The mold problem in Austin Public Schools doesn't seem to be going away, but at least this time around, the district is prepared for it.

Mold was discovered in classrooms at Southgate Elementary School after humidity in the carpet caused it to grow.

Money was set aside in case the school needed to clean up a mold problem. The cleanup project at Southgate will cost more than $100,000.

That said, the Minnesota Department of Education may cover the costs eventually.

The goal is to have the project done before the school year starts, which is good news. Mold problems that weren't fixed in time for students caused allergy problems for children at Banfield Elementary last fall.

We're satisfied the school was prepared for the situation this year, but we're also wondering if it could've been prevented in the first place.

Finding out what can prevent mold from growing in the schools will save the district time and money.