With schools across the state testing for Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in their buildings, and experiencing disruptions and even closures, the Harwood Unified Union School District (HUUSD) has begun testing as well. Superintendent Dr. Michael Leichliter said in an email that the state of Vermont is handling the contracting. The Warren School was first, with testing occurring last week, per Leichliter, and HUUSD does not yet know when another building test will follow in the district.
While there are no tests yet completed in the majority of district schools, Leichliter noted, “We know that nearly all buildings constructed between 1936 and 1980 have PCBs.” Should PCBs be identified in any of the buildings, the district will work with professionals to decide what would need to happen next, he said.
Testing is paid for via Act 74 of 2021, which included $4.5 million for PCB testing in schools.
