Article published Jun 13, 2006

Mold indicative of facility problems

 

Health factors are a large issue regarding the Paul Rudolph buildings at Riverview High School. I wonder how the preservationists would feel if their son or daughter were sitting inside a building with severe and persistent mold problems? I have been informed by teachers at RHS that there is a mold problem.

My daughter struggled with cold and flu symptoms for all four years at RHS, but this last year has been the worst (due to the number of classes she had in the old buildings). After a year of constant colds, flu symptoms and bronchitis; several courses of antibiotics; and numerous missed days of school, our now-graduated daughter is remarkably better!

I'll have a sophomore and freshman at RHS next year. I am worried they will also begin to have health problems due to the mold, as they start attending more classes in the old buildings.

I have a great appreciation for the unique architecture created by Rudolph and others included in the Sarasota School of Architects. However, this building has become a hazard to those whom it is supposed to benefit. In light of the fact that Riverview is a designated public school (and the location will need to remain a school), it has to be beneficial for that purpose. To warrant saving the building, it must have merits other than being a Paul Rudolph design. It has to accommodate future student growth, provide for the necessary technology they will need and, most of all, be safe.

The original building is not safe, and professionals have determined that it would be unreasonable to bring the building up to the standards necessary for a high school. With health issues at hand, and students' futures being affected, this cannot be delayed any longer!

Adelaide Aurelius

Sarasota

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