New Haven – On Friday afternoon, about 20 parents, community members and city aldermen gathered in a third‑floor classroom at Hillhouse High School to confront Mayor Justin Elicker and school officials with a stark reality: the building is unsafe for children.
Walkthrough reveals ongoing water damage
Organized by education advocate Nijija Ife‑Waters, the group toured the 480 Sherman Parkway campus while water continued to drip from the ceiling in rooms B313 and B314. Large trash cans collected the runoff, and participants noted missing ceiling tiles, dust‑filled vents and a ceiling stain that appeared to be growing mold.
“This isn’t right at all,” Ife‑Waters said, urging the administration to act immediately. “A child inhaling mold spores is a health danger, not a scare tactic.” The group also asked whether school leaders would be willing to move their own offices into the leaking spaces, challenging the claim that the building is safe.
Officials respond to concerns
Mayor Elicker acknowledged the district’s long‑standing maintenance backlog but defended his earlier statement that the school had passed recent air‑quality testing. “The building is safe for staff and students,” he said, while also agreeing that repairs are needed.
Chief of School Operations Paul Whyte pledged to enter the issues into the district’s work‑order system and to arrange air testing for the ISS room where mold was observed. He also announced that the roof will be assessed over the weekend as a step toward a full replacement, with bids to be solicited for the $8 million project.
Community calls for accountability and quality work
Local organizer Sun Queen, a Hillhouse alum, warned that the conditions send a message that “our babies” do not matter. Alderman Frankie Redente, who also works at nearby Fair Haven School, reported similar leaks in his building’s auditorium.
Contractor and activist Rodney Williams raised safety concerns about a leak near electrical wiring and urged that the upcoming roof contract be awarded to a company that can provide eco‑friendly, quality work rather than simply the lowest bidder.
Parents voiced frustration that the district secured state funding for the Floyd Little Athletic Center while Hillhouse’s roof remains in disrepair. Alicia Watley, mother of a freshman, said the disparity feels unfair to students who endure daily hazards.
Next steps for Hillhouse
Principal Antoine Billy confirmed plans to relocate staff from the most affected rooms next week. The district will also address simpler fixes, such as blinking light fixtures, as requested by community organizer Kerry Ellington.
While the walkthrough highlighted serious health and safety concerns, city officials have committed to a thorough roof assessment and to pursuing grant funding for a full replacement. The community’s vigorous involvement underscores the importance of safe, well‑maintained schools for New Haven’s children and families.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
