Mold contamination in California schools is a growing concern for parents, educators, and public health officials. From leaky roofs and poor ventilation to aging infrastructure and overcrowded classrooms, school buildings often present ideal conditions for mold growth. While mold can be found in any indoor environment, its presence in schools poses unique risks to children—who spend hours each day in these facilities and are especially vulnerable to respiratory and allergic reactions. This article explores the causes of mold in schools, health risks to students, legal protections, and what California parents can do to advocate for safer learning environments.
Why Mold Is a Problem in Schools
Mold thrives in damp, poorly ventilated environments. In schools, common sources of moisture include:
- Leaky roofs and plumbing
- Poorly maintained HVAC systems
- Flooded basements or classrooms
- High humidity in locker rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens
- Wet coats, backpacks, and gym clothes stored in confined spaces
Older buildings and portable classrooms are particularly susceptible. According to the California Department of Education, mold concerns are among the most frequent complaints received from parents and staff.
Health Risks to Children
Children are more vulnerable to mold exposure than adults due to:
- Developing respiratory systems
- Higher breathing rates per body weight
- Increased hand-to-mouth behavior
- Inability to recognize or report symptoms
Exposure to mold in schools has been linked to:
- Asthma attacks and respiratory infections
- Allergic reactions (sneezing, coughing, skin rashes)
- Headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating
- Nosebleeds and sinus inflammation
- Potential neurotoxic effects from mycotoxins in certain mold species1
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and California Department of Public Health (CDPH) warn that any visible mold, musty odor, or water damage should be treated as a health hazard—even without formal testing.
Lack of Testing and Regulation
Despite the risks, California does not require mold testing in schools. There are:
- No state or federal exposure limits for airborne mold spores
- No mandatory mold inspections in public schools
- No licensing requirements for mold assessors or remediators in California
This regulatory gap leaves school districts to self-monitor and self-report mold issues—often relying on visual inspections that may miss hidden contamination behind walls, under carpets, or in ceilings.
Legal Protections and School Accountability
California law requires schools to be maintained in “good repair,” which includes being free from water damage and visible mold. Key legal tools include:
- Facility Inspection Tool (FIT): A voluntary checklist used by districts to document mold and moisture issues
- School Accountability Report Card (SARC): Annual reports that include FIT results and facility conditions
- CAL/OSHA regulations: Protect teachers and staff from mold exposure in the workplace
- Section 504 accommodations: May apply to students with mold-related health conditions requiring accessible learning environments1
However, students themselves have no enforceable indoor air quality protections under current California law.
Real-Life Example: Trinity Alps School District
In 2019, the Trinity Alps Unified School District discovered widespread mold contamination after hiring an industrial hygienist to test air quality. Spore counts reached hundreds of thousands per cubic meter—far exceeding outdoor levels. The district quarantined buildings, relocated students to portable classrooms, and spent millions on remediation.
Parents reported chronic respiratory issues, migraines, and missed school days. The case highlighted the lack of state guidelines and prompted Trinity County to begin developing its own mold safety threshold for schools.
What Parents Can Do
Concerned parents can take proactive steps:
- Ask questions: Request information about mold inspections, water damage, and HVAC maintenance
- Review school reports: Examine the FIT and SARC documents for signs of mold or moisture issues
- Document symptoms: Keep a health log if your child experiences respiratory or allergic reactions at school
- Request accommodations: If mold affects your child’s health, ask about Section 504 plans or alternative classroom placement
- Report concerns: Contact school administrators, local health departments, or school boards
- Consult a California mold exposure lawyer: If your child suffers serious health effects, legal action may be warranted
Advocacy and Legislative Reform
Parents and educators are calling for:
- Mandatory mold testing in schools
- Clear exposure limits and remediation standards
- Licensing requirements for mold professionals
- Funding for school repairs and air quality improvements
- Stronger legal protections for students
Until these reforms are enacted, community awareness and parental involvement remain the most effective tools for protecting children from mold exposure.
Final Thoughts
Mold in California schools is a hidden hazard that can seriously impact children’s health and learning. While state law recognizes mold as a substandard housing condition, it offers limited protections for students in educational settings. Parents must stay informed, ask questions, and advocate for safer school environments. If your child has been harmed by mold exposure, a qualified California toxic mold lawyer can help you explore your legal options and seek justice.
References
- California Department of Public Health – Mold and Dampness Overview
- CBS Sacramento – Hidden Toxic Mold Lurking in Schools
- Healthy Schools Network – Molds at School Fact Sheet
- EPA – Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings Guide
- Mold Answers – Mold in Schools: What Parents Can Do
- Environmental Law Institute – Mold in Schools: Overview of State Laws
- California Education Code § 17070.75. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC§ionNum=17070.75
- California Health & Safety Code § 39619.6. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=HSC§ionNum=39619.6
