Plano ISD Closes Murphy Middle School for Environmental Issues

Murphy Middle School closed this week after air quality assessments led to environmental remediation. WFAA sat down with the principal.

PLANO, Texas — Murphy Middle School is closed this week as Plano ISD addresses environmental issues inside the building.

The district said the closure comes after staff raised concerns about humidity and odors in certain areas of the campus. Dr. Mark Letterer, a principal supervisor at Plano ISD, said an initial environmental study in late August led to recommendations that were completed.

“Upon receiving some more concerns, we did a more thorough environmental study,” Letterer said.

When results from that second study came back on Oct. 3, the district made the decision to close the building and resolve the recommendations from the assessment the following week.

“The building was always in good shape for the students, but we really are taking extra precaution to complete the recommendations,” Principal Dr. Tramy Tran said.

The study did not detect black mold, according to Letterer, but there were references to mildew. He said the assessment recommended cleaning ducts and HVAC systems, disinfecting supply and return grills, and replacing carpet in some classrooms. 

Tran said at least seven classroom carpets have already been replaced, and re-testing will be conducted before staff and students return.

“As soon as I hear a concern, the district has been very responsive,” Tran said.

Students are studying online this week. With Fall Break scheduled next week, Tran plans to resume in-person instruction Oct. 20 at Murphy Middle School. She said they are filing a waiver with the Texas Education Agency and does not believe makeup days will be needed.

For students who need breakfast or lunch, food is being provided at McMillan High School across the street from Murphy Middle School. In-person academic support is also being offered at the McMillan library.

“We were proactive. We want to do the right thing,” Letterer said.

Tran said she looks forward to welcoming students back once remediation is complete.