By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Asbestos tiles found at Jefferson Elementary
School board meets Thursday at Lincoln Elementary
new_slt_asbestos.jpg

Plans to update flooring at Jefferson Elementary hit a snag after it was discovered that 10 rooms contain asbestos floor tiles, Superintendent Khris Thexton said. The tiles must be removed by an approved abatement contractor prior to installation of the new flooring.

“The floor tiles have been in the school for a number of years and if left undisturbed/covered they pose no health risks,” Thexton said, adding he did not know exactly when they were installed. “Currently, I am not aware of any other buildings that have this type of asbestos floor but we are required to remove asbestos if found during a remodel/replacement.”

The school board will be asked to approve an addendum to the flooring bid and to approve the bid release for abatement of the asbestos tiles when it meets at noon Thursday, Feb. 26, at Lincoln Elementary School. Although Thexton did not have a cost estimate, he said the district will take bids on the process so it can follow regulations for the proper removal and disposal of asbestos material.

The school district has updated flooring at several schools over the past few summers, following a carpet and vinyl tile replacement schedule. Last year Park and Eisenhower schools saw upgrades. Jefferson and Lincoln are scheduled to have carpet replaced this summer. 

“Students will not be allowed to be in the building while the asbestos abatement is in process, but can be in the building during the installation process – just not in the area where the new carpet is being (laid),” Thexton said.


Thursday’s agenda

Action on a district personnel report is also on the agenda for Thursday’s school board meeting.

Lincoln Elementary Principal Misty Straub and other staff members will share information regarding the academic programs and school improvement effort in their building.

An additional information item on the agenda is a reminder that the next meeting date has been changed from March 11 to March 4, due to a schedule conflict with Spring Break (March 11-15). The meeting will be at 5 p.m. Monday at the District Education Center.