Page 14 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • September 18, 2013 Ceiling tiles fall during class time; no injuries reported Interlocked ceiling tiles fell down in one of the class- rooms at Midland Park High School last week, but none of the six students hit reported any injuries other than dust or dirt in the eyes, according to school authorities. “They were treated by our school nurse, and no one was sent to the hospital. The tiles are pretty lightweight so it would be hard to imagine any significant injuries from impact,” said Board of Education President William Sulli- van. A tile sample analysis determined that the tiles do not contain asbestos, Sullivan said. The classroom is located at the end of the science wing and is part of the original struc- ture built in 1956 but is not located in the area of the school where the roof is being repaired. “I toured the building yesterday afternoon (Wednesday, Sept. 11) with our buildings and grounds supervisor and a representative from our architectural firm. All of the classroom ceilings are being inspected and repairs/replace- ment will be determined as necessary. Students will be temporarily relocated within the building to accommodate any work that needs to be done,” Sullivan said, adding that Bergen County Executive Superintendent Scott Rixford had stopped by to view the rooms. “He confirmed we have done everything possible to remediate the situation swiftly and communicate to par- ents…he was very supportive,” Sullivan noted. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marie Cirasella sent out a general email appraising parents of the situation and delin- eating steps being taken to address safety concerns. The eblast noted that: • “On-site investigations by the architect and district staff indicate this appears to be an isolated incident which could not have been predicted and occurred without warn- ing. • “Room 54B, adjacent to Room 54, has also been closed and students temporarily relocated due to a small bowed area in the ceiling in the corner of the room. • “District staff is conducting an investigation of all rooms with similar ceiling tiles at MPHS, as well as at Godwin and Highland Schools. • “Any ceilings determined to have minor issues will be proactively re-secured with pine board and/or other means. • “All proper analysis and investigative procedures are being followed. • “A plan/timeline to install new dropped ceilings and lighting will be identified and implemented following the removal of the old ceilings.” “Please be assured the district is conducting swift follow-up measures to remediate and identify any addi- tional problems,” Dr. Cirasella said.