Concern: Ellicott Mills Middle School: May 14th, 2026 (CXEMMS20260003B2)

Location
Portable 1/ 124
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
Black mold in ceiling and in air system. Overall safety and air quality.

I submitted a formal notice/form for repair to the building at the end of last year and just a few months ago, but nothing was done. It appeared that it was painted over after the summer, rather than fixed.

I have pictures attached that were taken 3 days ago.
IEQ Investigation Process

Identify deficiencies that may impact IEQ and/or sources of odor concerns. Typically includes the following depending on the nature of concern, but not limited to:

  • interview/questionnaire of concern individual(s)
  • inspection above drop ceiling (condition of roof deck, pipe insulation, return air plenum)
  • inspection of ventilation system (operation of variable air volume box and outdoor air dampers, check controls, measurements of carbon dioxide, temperature and relative humidity, sources near outdoor air intake, measure return and supply air volume, cleanliness of coils, liner and condensate pan)
  • inspection of exterior
  • inspection below drop ceiling (housekeeping, sink and floor drain traps, signs of past and present moisture concern via visual and/or moisture meter, mold growth, ensure connection of current and capping of abandoned sanitary vents, odorizers, excessive plants and fabric items, identify potential pathways, and measure volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and lighting)
Findings

Dates of Assessment: May 20, 2026

Visible water staining was observed on ceiling within the area of concern. Areas of staining did not contain elevated levels of moisture per a moisture meter. 

Supply diffusers were assessed and visible mold and dust was observed. 

Duct work consisted of bare fiberglass materials; no visible mold was observed on the fiberglass insulation but visible deposits of dust were present in the duct. 

The air filter was found to be dirty but in accordance with HCPSS's filter schedule. 

The outside air damper was observed to be closed. Without introduction to outside air, concentrations of allergens such as dust and mold that normally would be diluted are not. 

Visible mold growth was observed along portions of the bottom two inches of drywall around the portable classroom. Drywall walls did not contain elevated levels of moisture per a moisture meter. 

Staff health concerns could be caused by any combination of the below: 

  • Mold growth likely caused by custodial flooring practices, historic spills, and/or building envelope deficiencies. 
  • Fiberglass being inhaled due to air erosion of bare fiberglass ductwork. 
  • Outside air damper being closed reducing the dilution of allergens within the classroom.

The following remedial actions were performed in an effort to address potential sources of concern. 

Corrective Actions
May 20th, 2026

A board approved restoration contractor removed the bottom portion of drywall throughout the classroom. 

Exposed impacted wood studs that were cleaned, disinfected, and encapsulated. 

Supply diffusers were cleaned and disinfected. 

Portions of the ceiling that were previously water stained were encapsulated. 

Items within the classrooms were cleaned and disinfected. 

May 22nd, 2026

A duct cleaning contractor cleaned duct work prior to encapsulating the exposed fiberglass duct work to prevent fibers being released into the air. 

The air filter was replaced after cleaning and encapsulation was completed. 

May 26th, 2026

Building Maintenance (HVAC) to evaluate and open outside air damper. 

May 29th, 2026

Building Maintenance (Roofing) did not identify roofing leaks but observed that gutters had been previously and indicated that screw holes from previously present gutters could have been a water intrusion pathway. Screw holes were sealed at the time of the assessment. 

July 8th, 2026

A board approved contractor evaluated the portable for potential water intrusion pathways and none were identified. 

Damaged drywall studs were replaced. New drywall was installed.

Rusted supply diffusers and return grille were replaced. 

Closed
No
Tracking Number
CXEMMS20260003B2