How is Modesto City Schools district working to improve air quality in its facilities?

Did you know if you live in Stanislaus County, the air you breathe may put your health at risk? The American Lung Association gave the county an F grade for particle pollution in its annual State of the Air report card , and air quality concerns were noted in a report by Stanislaus Sustainable Communities Coalition earlier this year.

As the county struggles with air quality, Modesto City Schools continues to combat this issue in its classrooms and facilities.

The district uses MERV 13 filters in the HVAC systems as recommended by the California Air Resource Board. The filters are high on the MERV (minimum efficiency reporting values) rating system and can protect against potential allergens and pollutants. The district also has portable air-cleaning devices in all classrooms, offices and cafeterias.

Adittionally, Modesto City Schools collaborated with UC Merced to install Purple Air Monitors at all 34 school sites and its bus transportation yard. These monitors provide real-time air quality data that is accessible on the district’s air quality monitoring page.

When air quality reaches an AQI of 150 or above, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups and children, the district limits outdoor activity. If it reaches 200, deemed very unhealthy for all groups, the district will assess the situation for potential school closures or shifts to remote learning.

All air quality concerns are communicated to parents and staff through ParentSquare, the approved communication app for teachers, parents, students, school sites and the district.

Jamie Holt, the chief communications officer for San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District , said wildfire smoke can vary every year. She said this year has been good, with no smoke impacts in the Modesto area, but that could change at any point.

Peak fire season in Northern California usually begins in June or July and runs through late October or November, according to Western Fire Chiefs Association. Nut harvesting season begins around August and runs until late fall.

Holt said that the particulate matter from nut harvesting is larger than the matter from wildfires. These particles are heavier and don’t move far beyond their localized area or travel deeply into the lungs or bloodstream. She said the particles subside relatively quickly once harvesting has ceased.

Wildfire smoke can lodge deep into the lungs and move into the bloodstream and has been linked to respiratory issues, dementia and cardiovascular issues. This is especially sensitive for those with preexisting conditions, the elderly or children.

“When we are not seeing huge wildfire impacts, the biggest daily source of pollution in the Modesto area, and the Valley as a whole, are mobile sources including trucks, on- and off-road equipment, trains, planes, passenger vehicles and other ‘things with wheels that move around,’” Holt said.

The school district also has programs to counter other pollutants, including an electric bus fleet, solar panels in high school parking lots and outdoor SOLE (sustainable outdoor learning environment) facilities, learning spaces that teach students about sustainability and renewable energy.