Initial testing conducted at the Penn-Kidder campus in Jim Thorpe did not reveal any immediate threats to life or adverse health effects, Jim Thorpe Area School District Superintendent Robert Presley said Wednesday night.

An environmental study was launched in response to health concerns raised by a group of staff members. A main concern, substitute teacher Mary Blay said at a school board meeting last month, was a large amount of cancer cases among the staff.

Jim Thorpe contracted Mountain Research in October to conduct the environmental quality study at a cost of $20,750.

According to Presley, “no atmospheric concentration of toxic, corrosive, or asphyxiant substances was detected during the early portion of the study, and biological material tests for mold or fungi showed no levels of concern within or around the building.”

A letter from Presley updating the Jim Thorpe school community on the study notes that Dr. Joseph A. Cocciardi is heading the cancer cluster/excess cancer risk study team.

“The team conducted a thorough review of documented hazardous substances in the district during the week of Nov. 13, 2023,” the letter states. “This included assessments of buildings, grounds, chemical storage areas, and occupied rooms. Interviews with stakeholders, both on-site and by phone, were conducted to gather information on potential concerns and exposures. The study team did not identify any ‘Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health’ conditions during the initial review.”

The next step in the study, Presley said, involves recommendations for additional tests and measurements. These include air and water tests at the Penn-Kidder site to determine levels of chemical and radiological constituents.

“The results of these tests, combined with data gathered from interviews, will help assess any intermediate or long-term concerns, such as excess cancer risk, at the location,” he said.

When the tests come back, ”Excess Cancer Risk” levels will be expressed in terms of population risk. An ECR of 1 in a million indicates no appreciable risk, while an ECR of 1 in 10,000 or greater is generally considered a risk by health organizations, including the US Environmental Protection Agency. Results falling between these values may require further study.

Sampling technicians collected additional samples at the Penn-Kidder site during the week of Dec. 4. The samples will be analyzed at an American Industrial Hygiene Association accredited laboratory.

“Results are expected to be available by the end of the month, with a report of findings and recommended actions to be completed based on the calculated ECR levels,” Presley said.