MONESSEN, Pa. — Students in the Monessen School District are scheduled to return to in-person classes within the coming week, but parents are raising safety concerns following months of remote learning caused by a mold discovery.
The district discovered mold inside its facility over the summer, forcing several months of virtual instruction for some students.
Although administrators say the issue has been resolved, families argue board members have ignored their concerns, questioning the remediation firms hired by the district and alleging a lack of transparency.
Monessen School District Superintendent Robert Motte addressed the parents during a recent school board meeting.
“Parents are guardians. They want clear and reliable information about the environment in which their children learn,” Motte said. “That’s not only understandable, it’s something we owe you.”
Parent Stephanie Santoro voiced frustration.
“I care about these kids, maybe too much, but I want them to be safe,” Santoro said. “As adults, we expect someone to be accountable for these big decisions and to watch it happen to me in plain sight and know that no one is taking accountability for none of it. My mind is blown.”
Several parents noted their children may transition to remote education.
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