A California math teacher who spent decades educating students died after prolonged exposure to diesel fumes and toxic dust from construction equipment operating directly outside her classroom window, according to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by her widower.

Construction Proceeded Despite Environmental Warnings

Judith, 74, taught at a San Luis Obispo County school where a pool construction project began in August 2016 just feet from her classroom. Environmental officials had warned before work started that construction activities should be scheduled outside school hours to protect students and staff from harmful exposure. Workers allegedly ignored these recommendations, operating heavy diesel-powered equipment during regular class time. The complaint states dust and fumes penetrated Judith’s classroom even when windows remained closed.

Husband of Central Coast teacher who died sues pool contractor https://t.co/l3gS1iFOMJ pic.twitter.com/Bns93nfhap

— SFGATE (@SFGate) August 25, 2026

The teacher sought emergency medical treatment in September 2016, just weeks after construction began. She returned to her classroom the following day but immediately struggled with memory problems, unable to recall student names or follow her own lesson plans. Medical professionals later diagnosed her with occupational asthma and a progressive cognitive disorder that a neurologist directly linked to the 2016 toxic exposure.

Eight-Year Decline Ends in Death

Judith’s condition deteriorated steadily over eight years. By 2024, she had lost the ability to walk, speak, or control basic bodily functions, requiring round-the-clock care from family and medical staff. She died in August 2024. Her husband Edwin now seeks damages for wrongful death, negligence, design defects, and punitive damages against the contractor responsible for the two-year construction project.

District and Contractor Respond

Nadar Inc., the construction company named in the lawsuit, told the San Luis Obispo Tribune it had not been served with legal papers. Ryan Pinkerton, assistant superintendent of business services for the San Luis Coastal School District, confirmed Nadar handled the construction project. He noted that injured employees typically pursue claims through California’s workers’ compensation system, though reporters could not verify whether Judith filed such a complaint before her death. The case raises questions about construction safety protocols at active school sites and accountability when environmental warnings are allegedly disregarded.