It was encouraging to see that so many parents and others turned out at a meeting about the mold concerns at DiLoreto School . And while there is some consolation in the reports that the air tested well within state and federal standards, parents and others need to continue to be vigilant and ask more questions.

Have school board members, PTO members, parents and the media consulted an allergist to see what levels trigger problems for the growing number of asthmatic and allergic children? Can levels that are "acceptable" still trigger allergies and asthma? "Acceptable" levels for the general public may be different than levels that are problematic for staff and students who are prone to allergies. Just because a level is not considered dangerous may not ensure that it’s not causing trouble for the vulnerable.

Also, has anyone looked at how many teachers, staff and students have been absent – or, as reported, left their jobs – because of respiratory problems? How many people at the school have turned to the dreaded steroids to fight allergies that may be more safely treated by improving the air quality at the school. How do those numbers compare to other schools of the same size?

Just because the air levels at DiLoreto are not considered dangerous, that does not mean the air can’t – and shouldn’t – be improved.