Markham Facilities Update
Dear Markham community,
I want to begin first by acknowledging the hard work and sacrifice that have gone into making this first week of co-location for Markham students go so smoothly. Teaching and learning in converted classrooms and unfamiliar spaces has involved adjustments both big and small. When I visited each of the temporary Markham classrooms, I was met with smiling faces, infectious enthusiasm, and educators going above and beyond to make sure that their students’ learning journey continues uninterrupted.
I also wanted to update you on the condition of the Markham school building. Last week, I joined Dr. Brown-Warrens and PPS leaders, as well as members of the district’s facilities and risk management teams, on a comprehensive walk-through of the damaged areas. Most of the plumbing system is original to the building and contains asbestos pipe insulation. When the pipes burst, the water damage exposed hazardous material, including asbestos, which must be abated and removed before crews can make repairs.
Shortly after the walk-through, a work crew began the multi-step asbestos abatement process. They completed the initial steps earlier this week. Those include a drying out phase, debris removal, and asbestos and moisture surveys. Workers are currently preparing the impacted spaces for containment, which involves bringing the rooms to negative pressure so that the asbestos can be safely captured.
Once abatement is complete, repair work can begin. As part of that work, we will need to replace Markham’s outdated plumbing system. Last month’s storm did extensive damage to the already vulnerable system, and many pipes are so worn that replacement is the only lasting solution.
It is possible that, as workers remove damaged and sometimes hazardous materials, they might uncover more areas in need of abatement and repair. These factors make it challenging to establish a concrete timeline for repairs, but we should know more early next week and will be in touch then.
Thank you for your patience and understanding, and have a safe and joyful weekend.
Sincerely,
Dr. Esther Omogbehin, Assistant Superintendent
