Mice Infestation at Albuquerque Middle School Raises Health Concerns
A severe mice infestation at James Monroe Middle School in Albuquerque has led to health concerns among parents and staff, prompting grievances against APS.
ALBUQUERQUE, Oct 22: James Monroe Middle School in Albuquerque faces health concerns from a mice infestation that has alarmed staff and parents. Reports indicate the presence of droppings, urine, and dead rodents across the campus.
A parent, Ashleigh Schuh, said her son has stopped eating lunch at school after learning of the rodent sightings. “He told me that he hasn’t been eating lunch at school because supposedly there were rodents found in the cafeteria,” Schuh said, describing the level of infestation with mouse traps and droppings in classrooms.
Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) acknowledged the issue was reported on September 24 and claimed technicians have been on-site daily. However, a staff member, who requested anonymity, shared troubling photos and accounts of the infestation. They stated, “We’re seeing mice droppings, we’re seeing mice. One of our teachers had their belongings destroyed and chewed up by mice. Everything is contaminated.” Photos show extensive mouse droppings and urine stains.
Dr. Abinash “Ash” Achrekar, a health expert, warned that mice infestations can lead to serious health risks, including respiratory issues and illnesses like hantavirus, particularly affecting children with asthma or allergies.
Communication between the Albuquerque Teachers Federation (ATF) and APS revealed a grievance was submitted on September 16, prior to the work order submission. ATF President Sarah Hager reported that the situation has escalated to a Level 3 grievance, which may involve legal action.
While APS claims conditions have improved due to ongoing efforts, staff and parents remain concerned about cleanliness. Schuh emphasized the need for a safe environment, saying, “There are things that people, APS can do to remedy that.” APS has committed to monitoring the situation closely.
As the community grapples with this issue, no definitive resolution has emerged, but both APS and ATF express willingness to work together to ensure a safer learning environment.
