SEARCHSLUSD schools can stay open during most instances when smoke from wildfires is present in the East Bay. All classrooms are upgraded with heating and cooling systems that use MERV 13 filtration systems. When necessary, students may have lunch, recess, and PE indoors, as they would during a rainy day.
Determination of AQI Levels
To determine local air quality, district staff monitor the following regional measurement systems:
When the air is particularly bad, district staff check these sites on the hour so as to be able to communicate accurate information to the sites. District staff also consult with surrounding districts and the Alameda County Office of Education to determine what steps to take to minimize the risk for students and staff.
Communication
All staff and families will receive a notification about pending school closures due to high AQI levels on ParentSquare and staff emails. Closure information will be posted on all school websites and the district will post notifications on social media.
Resources
Air Quality Index (AQI) Resources
- Air Quality – School Disaster and Emergency Management (CA Dept of Education): California Department of Education Air Quality Index info & resources
- Air Quality Index (AQI) Info
- AirNow.gov: Current Air Quality Data and Fire & Smoke Map
- Bay Area Air Quality Management District
- Spare the Air
Extreme Heat Preparedness
- Weather Conditions
- Hot Weather Safety
- CDC Extreme Heat Resources
- Extreme Heat Resources
- Extreme Heat Information Sheet
- California ISO Issues Flex Alert
- PG&E Issues Flex Alert
- For the nearest Cooling Centers in Alameda County
Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) Information & Resources
Additional Resources for Families
- CalEPA: “Protect Your Lungs from Wildfire Smoke or Ash” (PDF)
- Alameda County Public Health Department: “Protecting Your Health During Wildfire Season”
- US EPA, American Academy of Pediatrics: “Protecting Children from Wildfire Smoke and Ash”
- California Department of Public Health: “How to Choose the Correct Mask for Wildfire Smoke”