Radon Testing Program Update for District 214

  • Ensuring a Safe and Healthy Learning Environment

    District 214 is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment for all our students and staff. In alignment with this commitment, District 214 has recently completed an extensive radon testing program across all our buildings. Illinois statute recommends - but does not require - that districts test for radon in occupied school buildings every five years. District 214 proactively initiated an assessment of radon levels within our facilities, following guidelines from Illinois health authorities and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  

    About Radon
    Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that may pose health risks in high indoor concentrations. Our decision to conduct radon testing underscores our dedication to the well-being of our community and adheres to the highest standards of safety and environmental health.

    To learn more about radon, please visit the Environmental Protection Agency website at the following link: https://www.epa.gov/radon

    Initial Testing Phase Completed
    We extend our thanks to everyone for their cooperation during the testing phase. The process has revealed areas in some buildings where radon levels exceed the EPA's recommended action threshold of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Specifically:

    • High School District 214 Radon Testing Summary View Report
    • Buffalo Grove High School: Two locations View Report
    • Elk Grove High School: Forty-two locations View Report
    • Forest View Educational Center: One location View Report
    • John Hersey High School: No significant findings View Report
    • Prospect High School: Three locations View Report
    • Rolling Meadows High School: Fifteen locations View Report
    • Wheeling High School: Five locations View Report

    Next Steps
    Guided by advice from environmental experts, we are moving forward with long-term testing (90 days minimum) in the identified areas. This subsequent testing will clarify the initial findings and guide our mitigation strategies. During this period, we have engaged three reputable radon mitigation firms to prepare for any necessary mitigation actions based on long-term testing.

    Our Commitment
    The long-term radon testing in areas with potentially elevated levels is scheduled to commence the week of February 19, 2024. We are dedicated to minimizing its impact on school operations and activities. Our priority remains the health and safety of our students and staff. We are ready to implement all recommended mitigation measures and will update you on the retesting process and subsequent steps.

    Radon Long-term Test Results

    Stay Informed
    We encourage the District 214 community to stay engaged and informed as we navigate this important initiative. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact Aneta Mistak, our Director of Operations.

    Thank you for your continued support and cooperation. Together, we are ensuring that our schools remain a secure and healthy environment for everyone.