In a letter to parents, interim Superintendent Damen Cooper said the school is working with the Montclair Department of Health, Alliance Pest Control Services and the District building and grounds team on a "comprehensive remediation plan."
This week, spaces where pipes enter walls and ceilings that provide passageways for mice were sealed with silicone and will be placed on elevated monitoring by the pest control service. The number of bait stations were also increased.
The team conducted a deep cleaning and sanitizing of all affected areas using a HEPA vacuum and sanitizer, Cooper said.
Alliance will be working in the building over the weekend to monitor rodent activity, evaluate progress and ensure that the extensive remediation measures have been effective in preparation for the return of staff and students on Monday, Cooper said.
The school also implemented an alternative snack location plan, giving teachers the option to take classes outside or to the cafeteria for snack time to eliminate risks of food/drink spills and crumb droppings in classrooms, Cooper said.
Cooper is asking students and staff to properly discard all food items, dispose of trash and food waste in designated trash receptables, organize and declutter storage closets in classrooms for proper monitoring and reduction of rodent activity and to report any signs of rodent activity to the school administration.
"We understand that news of a rodent issue may be concerning, but please rest assured that we are taking all necessary precautions to resolve this matter quickly and effectively," Cooper wrote. "We appreciate your patience and support as we work to maintain a safe and healthy school environment for everyone, as that is always our priority.
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