Parent advocates mold testing and improved communication in Oconee school district

The Oconee County Board of Education held a regular session on May 12, 2025, where community members voiced concerns regarding health and communication issues within the school district.

The meeting began with public comments, where a speaker from Athens, Georgia, expressed support for testing in schools to address potential mold issues. He highlighted the loss of teachers and a nurse, attributing these departures to health concerns related to the school environment. The speaker urged the board to allow third-party testing for mold and humidity levels, emphasizing the need for transparency and follow-up on any findings.

He also raised concerns about a breakdown in communication between teachers and the administration, suggesting that educators feel disempowered to discuss their issues. He called for the board's involvement to help resolve these operational matters and improve dialogue within the district.

Following this, Sarah Danis, a parent and Oconee County High School graduate, shared her positive experiences with the school system but also expressed her concerns about the conditions at Oconee County Elementary School (OCES). She noted that her children have had wonderful experiences in Oconee schools, but she echoed the need for attention to the issues raised by the previous speaker.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive educational environment, with calls for action from the school board to address health concerns and improve communication channels within the district. The board is expected to consider these concerns in future discussions and actions.