The Tempe Town News recently reported on continuing concerns at Corona del Sol High School.
The 33 year-old AC units at Corona del Sol have been under scrutiny for years. Students, parents, and teachers have been complaining about unpleasant musty smells since the mid 1990's. There were even a few instances where mold had been discovered and was promptly removed. This has led to fears and rumors about the safety of the school.
It seems that while the system was adequate by 1975 standards, increased student population has put a strain on it. Enrollment through the early 1990's averaged about 20 students per classroom. Today that number is between 30-35. Combined with record temperatures and high humidity levels, the AC system cannot do what is asked of it.
One standard of air quality is carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. In 2001, Corona meet the minimum standards set by the SFB (School Facilities Board). In 2006, the Health Effects Group (HEG) was hired to do a comprehensive air quality assessment. They determined CO2 levels were building up in classrooms and common areas to levels that exceeded acceptable standards. These acceptable standards were established by the American Society of Heating and Cooling and the SFB. However, the study also said "There is no long term negative effects for students and staff. The only persons who may have a concern would be those with already-existing severe respiratory conditions."
In order to address these concerns, the school district requested emergency funds from the SFB in May of 2007 to correct the AC problems. The SFB has denied all requests for additional funds. However, now the state is stepping in and has OK'ed another independent study. The study will entail extensive CO2 and mold testing.
In the meantime, the district has OKed a 4 phase project to address the concerns that totals $14 million:
- replace the existing chiller with a larger one, installing larger pumps, and upgrading electrical services
- installing a new supply loop for chilled water to classrooms and installing new exhaust fans to remove CO2
Phases 1 and 2 were available in the district budget, but steps 3 and 4 require additional funding:
3. more electrical upgrades
4. AC unit installment in each classroom
For more detailed information from the school districts web site click here.
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