Dear Fremont Parents and Guardians, In response to community concerns, the Long Beach Unified School District commissioned a series of environmental tests at Fremont Elementary School over this past summer.
These tests were intended to determine if any previously unknown environmental hazards existed at Fremont.
In order to ensure an abundance of transparency, the district voluntarily consulted and collaborated with the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) for environmental oversight of these tests.
As a result of these tests, a small quantity of soil impacted with lead or arsenic was discovered in outdoor areas. The lead or arsenic in the soil was slightly above regulatory guidelines established by the Environmental Protection Agency and DTSC.
The minor level of lead or arsenic found does not pose a significant health risk unless the soil is ingested in large quantities over a long period.
Out of an abundance of caution and in agreement with DTSC, the district elected to have the impacted soil removed prior to the start of the new school year. It is important to note that these substances are commonly found in soil.
This message is being sent to notify you that these impacted soils will be removed on Tuesday, August 17, and removal is expected to complete on or before Wednesday, August 18. This removal will be done with oversight from DTSC per the district’s voluntary request. Thank you for your support as we work to provide the best learning environment possible for our students.
The district will share additional information on Fremont’s environmental investigations in a community meeting, which will be held the week of September 13. Meeting information will be available soon.
Sincerely, David Miranda Executive Director Long Beach USD – Facilities Development & Planning