School Officials Address Mold Issues and Dehumidification Efforts in Ongoing Building Concerns

Concerns over persistent mold issues in Flossmoor SD 161 schools dominated the Board of Education meeting on August 4, 2025. Board members and administrators discussed ongoing challenges with building dehumidification and the potential for mold to return, raising alarms about the safety of school environments as the new academic year approaches.

During the meeting, it was revealed that despite efforts to dehumidify affected areas, mold has a tendency to reappear quickly. One board member expressed frustration over the lack of confidence in the current solutions, emphasizing the need for expert input from forensic engineers who specialize in building analysis. "I can't just sit here idly... I'm not hearing that you guys would," the member stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Financial implications were also a key topic, with estimates indicating that damage repairs could cost around $1 million, including the replacement of tiles and ongoing rental costs for dehumidifiers. The board discussed the importance of air quality testing, which could add further expenses but is deemed necessary for ensuring a safe return to school.

As the meeting progressed, administrators reassured attendees that daily inspections are being conducted to monitor mold levels. They plan to keep dehumidifiers running in classrooms and maintain open ceilings to combat humidity, especially during the critical months of August and September. "We will probably keep a good portion of them popped open even during that first month of school," one administrator noted.

Despite these measures, concerns linger about the likelihood of mold redeveloping throughout the school year. The board acknowledged that while improvements have been made to the building's systems, they have not fully resolved the issues. "All the changes you've made have not solved it," one member pointed out, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and expert guidance.

As the district prepares for the upcoming school year, the board's commitment to addressing these challenges remains clear, with a focus on ensuring a safe learning environment for students and staff.