Episode #70 Sick At School: A Teacher's Battle Against Mold with Michele Fisher

What would you do if the classroom you taught in was riddled with mold? 

In this moving episode, former teacher Michele Fisher recounts how her once-joyful classroom became a nightmare of moldy books, stained ceiling tiles, and air so contaminated it made her sick. Despite visible damage and a formal diagnosis of mold toxicity, school officials dismissed her concerns and refused proper testing or remediation. Michele had to make the agonizing choice between her health and her livelihood. Now, she has pivoted her career to help others facing similar battles. 

Tune in for tips on how to navigate toxic air in schools and hear Michele’s inspiring story of illness, advocacy, and hope.

Episode Highlights

·      What happened when Michele first encountered mold at the school where she worked? (2:44)

·      How did the school respond when Michele showed evidence of moldy material in her classroom? (8:11)

·      What ultimately happened with Michele’s role at the school? (16:39)

·      How does mold in schools affect students? (18:32)

·      What would Michele do differently, and what advice does she have for teachers going through similar situations? (20:24)

·      What changes would Michele like to see regarding mold and water damage in schools? (24:19)

·      How is Michele using her experience to help others? (26:34)

Links mentioned in interview:

Mold and Indoor Air Quality in Schools https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-and-indoor-air-quality-schools

“ADA 101 for CIRS & Mold Illness: Tips to Navigate the Reasonable Accommodation Process Successfully” by Vanessa Johnson: https://changetheairfoundation.org/ada-101-for-cirs-mold-illnesstips-to-navigate-the-reasonable-accommodation-process-successfully/

Start Here tab: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-water-damage/

Get in touch with our guest:
Safestart Environmental: https://safestartiaq.com

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation: 
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

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Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.