Pinellas Head Start Centers Closed Due To Discovery Of Mold

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — Lutheran Services Florida Head Start in Pinellas County has delayed the January return to school to address possible mold concerns found in the following Head Start centers:

• Clearwater Center
• Connie L Marmaro
• Dunedin Center
• Friendship Center
• Good Samaritan Center
• Gulley Center
• High Point Center
• Jordan Park Center
• Los Caminos
• Rainbow Center
• Tarpon Springs Center

"Florida facilities are more prone to mold issues than other states because of the hot temperatures we experience followed by long periods of rain," said LSF Head Start spokesman Josh Talkington in a press release. "During routine checks while the centers were closed for the holiday, we found mold issues and quickly brought contractors in to address the concern. Parents and families were notified immediately."

Talkington said the mold problems range from minor to more serious and impacts about 800 children.

LSF Head Start expects to reopen some centers starting Jan. 13. If the delay lasts longer than a week, the nonprofit Head Start provider plans to offer home-based options where possible and alternative schools for the children enrolled in Head Start.

LSF Head Start will host a parent meeting following the reopening of its centers to answer any questions parents might have.

"We recognize and understand the inconvenience this has caused and appreciate support in ensuring the health and safety of our children, staff and visitors during this time," said Talkington.

LSF Children and Head Start Services is a statewide nonprofit human services agency serving more than 6,000 children and families in Duval, Hillsborough, Palm Beach, and Pinellas counties.