Los Angeles Unified School District Precautionary Pesticide Policy
The LA Unified School District Integrated Pest Management Policy (IPM) requires the safest and lowest risk approach to controlling pest problems based on the precautionary principle. Established in 1999, and revised in 2002, the policy prioritizes an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach that focuses on long-term prevention with non-chemical methods being given first consideration. It specifies a short list of the safest pesticides, and gives parents the right to know before they are applied on the school grounds. A Pest Management Team provides guidance and verification and recommends resolutions for District policies that conflict with this policy.
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Supporting Documents:
News Release
This California Safe Schools News Release outlines the benefits of the policy including the use of least toxic alternatives, parental right-to-know provisions, and integrated pest management (IPM).
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News Coverage
This Los Angeles Daily news special report of March 26, 2004 provides an historical overview of the policy, including the campaign by Robina Suwol and other parents to develop and pass the initiative. It also covers parental right-to-know provisions and the growing involvement of parents in ensuring the implementation of the Integrated Pest Management policy in schools.
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California Safe Schools Presentation
This power point presentation by Robina Suwol of California Safe Schools provides an overview of the LA policy. Robina led the successful campaign to pass the policy as a parent concerned about the irresponsible use of pesticides at her children’s schools.
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