An AZ school's air quality reached potentially harmful levels, and parents are angry

Kyrene de la Sierra Elementary School in Ahwatukee closed following air quality tests that detected elevated particulate levels from a roof construction project. Parents expressed frustration during a district board meeting, emphasizing their safety concerns and health issues experienced by their children. Superintendent Laura Toenjes explained that the closure seeks to provide a less disruptive solution for families. Students will temporarily relocate to nearby campuses until the school reopens after the district’s fall break in October. The district acknowledged that air intakes were not sealed during construction, which is against protocol.

A certified industrial hygienist advised the closure after initial tests indicated potentially harmful air quality. Parents had raised concerns about the smell associated with the construction prior to the closure, leading to the tests. The district plans to implement routine air quality testing for future construction projects to prevent similar incidents.