At least 12 Sippican School teachers are reporting that poor air quality in the building is causing migraines, allergic reactions and, in some instances, more serious symptoms.

“I have seen a teacher cough up blood due to the air quality,” said Nicole Boussy, a teacher and member of the school’s Health and Safety Committee.

After hearing from Boussy on Wednesday night, Marion School Committee members directed Facilities Manager Gene Jones to invite state inspectors into the school for a thorough air quality evaluation.

Concerns were raised last year about the air in one wing on the school’s first floor. In response, Jones had tests performed that he said showed no serious problems, but steps were taken to improve the air quality, such as bringing in a scrubber to clear the air. Jones said using the machine was the equivalent of “opening your car windows at sixty miles per hour.”

Jones said custodians quickly address problems as they are reported, such as leaks, standing water and damp ceiling tiles.

“I don’t know what else to do,” Jones said, adding he’s asked peers for solutions. “The biggest thing is the housekeeping and keeping ahead of it as quick as you can to make sure nothing grows.”

Jones and committee members were troubled at the discrepancy between report results and the staff’s ongoing symptoms.

“If there was something that terrible, the first test would have shown something,” said member Michelle Ouellette.

“I think due diligence has been done up to this point,” said Chair Christine Marcolini. “I don’t feel comfortable knowing the staff doesn’t feel comfortable with the air quality in the building.”

Boussy said the Marion Teachers Union hired a lawyer who combed through the results of that initial test and found some areas of concern.

“We’re hoping we can work together and move forward to get some answers,” Boussy said. “This isn’t going away.”

Marcolini suggested a three-pronged approach to finding a solution: ensure repairs are made as soon as possible, perform another test and hire an expert to explain the results.

She assured Boussy the committee shared the staff's concerns.

“Please share with the union we do take this very seriously, and we want them to feel well in the building.”