Youngstown & Mahoning Valley - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an order to Accel Charter Schools Network on Friday to inspect and abate asbestos and lead paint concerns at three charter schools in the Valley.

According to a press release, Accel was ordered to inspect and address issues involving asbestos and lead paint concerns at the Youngstown Academy of Excellence, the Nile Preparatory Academy and and the STEAM Academy of Warren.

Accel was ordered to restrict access to the buildings, but certain areas can begin to open once testing confirms the area is free of asbestos and lead paint hazards.

Additionally, Accel was ordered to notify parents of the concerns and fully assess and abate the asbestos and/or lead paint hazards.

The order sets timelines to ensure that any needed inspection, abatement and clearance work is complete prior to letting students, faculty and staff back in the affected areas. The goal is to have this work completed before the start of the 2024/25 school year.

The EPA is working with state and local health officials to establish resources for affected families. The Youngstown City Health District hosted a free blood testing event June 25 for students who attended the Academy of Excellence.

Those concerned of lead or asbestos exposure in their child should contact their pediatrician or primary health care provider for information on blood testing.

21 News has asked if any schools that have already submitted tests for lead and asbestos concerns have been given the green light to reopen and we're waiting to hear back.