Politics & Government

Environmental Task Force Prioritizes Action for Malibu Schools

There are plans to begin implementing a draft evaluation plan by Oct. 31.

The Malibu Environmental Task Force met this week to prioritize the evaluation of potential health concerns at Malibu schools, including the immediate removal 
of visible mold at a Juan Cabrillo Elementary School.

The meeting included 13 representatives from the school community, including teachers, students, parents, Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District Board President Laurie Lieberman, environmental consultant Mark Katchen and SMMUSD Superintendent Sandra Lyon and other district officials. 

According to a statement released by the district, the task force agreed:

  • The testing protocols must yield scientifically solid, reliable data that will guide proper conclusions and any necessary action. 
  • There is a tremendous sense of urgency to gather data, and answer questions and concerns, but the task force agreed that adequate time must be provided to ensure the process is inclusive of community input. 
  • Immediate action will be taken to: 
    • Remove visible mold in Room 12 at Juan Cabrillo Elementary School Release the report of the latest mold sampling at MHS Post the asbestos management plan for MHS and Juan Cabrillo 
    The public can submit questions to the task force at mhsfaq@smmusd.org. 

    The task force will meet again Thursday, Oct. 31, at 10 a.m. at Malibu High School, and will continue to meet weekly as necessary. There are plans to begin implementing a draft evaluation plan by Oct. 31.

    Read more coverage of the Malibu High Health Concerns:
    Katchen met with staff at both Malibu High School and Juan Cabrillo Elementary School this week and walked through both campuses as part of putting together the evaluation plan. Katchen is also reviewing all technical reports. 

    Of the school's 60 teachers, 20 said they suspected mold, chemicals or other workplace contaminants may be the cause of three cases of thyroid cancer and other health concerns. 

    Once the meeting summary is complete, it will be posted online: http://www.smmusd.org/PublicNotices/Malibu.html.


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