BSVDWatch.org

We are just learning about a concerning issue at Foothills Elementary regarding a high level of formaldehyde inside their portable classrooms. We don't have enough information at this time to go into much detail, but from what we have heard from a few concerned parents is that there is controversy surrounding the measured results of the formaldehyde in the portables, and BVSD's handling of the issue.

BVSD has spent $10,000 already on measuring the portables at Foothills to see if the levels of formaldehyde exceeded standards put out by OSHA. Results from BVSD's testing company Quest showed that they measured amounts of formaldehyde did not exceed OSHA standards. But here is where it gets interesting. We hear that an employee of the Boulder County Public Health Department questions the validity of the test Quest conducted, and that OSHA standards apply to worker health and not for acute persons, which includes children. Said public health employee has been in contact with BVSD & Chris King about their concerns and options for moving the students to another location while more tests were conducted. BVSD decided to not follow their suggestions.

As things develop we'll post more info. Until then, if you have questions or concerns about the issue we recommend contacting Melisa Zahn, the Principal at Foothills Elementary at 303.443.1847 or  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , as well as Chris King, BVSD Superintendent, at 303.447.5100 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it If you really feel like inclined, contact The Daily Camera's school reporter, Amy Bounds at 303.473.1341 or  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

For more information on the subject of formaldehyde in school environments visit this link.

Update: We understand that BVSD did do another test (only at the urging of parents) and the Boulder County Health department (and Foothill parents with science backgrounds) say the levels are within acceptable limits. We are glad BVSD took the extra time and spent the extra money to reanalyze the Foothill Elementary portables. Everyone involved seems to be happy with the method of the second test and of course relieved to hear there are no levels of formaldehyde that would be detrimental to the health of the children.