Asbestos delays St. Michael School opening
 
The opening of classes at Worthington St. Michael School has been delayed until Friday, Sept. 22. The delay was caused by the release of asbestos dust, a known cancer-causing material, when the school’s tile floors were damaged slightly in late June while being stripped and waxed as part of annual summertime maintenance.

The entire school is being cleaned and the asbestos floor tile, ceiling tile, and other items are being removed and replaced. The school will be tested for asbestos and radon when the work is complete. Insurance is covering the project. Classes had been scheduled to start on Wednesday, Aug. 23. Preschool classes will begin on time because they are in another building. After-school care will begin when school starts.

An email to parents from Sister John Paul Maher, OP, school principal, said the delayed opening means all unrequired school breaks will be eliminated and the school year will be extended until June 15. She said the diocesan Schools Office granted a one-week special exemption from its requirement of 175 instruction days. Teacher development programs have been moved to days before and after the school year. The school will work with parents who face financial difficulty because of unexpected child care costs related to the delayed opening.

Sister John Paul told parents that options which included having classes at a temporary site were considered, but it was determined the late start was preferable “to best focus time and resources on getting the whole school operational faster.”

She also said parents have sent many expressions of support since learning of the situation. She appreciates their “embracing what the Lord has allowed to take place with great trust, even amidst the unique challenges. God is with us and He is bringing us the gift of strengthening our community by the public witness of faithful and generous parents.”