Ill Librarian Sues School District for $2 Million

By Sophia Brink

Published on January 30, 2008

Angela Page, a former librarian at Liberty Middle School, filed for workers' compensation in June 2004, after developing a condition known as multiple chemical sensitivity. She didn’t receive workers’ compensation for the 2005-2006 school year until in April 2007, after winning an appeal. Further appeals have prevented Page from collecting compensation for the period of time between June 2006 and December 11, 2007, when she was fired.

Multiple chemical sensitivity is a debilitating condition characterized by the inability to tolerate a wide range of chemicals, including ones commonly used in deodorants, detergents, and other products containing synthetic fragrances. Page claims her condition resulted from exposure to mold caused by a leaky roof at the library where she worked.

In December 2005, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health reported health hazards at Liberty Middle School, including leaks and mold.

Page proposed a plan that would enable her to perform work for the school at home, creating classroom Web pages, writing lesson plans, and tutoring students via computer. The school district rejected her plan, opting to fire her instead.

Page claims in her suit that she lost her savings during her fight to obtain workers’ compensation. She is currently at risk of losing her home.

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