We, the undersigned parents, guardians, and community members of Olla Elementary School call for LaSalle Parish School Board to thoroughly investigate any concerns regarding the physical and emotional health and safety of both students and faculty at Olla Elementary School.
What we know is that bat abatement and cleaning of the affected facilities at OES were deemed complete at the end of December 2018. On Monday, February 4, 2019, a deceased bat was found in the gymnasiums girls' restroom by a janitor. The gymnasium was not originally deemed an affected facility, and was not abated or cleaned in the fall. This was reported to the LaSalle Parish central office by Principal Dawn Book, who was two days later put on administrative leave. We also know there have been numerous gas leaks throughout the school.
During the recent turmoil, with the bat infestation and then the removal of the principal, it has come to our attention that the faculty at Olla Elementary School are being subjected to unprofessional, unethical, and possibly unlawful requests from the superintendent of LaSalle Parish schools. This creates an emotionally unhealthy work environment for those working most closely with our children.
We respectfully and urgently request that the division look into any and all concerns in regards to the health and safety of the students and faculty of Olla Elementary School. This includes, but is not limited to, the concerns stated in this petition.
