Homer-Center School District delays start of school year after mold found in elementary school

The Homer-Center School District has delayed the start of the 2026-27 school year after mold was discovered in some elementary classrooms, school officials announced on Saturday. No known concerns were detected in the high school building.

The new start date is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, the district said on its website.

"Our custodial and maintenance staff members have worked diligently throughout the summer and have done an outstanding job preparing our schools. However, the prolonged humidity has contributed to conditions within the elementary school that require additional attention before students return," Superintendent Ralph Cecere Jr. said in a statement.

The district plans to contract with a professional cleaning service to address elevated levels of aspergillus spores in the affected classrooms.

"The health, safety, and well-being of our school community remain our highest priorities. We will not reopen affected areas until we are confident they meet our expectations for a clean and safe learning environment," the statement read.

The district said it recognized the challenges that students and families may face with a later start date, but believed delaying school was the safest course of action.

Officials said they would provide updates and share additional information that may affect the reopening schedule at the earliest possible opportunity.