Letter from Jules Hirsh and Nancy Rubinger

April 8, 2008

Dear Parents,

Thank you for your letter of March 28. You raised some concerns that the Temple and program leadership took very seriously. We devoted nearly all of last week to addressing them and hope you'll agree we have made significant progress in these areas. 

Because the issue of air quality is so important, we asked four environmental engineering firms (including ATC, which you suggested) for proposals to conduct periodic air quality testing. We have received two responses to date. We intend to retain one of them in time for testing to occur during spring break when classrooms are empty, an optimal condition for obtaining accurate test results. Also, you should know that we conducted a test after the commencement of demolition that indicated the air quality was fine. 

As you suggested, we have ceased all demolition work for the time being. The contractor, PCF State, will continue to accept delivery of materials and, where possible, conduct non-disruptive work like filling masonry joints with mortar. 

 During the spring break (April 14-25), PCF State will attempt to complete as much of the remaining demolition work as possible. A professional cleaning team will be brought in on April 26 or 27 to thoroughly clean all classrooms. Teachers will reset the furniture for their classrooms on April 27. 

 We like the idea of "construction-free" zones and are investigating ways to conduct the ECC classes in other locations, specifically in the classrooms around the Rotunda in the Sanctuary building. In addition, we are continuing to coordinate with the contractor to schedule the noisy and dusty work when the children are not present. 

As for communications, since last week we've implemented a communications plan that includes a Google group, an expanded website and delivery of hard copies to keep you informed. 

Again, thank you all for expressing your concerns. We will continue to do all we can to put the health and welfare of our children first.

Sincerely,

Jules Hirsh
President

Nancy Rubinger
Executive Director