It dismays me to find our school featured in an article referring to a three-year-old study about school air quality. (Dec. 9) No one called the school to ask about current air quality findings.

As published, that was not news, it was history!

Since 2005, when the quoted study was written, we have installed improved ventilation systems, including localized exhaust collection systems in shop areas. Subsequent testing has proven air quality at our facility to be safe.

From the post-installation report performed while school was in session, on April first of this year: ” air cleaning machines [have] reduced the concentration of microscopic dust [to] below recognized ambient standards “

Individual classrooms have been fitted with separate filtered ventilation. This ensures particulate matter not captured in the shops will be filtered before the air enters the classrooms. Additional equipment to filter incoming air throughout our circulation system will be installed this year.

I agree our facilities need to be upgraded soon. Our building is formerly a boat manufacturing plant, and was not designed as a school. We have had to address lighting, noise level control, heating and cooling with creative solutions.

We will continue our efforts to ensure the safety of students and staff at MCST.

Elizabeth Fisher, Rockland

Director, Mid-Coast School of Technology