Mold Remediation in Tyler, TX
Mold Remediation in Tyler is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. Mold can develop quickly in damp areas, posing serious health risks to you and your family. Whether it's due to a leaky roof, flooding, or high humidity, addressing mold issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to your property and ensure the safety of your loved ones.
At Disaster Response, we understand the urgency of mold problems. Our team of experts is equipped with the latest technology and techniques to identify and eliminate mold effectively. We conduct thorough inspections to assess the extent of the mold growth and develop a tailored remediation plan that addresses your specific needs. Our goal is to restore your home to a safe and healthy condition as quickly as possible.
Mold can not only damage your property but also lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems and allergies. That's why our mold remediation services in Tyler focus on not just removing the visible mold but also addressing the underlying moisture issues that allow mold to thrive. We take a comprehensive approach to ensure that your home is not only mold-free but also protected against future infestations.
Choosing Disaster Response means you're opting for professionalism and expertise in mold remediation. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring that your home is safe and comfortable. Don't let mold compromise your health and property—contact us today for a thorough assessment and effective remediation solutions tailored to your needs.
- Disaster Response: The Authority on Tyler Mold Remediation
- Disaster Response: The Leading Authority on Mold Remediation in Tyler
- Mold Testing and Remediation Overview: Following IICRC S520 Standards
- Do You Really Need a Mold Remediation Expert in Tyler?
- Reach Out to a Mold Remediation Specialist in Tyler, TX, for These Mold-Related Issues
- Essential Steps to Take After Discovering Mold in Your Home in Tyler
Disaster Response, The Authority on Tyler Mold Remediation
Finding a reliable mold remediation service in Tyler, TX, can be overwhelming, but with Disaster Response, the choice becomes clear. With years of experience in the industry, we specialize in effectively eliminating mold and restoring your home or business to a safe environment. Our dedicated team understands the health risks associated with mold exposure and is committed to providing thorough and efficient remediation services.
At Disaster Response, we utilize advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to identify and remove mold from your property. Our experts conduct comprehensive inspections to assess the extent of the mold problem, ensuring that no hidden spores are left behind. We prioritize your safety and well-being, employing environmentally friendly products that are safe for both your family and the planet.
Our commitment to excellence extends beyond just mold removal. We also focus on preventing future mold growth by addressing the underlying causes, such as moisture issues and inadequate ventilation. Our team provides valuable advice on maintaining a mold-free environment, empowering you to take proactive steps in safeguarding your property.
Like the iconic landmarks in Tyler, TX, we stand as a beacon of hope for those facing mold challenges. Our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction set us apart in the mold remediation industry.
As true specialists in Tyler mold remediation, we focus exclusively on the following services
- Comprehensive Mold Inspections
- Mold Removal and Cleanup
- Air Quality Testing
- Moisture Control Solutions
- Preventative Treatments
- Structural Drying and Dehumidification
- Post-Remediation Verification
- Emergency Response Services
- Residential and Commercial Services
- Consultation and Education on Mold Prevention
At Disaster Response, we strive to be THE authority on mold remediation in Tyler. We understand the urgency of addressing mold issues and are here to provide swift, effective solutions. When you choose our services, you can trust that we will restore your space to a safe and healthy condition, allowing you to breathe easy once again.
Disaster Response: The Leading Authority on Mold Remediation in Tyler
Finding a reliable mold remediation service in Tyler can be overwhelming, but with Disaster Response, the choice is clear. With years of experience in the industry, we specialize in effectively identifying and eliminating mold issues, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for our clients. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of mold growth and is committed to providing top-notch service tailored to your specific needs.
At Disaster Response, we utilize advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to assess and remediate mold infestations. Our experts are trained to handle various types of mold, from common household varieties to more hazardous species, ensuring that your property is thoroughly treated. We prioritize safety and efficiency, working diligently to restore your space to its original condition while minimizing disruption to your daily life.
Our comprehensive approach includes not only the removal of mold but also addressing the underlying causes of moisture that contribute to its growth. We believe in educating our clients about mold prevention and maintenance, empowering them to take proactive steps in safeguarding their homes or businesses. With our commitment to excellence, you can trust that your mold remediation project is in capable hands.
As a leading provider of mold remediation services in Tyler, we pride ourselves on our customer-centric approach. We understand that dealing with mold can be stressful, which is why we strive to make the process as seamless as possible. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that you feel supported and informed throughout the entire remediation process.
- Comprehensive Mold Inspections
- Mold Removal and Cleanup
- Air Quality Testing
- Moisture Control Solutions
- Preventative Treatments
- Structural Drying and Dehumidification
- Post-Remediation Verification
- Emergency Response Services
- Residential and Commercial Services
- Consultation and Education on Mold Prevention
At Disaster Response, we are dedicated to being the leading authority on mold remediation in Tyler. Our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction set us apart in the industry. When you choose us, you can rest assured that we will restore your property to a safe and healthy state, allowing you to breathe easy once again.
Mold Testing and Remediation Overview: Following IICRC S520 Standards
The IICRC S520 standard provides a clear guide for safely managing mold issues in homes and buildings. Its main goals are to protect people, ensure thorough cleanup, and prevent future mold problems.
1. Assessment and Inspection
Initial Assessment:
- Trained professionals will conduct a detailed inspection of the affected area. This includes visual checks and using tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras to find hidden mold or moisture.
- Understanding moisture sources is crucial, as mold often arises from water issues or high humidity.
Mold Sampling:
- Although not always needed, testing (both air and surface samples) can help identify the type and amount of mold present.
- Sampling is useful when mold is suspected but not visible, such as when there are odors or health concerns.
- If sampling is done, it must follow proper protocols, with analysis performed by accredited labs.
2. Containment Protocols
Containment Procedures:
- To stop mold spores from spreading during cleanup, barriers (like plastic sheeting and negative air pressure) are used.
- The extent of containment varies; small areas might require basic barriers, while larger or heavily contaminated spaces need more extensive containment.
- Workers must enter and exit through decontamination chambers to avoid spreading mold.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Workers should wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, N95 masks, full-body suits, and eye protection.
- The type of PPE needed depends on how severe the contamination is; more protective gear may be required for heavily affected areas.
4. Remediation Process
Source Control:
- Addressing the root cause of moisture is essential. This may involve fixing leaks, improving ventilation, or managing humidity.
Cleaning and Removal of Mold:
- Mold cannot just be treated with chemicals; it must be physically removed.
- Non-porous materials (like metals and glass) can often be cleaned with HEPA vacuums or damp cloths.
- Severely affected porous materials (like drywall and carpets) should be removed and disposed of according to local regulations.
- HEPA air filtration systems should be used to capture airborne mold spores during cleanup.
Cleaning Techniques:
- Common methods include HEPA vacuuming and scrubbing surfaces where mold is present.
- Antimicrobial agents may be used, but the focus is on physical removal.
5. Post-Remediation Evaluation
Final Inspection:
- After cleanup, a visual inspection ensures no visible mold remains.
- Air and surface tests may be conducted to confirm that mold levels are back to normal.
- It's crucial to check that the environment is dry to prevent mold from returning.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Detailed records of the remediation process, including testing results and cleanup procedures, should be maintained.
- This documentation is important for compliance and may be needed for insurance or legal matters.
6. Ongoing Prevention
- Educating building occupants about moisture control is vital. This includes maintaining HVAC systems, managing humidity, and promptly addressing leaks.
By adhering to the IICRC S520 standard, mold remediation professionals take a systematic and health-focused approach, ensuring that indoor spaces are restored to safe, mold-free conditions.
Do You Really Need, Need a Mold Remediation Expert in Tyler?
While it may be tempting to tackle mold issues on your own, hiring a professional mold remediation service can ensure a thorough and effective solution. Mold can pose serious health risks and structural damage to your home, making it crucial to address the problem with expertise. Disaster Response specializes in mold remediation, providing the knowledge and tools necessary to restore your environment safely and efficiently.
Understanding the Mold Remediation Process
Mold remediation involves a systematic approach to identify, contain, and eliminate mold growth. Professionals like those at Disaster Response utilize advanced techniques and equipment to assess the extent of the mold infestation. This process includes air quality testing, surface sampling, and moisture control measures to prevent future growth. By understanding the specific conditions that led to mold development, experts can implement effective solutions tailored to your situation.
Health Risks Associated with Mold Exposure
Mold can lead to a variety of health issues, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies, or weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, skin irritation, and even more severe reactions in sensitive individuals. Engaging a mold remediation expert ensures that the mold is not only removed but that the air quality in your home is restored to a safe level, protecting the health of your family.
Preventing Future Mold Growth
After remediation, it's essential to take proactive steps to prevent mold from returning. Disaster Response provides guidance on moisture control, ventilation improvements, and regular inspections to maintain a mold-free environment. By addressing the underlying causes of mold growth, such as leaks or high humidity, you can significantly reduce the risk of future infestations.
The Importance of Professional Equipment and Techniques
Attempting to remove mold without the proper equipment can lead to incomplete removal and potential health hazards. Professionals use specialized tools such as HEPA vacuums, air scrubbers, and moisture meters to ensure thorough remediation. Disaster Response's trained technicians are equipped to handle even the most challenging mold situations, ensuring that your home is restored to a safe and healthy state.
Jeremy Dunaway
No Fuss Solutions
Disaster Response Introducing No Fuss Solutions: The Premier Choice for Emergency Clean-Up**
At Disaster 911, we're elevating the standard with ( No Fuss Solutions ), our trusted go-to contractor for emergency clean-up services. While others may settle for the status quo, ( No Fuss Solutions ) takes an innovative approach to restoration.
From water and fire damage to mold remediation, ( No Fuss Solutions ) doesn't just follow industry norms-they set new ones. Our rigorous vetting process ensures that ( No Fuss Solutions ) exceeds expectations, delivering cutting-edge solutions for your emergency needs.
When you choose Disaster 911 and ( No Fuss Solutions ), you're opting for a dynamic partnership that prioritizes effective, next-level recovery. Don't settle for the ordinary-when disaster strikes, choose the best in emergency response.
22803 Tuwa Rd, Tomball, TX 77375
Call UsReach Out to a Mold Remediation Specialist in Tyler, TX, for These Mold-Related Issues
Mold growth can occur in various environments, particularly in areas with high humidity or water damage. This fungal growth can lead to significant health risks, property damage, and unpleasant odors. Recent studies have shown an increase in mold-related issues in Tyler, with many homeowners facing challenges in managing and eliminating mold effectively. If you find yourself dealing with any of the following mold situations, it's crucial to contact a mold remediation expert promptly:
Visible Mold Growth
If you notice mold on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces, it's a clear sign that professional intervention is needed. Mold can spread quickly and may indicate underlying moisture problems.
Musty Odors
A persistent musty smell in your home can be a strong indicator of hidden mold. This odor often suggests that mold is present, even if it's not immediately visible.
Water Damage
Following a leak, flood, or any water intrusion, the risk of mold growth increases significantly. It's essential to address any water damage promptly to prevent mold from taking hold.
Health Symptoms
If you or your family members are experiencing unexplained respiratory issues, allergies, or skin irritations, mold exposure could be the culprit. Seeking professional help can ensure a safe living environment.
Condensation Issues
Excessive condensation on windows, walls, or pipes can create a breeding ground for mold. Addressing these issues with a mold remediation service can help prevent future growth.
Previous Mold Problems
If you've dealt with mold in the past, it's vital to monitor the area for any signs of recurrence. A professional can assess the situation and implement preventive measures.
Regardless of the mold issue you're facing, it's important to understand that Tyler residents should act quickly to mitigate the risks associated with mold exposure. Mold can not only damage your property but also pose serious health risks to you and your family. Engaging a qualified mold remediation specialist like Disaster Response can provide the expertise needed to effectively eliminate mold and restore your home to a safe condition.
Essential Steps to Take After Discovering Mold in Your Home in Tyler
Finding mold in your home can be alarming and overwhelming. Mold can grow quickly and pose health risks, so it's crucial to act promptly. Here are the steps you should follow if you discover mold in your Tyler residence:
- Identify the source of moisture that is causing the mold growth.
- Ensure the affected area is well-ventilated to minimize exposure.
- Avoid touching or disturbing the mold, as this can release spores into the air.
- Document the extent of the mold growth with photographs for your records.
- Contact a professional mold remediation service to assess the situation.
- Follow any safety recommendations provided by the remediation experts.
- Keep children and pets away from the affected area until it has been treated.
- Review your home's ventilation and humidity levels to prevent future mold growth.
If you find mold in your home, it's essential to address it quickly to protect your health and property. Mold can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems and allergic reactions. At Disaster Response, we specialize in mold remediation and are dedicated to restoring your home to a safe and healthy environment.
Contact Your Local Mold Remediation Experts in Tyler, TX, for a Free Consultation
At Disaster Response, we understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with mold issues. Our team is committed to providing you with the highest level of service and support during this challenging time. We approach every situation with professionalism, care, and urgency.
Our mold remediation specialists will work diligently to identify the source of the mold, safely remove it, and implement measures to prevent its return. When your home's safety and your family's well-being are at stake, don't settle for anything less than the best—choose Disaster Response today.
Contact Your Emergency
Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Tyler, TX
VOTING LOCATIONS: Where to vote in East Texas on Election Day
Daisy Escatelhttps://www.ketk.com/news/your-local-election-hq/voting-locations-where-to-vote-in-east-texas-on-election-day/
TYLER, Texas (KETK) — Election day is here, and with thousands of East Texans expected to cast their ballot today, KETK has compiled a list of polling locations to make the voting process a little easier. East Texas polling stations prepare for Election Day According to ...
TYLER, Texas (KETK) — Election day is here, and with thousands of East Texans expected to cast their ballot today, KETK has compiled a list of polling locations to make the voting process a little easier.
According to NBC News, 77.3 million mail-in and early in-person votes were casted nationally and in Texas nearly 9 million casted their vote ahead of election day. Today, that number is expected to skyrocket.
Polling locations will be open nationwide from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and East Texans can find the closet polling location near them down below:
ANDERSON COUNTY
ANGELINA COUNTY
BOWIE COUNTY
CAMP COUNTY
CASS COUNTY
CHEROKEE COUNTY
FRANKLIN COUNTY
GREGG COUNTY
HARRISON COUNTY
HENDERSON COUNTY
HOPKINS COUNTY
HOUSTON COUNTY
MARION COUNTY
MORRIS COUNTY
NACOGDOCHES COUNTY
PANOLA COUNTY
POLK COUNTY
RAINS COUNTY
RUSK COUNTY
SABINE COUNTY
SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY
SHELBY COUNTY
First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall at 175 Faulkville Road
SMITH COUNTY
TRINITY COUNTY
UPSHUR COUNTY
VAN ZANDT COUNTY
WOOD COUNTY
Editor’s Note: The above video shows KXAN News’ top morning headlines from Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Everything’s bigger in Texas — including debt.
Online platform LendingTree named Austin the most debt-ridden metro in the country, analyzing anonymous credit reports from approximately 210,000 users in the 50 largest U.S. metros. When looking at nonmortgage debt — which included auto loans, student loans, credit cards, personal loans and other types of debt — LendingTree reported a per-person average of $45,920 in debt for Austin residents.
Within that figure, Austinites’ average debt broke down into:
LendingTree experts said Austin’s current city infrastructure leaning largely car-centric aided to the higher auto loan debt, particularly when paired with high interest rates and increased auto costs. On the student loan front, LendingTree’s report pointed to Austin having a highly educated population as well as robust industry jobs in the science and technology fields, which often spell out higher education attainment and related debt.
“As it has grown so rapidly over the years, Austin has become a far more expensive place to live than it used to be,” said Matt Schulz, LendingTree’s chief credit analyst, in the report.
Austin wasn’t the only Texas city with high debt levels. LendingTree’s Top 10 metro breakdown included four Texas cities in the rankings:
The top metros with the least nonmortgage debt ranked as follows:
LendingTree’s study noted high-earning jobs as an explanation behind top rankings in communities like San Jose, San Francisco and New York, while other cities like Louisville had some of the lowest average credit card debt levels nationally.
The full analysis is available online.
Texas women prepare vs USC and UT-Tyler as they attempt to end Final Four drought
Danny Davishttps://www.statesman.com/story/sports/college/longhorns/womens-basketball/2024/10/31/texas-womens-basketball-hosts-ut-tyler-for-final-exhibition-game/75900588007/
Even though she was raised as a Longhorns fan, it's unlikely that senior guard Shay Holle remembers anything about the last time that the Texas women's basketball team reached the Final Four. Holle, after all, had not yet turned 2 years old when Stacy Stephens, Heather Schreiber and Jamie Carey led Jody Conradt's squad to the national semifinals in Atlanta.Holle, however, remembers plenty about Texas just missing out o...
Even though she was raised as a Longhorns fan, it's unlikely that senior guard Shay Holle remembers anything about the last time that the Texas women's basketball team reached the Final Four. Holle, after all, had not yet turned 2 years old when Stacy Stephens, Heather Schreiber and Jamie Carey led Jody Conradt's squad to the national semifinals in Atlanta.
Holle, however, remembers plenty about Texas just missing out on Final Four berths.
She was a first-year reserve when an upstart Texas team ended the 2020-21 pandemic season with an Elite Eight loss to South Carolina. One year later, Holle started as Stanford bested UT in the same round of the NCAA Tournament. Texas and Holle again reached the Elite Eight last season as a No. 1 seed, but North Carolina State prevented the Longhorns from advancing.
"Off the bat, it has been frustrating. You have to take a step back and be like, 'OK, I have been to three Elite Eights in the past four years, which is obviously super special and something that not a lot of people can say,'" Holle said this week. "I think it fuels our fire a little bit. I think we always remember those games."
National championship is the ultimate goal at Texas this season
Holle is correct. Those recent shortcomings definitely haven't been forgotten at Texas.
When asked earlier this month about the team's goals for the upcoming season, All-American candidate Madison Booker replied that "No. 1 is to get past that (Elite Eight) hump right there."
Booker later insisted that the biggest goal for the Longhorns is to win a national championship. Unsurprisingly, those ambitions are shared by many players on a team that opens this season as the No. 4 team in both the USA Today Coaches Poll and Associated Press rankings.
"National championship, that's always a goal," senior Taylor Jones said.
"The ultimate goal is to win a national championship," shared senior Laila Phelia.
Stated freshman Jordan Lee: "I would definitely say nothing short of a national championship (is the goal)."
USC, UT-Tyler provide preseason tests for Texas
The NCAA will crown its next champion in Tampa in April. Thus the road to the Final Four for Texas begins Nov. 10, when the Longhorns welcome Southeast Missouri State to Moody Center for their season opener.
Texas, though, has already gotten some work in.
The Longhorns participated in a closed-door scrimmage with USC two weekends ago, and UT head coach Vic Schaefer reported Phelia and freshman guard Bryanna Preston looked good against the third-ranked Trojans. Schaefer said it was evident that USC, which opens its season Nov. 4, had been practicing longer than Texas before adding that "we showed some competitive spirit. At the same time, I also think it showed we've got some things to address."
Last week, Texas held an intrasquad scrimmage at Moody Center. Preston once again shined, and Texas fans got their first extended look at senior guard Rori Harmon following last year's season-ending knee injury. During the second half of the scrimmage, Texas rallied to tie a team of male practice players.
"It's so early in the season, we're still trying to get chemistry and all of those things," Holle said. "Obviously, I feel like the main thing you want to see is just the competitive spirit. I think that was definitely there in both scrimmages we've had."
The final preseason tune-up for Texas will take place this Thursday night when it hosts UT-Tyler in an exhibition game. The Patriots play on the Division II level and went 27-9 last season.
Will Thursday's exhibition game be competitive? Probably not. Under Schaefer, Texas has won its last four public exhibitions by an average of 52.3 points.
But that doesn't mean that the Longhorns won't get something out of playing on Halloween.
"I want to see us take care of the ball. I want to see us defend really hard, play really hard," Schaefer said. "And again, it's execution. It's playing at a pace. I think we learned in the first scrimmage with USC, we didn't like our pace, and so playing with pace, both out of transition as well as on the half-court, I just think we've got to continue to work on that piece. We've got depth. I want to be that team that just wears you down, and my teams typically do that and I think we've got the personnel now."
Follow the American-Statesman on Facebook and X for more. Your subscription makes work like this possible. Get access to all of our best content with this tremendous offer.
East Texas energy producers discuss hopes for next presidential administration
Michael Richardsonhttps://www.kltv.com/2024/11/05/east-texas-energy-producers-discuss-hopes-next-presidential-administration/
TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - Depending on who wins the presidential election, the future of energy policy in America may impact producers across the Lone Star State, including in East Texas.For instance, if elected, former President Donald Trump has said he would exit the Paris Climate Agreement. If Vice President Kamala Harris secures the White House, the United States is expected to remain in the agreement. Trump said he will continue to invest in fossil fuels, while Harris says her administration will invest in clean energy.936,476...
TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - Depending on who wins the presidential election, the future of energy policy in America may impact producers across the Lone Star State, including in East Texas.
For instance, if elected, former President Donald Trump has said he would exit the Paris Climate Agreement. If Vice President Kamala Harris secures the White House, the United States is expected to remain in the agreement. Trump said he will continue to invest in fossil fuels, while Harris says her administration will invest in clean energy.
936,476 people worked in the energy sector in Texas in 2022.
Speaking at an oil fracking location at his ranch near Carthage, President of the East Texas Gas Producers Association, Cliff Todd, said “If we see one president coming in, we’re gonna see ‘drill baby, drill’ happen again.” Trump has used the phrase over the course of the campaign.
Under the Biden administration, America has reached record levels of oil production, averaging 12.9 million barrels of crude oil per day last year. That follows President Joe Biden’s decision to revoke permits for the Keystone XL pipeline shortly after entering office. The project would have carried oil nearly 1,200 miles from Alberta to Nebraska.
“After the board rooms of the large oil and gas companies started picking up on, ‘well this is the way they’re going,’ I think it hurt a lot of future investments,” said Todd.
“Under the Trump administration he relieved policies,” said Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian. “I’m against many of the additional policies instead of restricting the government or restricting unfair competition.”
Jeff Harris, General Manager of the Delek US Tyler Refinery, said he wants the federal government to allow more oil and gas exploration in Texas and increase fuel transportation using pipelines. He hopes more environmental regulations are not put in place.
“We’re probably at the point, however, where the clean air and the clean water folks, anything we add to that to now is going to be extraordinarily expensive for the industry and may put people out of business,” Harris said. “It will require significant amounts of capital investment for the refineries in the United States to meet substantially increased regulation.” According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, there were “132 operable petroleum refineries in the United States” on Jan. 1 of this year.
Rhetoric is another concern for Harris and Todd.
“It is harder to hire in our industry when the federal government treats our industry as an enemy,” Harris added. “Using terms like ‘Big Oil’ and things like that is not very helpful to us.”
“There’s a lot of rhetoric about anti-frack,” Todd added. “We don’t need those types of talk and slowing down the oil and gas industry.”
On the other side of oil and gas are renewable energy solutions, including solar. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, Texas ranked first in solar capacities installed last year. Texas’ solar energy is projected to grow by over 50 gigawatts over the next five years, which is similarly ranked number one.
Owner of EasTex Solar, Cal Morton, said he does not want much from the federal government, with his concern being on a state level, such as imposing limits on solar energy.
“I didn’t think we would be at this stage this soon, that in 2024, 2025 that we could install a solar system for the price that we can do that nowadays, namely on the back of solar panel prices being so much less today than they were 10 years ago, 15 years ago,” Morton said. “We’re in a good place.”
“I think we will have more wind, solar, I hope we have more nuclear,” Jeff Harris said. “I think it’s just the way we’re evolving. Fossil fuels may or may not last forever, you’ve got to have an alternative.”
Copyright 2024 KLTV. All rights reserved.
Cumberland Academy cuts staff due to budget shortfall
Jennifer Scotthttps://tylerpaper.com/news/education/cumberland-academy-cuts-staff-due-to-budget-shortfall/article_414ab58a-979c-11ef-a984-5bd9be7cf27a.html
A lack of funding led to layoffs at Cumberland Academy in Tyler, the school said in a media statement.Cumberland Academy laid off a total of 50 teachers, aides, and nursing staff as part of budget cuts aimed at addressing a significant financial deficit, according to Superintendent Charles Pulliam.The academy has implemented strategic budget adjustments to “manage a $2 million shortfall resulting from the state’s ongoing funding freeze, the end of federal COVID relief funding, inflationary pressures, and rising cost...
A lack of funding led to layoffs at Cumberland Academy in Tyler, the school said in a media statement.
Cumberland Academy laid off a total of 50 teachers, aides, and nursing staff as part of budget cuts aimed at addressing a significant financial deficit, according to Superintendent Charles Pulliam.
The academy has implemented strategic budget adjustments to “manage a $2 million shortfall resulting from the state’s ongoing funding freeze, the end of federal COVID relief funding, inflationary pressures, and rising costs,” Pulliam said in a statement to the Tyler Morning Telegraph.
Pulliam called the budget adjustments “necessary actions.” The approved measures include “reassignments, consolidations, staff reductions, and a modest salary adjustment for all staff members.”
“These steps balance immediate financial needs with our commitment to maintaining high-quality education for our students,” Pulliam said.
The changes include strategic reassignments, consolidations of positions, attrition and staff reductions and realignments.
In total, 50 positions out of just over 300 have been eliminated, which Pulliam said is “right-sizing the school faculty and staff to the number of students we are serving.”
Employees affected by the layoffs are being offered severance packages, are eligible for rehire, and will receive transition assistance during this period, according to Pulliam.
Cumberland Academy is a public, tuition-free charter school. It started as a private elementary school founded by Dr. Jim Cotton and Mrs. Cotton more than 20 years ago but was turned into a charter school in 1998. Later it expanded to include a middle school and then a high school.
In Texas, independent school districts typically receive about 55% of their funding from local property taxes and the remaining 45% from state sources such as the sales tax and proceeds from oil and gas, according to the Texas Public Charter Schools Association. However, by contrast, charter schools receive 100% of their funding from state sources. Unlike ISDs, they have no authority to levy local taxes and receive no local tax funds.
Charter schools do not receive more taxpayer funding than ISDs, the Texas Public Charter Schools Association says. Overall, charters receive $676 less per student than ISDs, according to the Texas Education Agency.
Parents of students at Cumberland Academy have expressed disappointment and frustration with the school. Through social media comments and "rants" on community pages, parents are not happy about what they say was a swift and unexpected decision.
Email*
Select Newsletters to Sign Up For
News Updates
Breaking News
Sports Digest
Obituaries and Death Notices
Jennifer Blake, a parent of three children in the charter school system, spoke to our news partners at CBS19 about the sudden changes at Cumberland.
"My daughter is in the high school. She showed up to a classroom that had a note on the door where her teacher advised that he was released, and no one was there to cover the class," Blake said. "... It's just concerning as to how it's going to affect our children and their educational endeavor here at Cumberland."
Blake expressed shock of how quickly the decision was made and shared with the staff and parents, citing a lack of "proper notice."
Additionally, the changes are having an effect on the students.
"Our kids are feeling the effect — watching teachers walk out crying, hugging teachers," Blake said. "... They didn't think about the emotional effect that it would have on our children."
Blake says she's been an advocate for Cumberland for the last 10 years, but now she's feeling hurt.
"To see this going on is disheartening, and it also tells me a lot of the things that I've heard in the past that I've overlooked because I've been an advocate, are coming to pass," Blake said. "I'm just very concerned as a parent that it's affecting our children and their education and the mere fact that they didn't have a plan in place. Perhaps they do, but it's not showing that they have a plan in place when children are showing up to classrooms that are empty or classrooms that are not attended to."
She said with this change happening in the middle of the school year, students "have to readapt," which will affect their academics and overall learning and social experiences at school.
Blake added, "Don't get me wrong — I love the school, and I've loved the mission throughout the year, but I sincerely believe that the vision has changed."
Pulliam was appointed as superintendent in May. The school said in a previous statement that he has demonstrated leadership in various roles over the years. In a previous role as Chief Development Officer at Life School of Dallas, Pulliam led multiple departments and oversaw the development of a comprehensive learning and performance management system, which earned a $4.6 million implementation grant. His leadership helped increase the organization’s revenue from $35 million to $70 million over six years, the school previously said.