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Linden school officials investigate photos showing construction materials and a propped door at McManus Middle School
Summary
District leaders told the Linden Board of Education that photos posted to social media showing dust, construction materials and a propped door at McManus Middle School prompted an immediate investigation; the district and the project's architect say the contractor was given a November 29 completion deadline and has been placed on notice.
Board President Dr. Melina Berghammer and Superintendent Dr. Perkins told the Linden Board of Education that photographs posted on social media showing construction materials and an open door at McManus Middle School prompted an internal investigation and contractor follow-up.
Dr. Perkins said the images showed "construction materials in areas where bathroom renovation work is being conducted" and that "the dust is not hazardous," adding that the business administrator had confirmed there were no hazardous materials present. She said the matter "is now under an active investigation" and that staff are required to report security concerns through proper channels.
Parent speakers at the meeting urged clearer communication and accountability after social-media posts caused alarm. Clea Williams said parents should be notified in advance about building projects and asked that any staff member who shared the photos externally be disciplined. Williams told the board that social-media posts "led to more mistrust with the parent community and the school district."
Joe Flynn, senior associate with HQM Architects and Engineers, told the board the contractor missed original deadlines, was placed on notice, and was given a final completion date of Nov. 29. Flynn said his office will conduct regular site visits and the contractor committed to adding staff to supervise the four sites involved to prevent a repeat.
Dr. Perkins and Flynn both emphasized that the contractor bears responsibility for on-site security during deliveries and work. Flynn said the architect's office and the business office have been meeting with the contractor; he told the board, "we put the contractor on notice that they are responsible for making sure the building is secure" and that they had communicated directly with subcontractors and foremen.
The board did not announce any specific disciplinary actions at the meeting; Dr. Perkins said the investigation would continue and that the district will take "appropriate action" based on its findings. School leaders encouraged parents and community members to report concerns through the district's established channels.
