Indiana Schools:  

Reducing Exposure to Pests and Pesticides

Indiana has been operating under a model policy adopted by the Indiana School Board Association (ISBA) on March 7, 2001.  This policy was also endorsed by the Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents and the Association of Indiana School Business Officials.  It was also supported by the Indiana Non-Public School Association.  How is your school district doing?

This policy revises an earlier policy published by the organizations on June 16, 2000.  Both policies are derived from a policy adopted by the Indiana Pesticide Review Board on December 14, 1999.  The Indiana Pesticide Review Board has not updated its policy.  

Sound confusing?  For those who want the details, check out the timeline.  Otherwise, keep the following in mind.

1. Refer to the March 7, 2001 ISBA Policy.  It is quite good.  Staff must be trained.  Pesticides must not be applied when children are around.  And parents and staff who ask for notice must get advance notice of pesticide applications.   
2. Recognize that Purdue University has an EPA & IDEM-funded technical support program to help schools comply.  Contact Al Fournier Al_Fournier@entm.purdue.edu at (765) 496-7520.  Or visit their webpage.  It is narrowly focused on IPM in schools and not the broader policy though.
3. Check out IKE's webpage to find out if your school district:
   1. Has adopted the policy?  Only Zionsville, New Durhan and Milan have rejected the policy.
   2. Has any staff trained on integrated pest management?
   3. Has any staff licensed as pest control operators?
   4. Has invited parents to be notified of pesticide usage?
4. Keep an eye out for federal legislation.  Check out Beyond Pesticides for the best update. Indiana's approach may be a national model.