On the eve of the new school year, New Haven’s Board of Alders Education Committee sent a detailed seven‑page letter to city agencies requesting comprehensive inspections of all public school facilities. The request follows recent visits by aldermen that uncovered mold, rodent activity, water damage and other maintenance problems in multiple schools, including Hillhouse High School.
Inspection request and identified problems
The alders’ inspection request cites specific issues such as mold growth in classrooms, evidence of rodents, and bathrooms lacking doors. These conditions were observed during tours of three additional schools beyond the initial sites. Aldermanic members argue that the findings raise legitimate health and safety concerns for students and staff.
Parents and teachers voice worries
Local parent Daniel Botti expressed unease, saying, “If I hear the school my child is in has an issue like that, I would ask, what’s going on there?” Teachers echoed the call for action, noting that the district’s contract language obligates the board to provide adequate facilities and equipment to maintain a high standard of health and safety. Leslie Blatteau of the New Haven Federation of Teachers highlighted this contractual requirement.
City officials affirm safety
Mayor Justin Elicker and Superintendent Madeline Negron issued a joint statement asserting that all school buildings are safe for students to return on Monday. They added that maintenance crews have already addressed many of the concerns raised by the alders and that ongoing work will continue to ensure a healthy learning environment.
Community expectations
Parents like Botti stress that public schools should meet basic standards, including clean bathrooms and the absence of mold. “Public schools should be equipped with the stuff that any public building should be equipped with. Clean bathrooms. No mold,” he said.
Ten‑year‑old Harlem McCray, a New Haven student, emphasized the importance of a well‑maintained school building for learning. “It’s supposed to be very important because school is very important so we can get our education and stuff,” McCray explained.
Next steps
The alders have indicated a willingness to collaborate with the school district and the Board of Education to address the identified problems. The requested citywide inspections aim to verify that every school meets health and safety standards before the academic year begins in full swing.
As the city moves forward, parents, teachers and officials alike will be watching the inspection process closely to ensure that New Haven’s schools provide a safe, healthy environment for all students.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
