New Evidence Uncovers Mold Issues at Del Sur Elementary School

Exclusive imagery sourced by Team 10 provides insight into the remediation operations underway at Del Sur Elementary School, which was closed unexpectedly earlier this year because of mold issues. These images, included in formal mold inspection reports, depict workers in protective gear engaging in clean-up activities in the classrooms of the San Diego school.

Some images reveal visible black mold within the school’s HVAC system and on the vents that were cleaned outside with soapy water. Team 10’s investigation was prompted by parents who raised concerns following the Poway Unified School District’s decision to delay the school’s reopening just a day before the academic year due to mold spores detected in several classrooms. Currently, Del Sur remains closed, and students have been relocated to Stone Ranch Elementary School for the remainder of the year.

Parent Sadie Walton expressed her surprise, stating, “We were aware there were mold issues. I did not realize that it was such a concern.” Internal documents indicate that the district has exceeded $766,000 in remediation costs since July. Historical records reveal numerous complaints from staff regarding Del Sur’s HVAC system, which had been leaking and contributing to a musty smell. The district aims for a reopening by January 2024, but officials acknowledge the complexity of the remediation process.