoid this lengthy process with the HEA in the future, prompting those involved to ask “how did we get here?”
“We know how we got here though, information was given to the HEA very late,” parent Beth Glennon said. “Information was given to the HEA that was incorrect, they found the mistakes and went back to you (the board) and waited and waited to get the information. That’s how we got there, so it’s not a mystery.”
“I think there’s more to most equations than meet the eye,” Sangillo said in response.
The next mediation meeting was set to take place on Dec. 18, and the next board meeting will be held on Jan. 4.
