City School Atuarfik Samuel Kleinschmidt Closes Due to Mold Concerns
The Atuarfik Samuel Kleinschmidt (ASK) school in Nuuk has announced a temporary closure following the discovery of mold in several classrooms. This information was shared by Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq on their official website.
Mayor Avaaraq Olsen, representing the Inuit Ataqatigiit party, assures the public that the municipality is prioritizing the health and safety of both students and staff. “We act swiftly and responsibly,” Olsen emphasized. “The well-being of our children and employees always comes first.”
While acknowledging the community’s concerns, the mayor expressed confidence in the municipality’s efforts to minimize disruption to students’ education. “We understand this situation raises worries, but we are doing everything we can to ensure that classes can continue without interruption,” she stated.
The decision to close ASK follows a similar precaution taken with another city school, Upernaviarsuk (USK), which temporarily shut its doors in September due to comparable findings.
Labeling this move a necessary “security measure,” the municipality aims to create a safe learning environment for its students.
Early Responses to Indoor Climate Survey
Before the autumn holidays, students at ASK were advised to pack their belongings, and earlier this week, Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq communicated that the situation regarding the school’s future remained unclear as they awaited crucial results from an indoor climate investigation.
Despite initial uncertainties, the closure of the school has now been confirmed. In light of the circumstances, the municipality has arranged for students to be relocated to alternative facilities to ensure the continuity of their education. Mayor Olsen has called for understanding and cooperation from parents and staff during this unanticipated challenge. “We ask for your patience and support in navigating this unexpected situation. Working together, we can ensure a safe environment for our children,” she concluded.
Interestingly, this announcement coincides with Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq’s recent settlement with the Icelandic construction company Istak. Istak has been involved in the construction of Atuarfik Inussuk, a new school that has remained vacant for an extended period. The settlement anticipates that this facility will open its doors by August 2026.