This article is part of a partnership between The Mendocino Voice and nonprofit newsroom EdSource to bring relevant education-related news to Mendocino County readers. Learn more about EdSource here.
MENDOCINO CO., 11/3/24 – The California Department of Education issued new guidance this month for schools on how to protect student health during wildfires.
The guidance is intended to help school districts, county offices of education and charter schools make decisions about whether to cancel classes or modify recess or other school activities when there is wildfire smoke. The department suggests school districts make those decisions based both on air quality and on the quality of air filtration systems in school buildings.
“It is vital that we understand the harm of wildfire smoke and our schools have a clear plan for how to safely navigate these unfortunate circumstances,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond in a press release. “These updated guidelines help schools develop a clear plan of action that encourages coordination with their local health and air agencies. Coupled with the CDE’s other emergency preparedness efforts, our LEAs have the support they need so they can continue to keep students safe.”
This article first appeared in EdSource here.