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Pontiac Elementary commenter says portables are unsafe, lacking internet; board members acknowledge concerns
Summary
During public comment at the Aug. 26 meeting, a speaker identified as Ashley Solio described unsafe and inadequate conditions in portables at Pontiac Elementary, citing a falling screw that struck a student, loose metal and holes, and lack of Internet access for classroom technology. Board members acknowledged the concerns and discussed follow up.
A public commenter at the Aug. 26 Richland Two board meeting described unsafe and inadequate learning conditions at Pontiac Elementary, saying portables placed for construction have exposed students and staff to hazards and that technology promised for classrooms was not available when school opened.
“A screw fell and hit a student, metal pieces [came] loose by doorways, and even holes to the outside,” the commenter, identified in the meeting roster as Ashley Solio, told the board. Solio also said clear touch boards were left unopened in boxes while students had no Internet access, forcing teachers to rely on laptop screens and personal devices to deliver curriculum. “In just the first 15 days of school … these are not the conditions that reflect continuous improvement,” Solio said.
Solio thanked Mr. Gary Dennis for visiting the Pontiac portables on Aug. 13 and thanked district administrators for stops during instruction. She framed her remarks around the district’s stated core values — continuous improvement, learning, joy and belonging — and said that current conditions undermine those goals for students and staff.
Board members responded to the comments. During the public‑comment period and later when voting on executive session items, Dr. Elkins Scott said he was “a little bit disturbed” by the tenor of remarks that implied the district does not care about Pontiac, adding that he taught first grade at Pontiac and that he “absolutely love[s] Pontiac.” He urged sensitivity and noted the district’s efforts for all schools.
Context and follow up
• Timing and scope: Solio said the incidents occurred during the first 15 days of the school year and that the portables had been requested to remain for use after construction but were later demolished, leaving students in temporary spaces.
• Technology: Solio said Internet access and interactive boards were not available to classrooms at the start of the year, and that more than 40 students were at one point learning in the cafeteria.
• Board responses: Board members acknowledged the concern and noted visits and follow‑up. Mr. Dennis was specifically thanked for a site visit; Dr. Elkins Scott and others affirmed support for Pontiac and encouraged future dialogue.
What the board did not decide tonight
No formal action specific to Pontiac portables (for example, an emergency facilities vote or funding allocation) was taken during public session. The speaker’s comments were part of the public participation period; the board moved on to vote on items previously discussed in executive session.
Ending note
Speakers at the meeting urged the district to align operations with its stated values and to ensure classrooms are safe and equipped before classes begin.
