A Pinellas County school is under investigation after a kindergarten teacher died from pneumonia linked to legionella bacteria, prompting concerns over air quality in classrooms. Katherine Pennington, 45, passed away on November 24. The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County has launched an inquiry into the air quality at Pasadena Fundamental Elementary School’s classroom building.
Following Pennington’s death, seven classrooms were relocated to another campus building for repairs and testing. Parents demanded the school ensure all air systems and water systems were free of mold. After visiting the school, health officials confirmed compliance with regulations on December 5, but students will return once repairs are completed and air quality is verified.
The Pinellas County Schools district has assured that necessary measures are being taken to safeguard student health. An environmental company cleaned the affected building, and air quality samples were submitted to an external lab for analysis.
Source: https://www.wfla.com/news/pinellas-county/classroom-air-quality-a-concern-for-pinellas-county-parents