YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio-The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached an agreement with Accel Schools Ohio LLC to address lead paint and asbestos concerns at three of its schools in Ohio: Youngstown Academy of Excellence, Niles Preparatory Academy, and STEAM Academy of Warren. Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, Accel is required to restrict access to affected areas until asbestos and lead paint hazards are remediated and confirmed safe. EPA Regional Administrator Debra Shore emphasized the importance of protecting students and staff from exposure, ensuring healthy learning environments. The agreement mandates full assessment and abatement of asbestos and lead-based paint hazards, with timelines set to complete necessary work before the start of the 2024/25 school year. EPA also issued a notice of violation under the Toxic Substances Control Act regarding asbestos concerns and has subpoenaed Accel for compliance records across its Ohio and Michigan schools under the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act.
