Russell Lawrence: Old carpet in Cruickshank Middle School is a health hazard
The Merced City School District has renovated some schools. Cruickshank Middle School has been an exception.
CMS still has the frayed, decayed and tattered remnants of carpets that are 24 years old. These carpets, clearly not cleanable, contain the dust, bacteria and viral properties of a quarter century. Taking a child to the doctor is an economic burden, even for families in north Merced. Some carpets in the office and another wing of the school, were replaced 12 years ago. But the majority never have been replaced. The current solution has been to duct tape the various holes and tears in various classrooms. As the rainy season comes, these carpets may germinate the norovirus, salmonella and campylobacte.
Parents should know that in the coming rainy season no testing has taken place and their children might be at risk. If entering a doctor’s office, I saw duct tape covering the floor, I would question the professionalism of that office and seek another for my child. CMS students deserve better than this. Carpet is expensive, but the health of children is worth it.
Russell Lawrence, Merced
This story was originally published October 24, 2017 at 4:29 PM with the headline "Russell Lawrence: Old carpet in Cruickshank Middle School is a health hazard."