Cabell County, West Virginia, August 13, 2025
News Summary
Explorer Academy in Cabell County has postponed its start due to mold discovered in the building. The decision aims to ensure safety while remediation occurs. The new school start date is yet to be determined. Air quality testing confirmed the presence of mold spores, prompting officials to prioritize thorough cleaning over continuing classes. The Open House will still proceed in unaffected areas, while the community stays informed on safety measures and updates.
Cabell County’s Explorer Academy Delays School Start Due to Mold Discovery
Cabell County, West Virginia – Explorer Academy, a school for Pre-K through 5th grade, has postponed its first day of classes, initially set for Wednesday, August 12, 2025, due to concerns over mold discovered within the building. This decision was made after officials were alerted to potential mold issues the previous week.
Last Wednesday, the school administration raised alarms about the possibility of mold. In response, a mold remediation company conducted air quality testing the following day. The analysis yielded results indicating the presence of two common outdoor mold spores: Penicillium and Cladosporium.
Despite the remediation company’s recommendation to deploy foggers in the affected areas rather than shutting down the school, local officials opted for a closure to prioritize the safety of both students and staff members. During this period, kindergarten orientation has also been delayed, and it will be rescheduled to coincide with the new first day of school, a date that is yet to be determined.
In a bit of good news, the Open House event planned for Tuesday evening will still take place, although attendees will use an entry and exit point in an area of the building that remains unaffected by the mold concern. The Cabell County Schools (CCS) district has committed to engaging professionals for thorough cleaning and retesting of all impacted areas before allowing students and staff to return.
Principal Ryan McKenzie is expected to provide guidance to staff concerning their assignments and responsibilities during this closure. Meanwhile, CCS will continue monitoring air quality and mold levels, keeping the community informed of any developments regarding the situation.
Community Response and Safety Measures
The decision to postpone the school year and close Explorer Academy has sparked various reactions among parents and the local community. The safety of students remains the top priority for local education officials. All necessary actions are being taken to ensure that the air quality is restored to acceptable levels before students return to the classroom environment.
Background on Mold Issues in Schools
Mold in schools can pose health risks to students and staff, making it imperative for educational institutions to address the problem swiftly. Mold often thrives in damp conditions, and schools with older facilities or those experiencing leaks can be particularly vulnerable. The discovery of Penicillium and Cladosporium is also common, but swift action can mitigate potential health impacts.
Cabell County Schools aims to resolve the present situation as quickly and safely as possible, demonstrating commitment to maintaining a healthy learning environment.
FAQ
Why was the school start date postponed?
The school start date was postponed due to the discovery of mold within the building. Officials prioritized safety by closing the school to allow for thorough cleaning and remediation.
When will the new first day of school be announced?
The new first day of school has yet to be determined, but it will be announced once the remediation process is complete.
What actions are being taken to address the mold?
The school district is engaging professionals for thorough cleaning and retesting of the affected areas to ensure safety before students return.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| School Name | Explorer Academy |
| Original Start Date | August 12, 2025 |
| Mold Spores Found | Penicillium, Cladosporium |
| Response Actions | School closure, air quality testing, thorough cleaning |
| Open House Event | Proceeding as scheduled in an unaffected area |
| Future Updates | Ongoing monitoring and community updates |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WV MetroNews: Cabell County School First Day Delayed Due to Mold
- Wikipedia: Mold
- WCHS TV: Cabell County School Postpones First Day of Classes After Mold Found
- Google Search: Mold in Schools
- WSAZ: Mold Issues Postpone First Day of School at One Facility
- Google Scholar: Mold Exposure Health Effects
- WOWK TV: Explorer Academy Delays First Day of School Due to Mold
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mold
- Herald-Dispatch: Explorer Academy Opening Delayed Due to Mold
- Google News: Mold School Delays
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