News Summary
Roxbury Elementary School in Solon has been temporarily closed due to potential asbestos contamination detected in the building. Environmental testing revealed elevated levels of asbestos, prompting immediate action to ensure the safety of students and staff. Although a follow-up test showed no asbestos, the district is engaging an independent laboratory for further verification. Classes and activities will remain suspended until it is confirmed that the school environment is safe for all. The district is committed to providing regular updates as the situation develops.
Roxbury, Solon – School Temporarily Closed Due to Asbestos Concerns
Roxbury Elementary School in Solon has been temporarily closed through Wednesday, September 10, 2025, following the discovery of potential asbestos contamination in the building. The district prioritized safety after environmental testing indicated possible health risks for students and staff.
Initial Closure and Testing Results
The Solon City Schools district announced the school closure on Sunday, September 6. Over the weekend, environmental tests were conducted to assess the presence of hazardous materials. The testing results initially showed that one classroom had an elevated level of asbestos, prompting immediate action to prevent exposure.
Follow-up Testing and Conflicting Results
Late on September 6, further testing was carried out in the same classroom, which returned a negative result for asbestos. This conflicting information has led the district to seek additional verification. An independent third-party laboratory has been engaged to conduct confirmatory testing to determine the actual safety status of the classroom and the school overall.
Safety Measures and School Closure Duration
The district has decided to keep Roxbury Elementary School closed until definitive testing confirms that the environment is safe for students and staff. During this period, all activities and classes at the school are canceled. This includes gatherings, events, and any other scheduled activities to minimize risk.
Communication and Next Steps
District officials, including Superintendent Fred Bolden and Principal Mariann Moeschberger, have emphasized that the protecting health and safety of students and staff remains the top priority. The district is actively developing a plan to resume classes at an alternative location within the district once the testing confirms the building’s safety.
Families will continue to receive regular updates as testing progresses and results are available. The district also confirmed that all activities at Roxbury Elementary are suspended during this closure period to prevent any potential health hazards.
Background and Context
Asbestos is a known mineral fiber used in building materials in the past, but it is now known for its health risks, especially when fibers become airborne and are inhaled. Exposure to asbestos can lead to respiratory illnesses, and its management in schools is critical for student and staff safety.
The presence of asbestos in older school buildings has prompted comprehensive inspections and safety measures nationwide. In this case, the emphasis is on thorough testing and verification before reopening the school.
This situation remains fluid, with updates expected as additional results are obtained and safety measures are finalized. The district has not yet announced a specific reopening date but assures that decisions will be made based on conclusive testing to ensure a safe environment for everyone.
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Additional Resources
- News 5 Cleveland
- Wikipedia: Asbestos
- Fox 8 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Asbestos
- Cleveland Jewish News
- Google Search: Roxbury Elementary School asbestos
- Fox 8 News – E-Bike Ban
- Google News: Asbestos in Schools
- Cleveland.com
- Google Scholar: Asbestos Regulations
- Fox 8 News – House Fire
- Google Search: Solon City Schools
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