VIDALIA, GA (WTOC) -
Parents brought as many concerns as questions to impromptu meeting with the superintendent of Vidalia schools. They knew their school, J.D. Dickerson Elementary, was slated for renovations in coming months. But, one part of the project has them worried.
"Saturday, I had a phone call that there was possibly asbestos in the building," explained parent Angie Fortner. "Then, yesterday I had several phone calls stating there was asbestos in the building."
Parents wondered why they didn't already know the material was present in the building. Superintendent Dr. Tim Smith told the group how the material (now known to be potentially hazardous) was commonly used during the 1950's and 60's when Dickerson was built. He noted the schools are legally bound to annually advertise the presence of asbestos.He also explained the asbestos isn't harmful unless inhaled during its removal.
Parents told Smith they felt they'd discovered the presence of the asbestos and the plan to remove it "by accident".
"My worries were that it was in the roof or in the ceiling tiles or something and it would get into the ventilation of the school and then the children would be eating or breathing asbestos particles," explained Kelly Tippett.
Parents expressed strong concerns that the school system would attempt to conduct the complicated task of removing the asbestos while school was still in session for the year and students could be at risk.
Smith said the board had not even awarded a contract with a firm to remove the material, let alone scheduled a time for the work. He said it is unlikely, but possible, the work could start before the end of the school year.
"If there's any way to do it, we won't. I don't want these people upset with me and I certainly don't want to do anything they think will hurt their child," explained Dr. Smith.
He also assured the parents they would send home notices of a removal schedule as soon as it is finalized. He also promised all safety procedures would be followed by a licensed firm.
But many parents voiced promises they would not expose their children to potential hazards if the work begins before the school year ends.
"I think a lot of parents feel they'll just take their kids out if they do it while kids are there," Fornter stated.
The renovations are part of a $2 million SPLOST project.
Copyright 2012 WTOC. All rights reserved.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2012 WorldNow and WTOC, a Raycom Media Station.
