The Freeport Area School District uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach for managing insects, rodents, and weeds. Our goal is to protect every student from pesticide exposure by using an IPM approach to pest management. Our IPM approach focuses on making the school building and grounds an unfavorable habitat for these pests by removing food and routine cleaning and maintenance. We routinely monitor the school building and grounds to detect any pests that are present. Pest sightings are reported to our IPM coordinator who evaluates the pest problem and determines the appropriate pest management techniques to address the problem. The techniques can include increased sanitation, modifying storage practices, sealing entry points and physically removing pests.
From time to time, it may be necessary to use chemicals to manage a pest problem. Chemicals will only be used when necessary, and will not be routinely applied. When chemicals are used, the school will try to use the least toxic products when possible. Applications will be made only when people do not have access to the area(s) being treated. Notices will be posted in these areas 72 hours prior to application and for two days following the application.
Parents or guardians of students enrolled in the school may request prior notification of specific pesticide applications made at the school. To receive notification, you must be placed on the school’s notification registry. This can be done by notifying the building principal in writing. Please note that because it is updated annually, parents must submit a letter to the school every year if they wish to be placed on this registry. Include your name, your child’s/children’s names(s), address, telephone number, and email address.
If a chemical application must be made to control an emergency pest problem, notice will be provided to any parent or guardian who has requested such notification in writing. Exemptions to this notification include disinfectants and antimicrobial products, self-containerized baits placed in areas not accessible to students, and gel type baits placed in cracks, crevices or voids. If you have any questions, please contact the Maintenance Office at (724) 295-5141 ext. 251.