Dear Parents and Staff,
I am writing to inform you that our school district will be conducting required radon testing in our school buildings over the next few weeks. Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Exposure to elevated radon levels over a long period of time can increase one's risk of developing lung cancer.
The Maine Department of Education requires all Maine schools to test for radon once every five years. Testing will involve placing small monitoring devices in all frequently occupied rooms on the lower levels of our buildings. The devices will be left in place for 2-3 days to measure radon levels. Testing will occur on the dates listed below:
Middle School: November 27-30
Sanford Pride: November 28 - December 1
Margaret C. Smith: December 4-7
Carl J. Lamb: December 5-8
Willard School: December 11-14
Testing will be conducted by a certified radon measurement professional and will not disrupt classroom activities. The devices are passive, requiring no electricity or action by students or staff. Results will be shared with the community once testing is complete and analyzed.
Elevated radon levels can be easily reduced. If the testing reveals high radon levels in any of our schools, we will work with radon mitigation professionals to implement solutions to ensure a safe environment for our students and staff. For more information about radon click HERE.
Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Matt Nelson