Chemicals, Herbicides, and Pesticides

According to San José Unified policy, the least toxic pest management practices are the preferred method of managing pests. To reduce children’s exposure to toxic pesticides, the district takes the necessary steps pursuant to state law to adopt the least toxic pest management practices at all sites. The district’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program begins with education, habitat management, alteration of maintenance activities, physical, geological, and then chemical controls. Regular monitoring may involve visual observation, use of tracking powders, baiting and trapping; in any case, this method will be used continuously and regularly.

When using chemical control for pest management, the district will use a licensed pest control company to administer pesticides. A notice will be posted 72 hours before treatment is administered, except in cases where an emergency application may be necessary. At preschool and kindergarten sites, the notice will be posted 96 hours prior to treatment. Parents/guardians may request prior notification of individual pesticide applications at their school. If you would like to be notified every time we apply a pesticide/herbicide or if you have any questions, please contact our Operations Department at 408-535-6166. Once we have your request on file, we will mail or email you notifications prior to pesticide application use.