Communicating with Teachers and Staff

To be successful, an IPM program requires a high level of communication and 
cooperation among administration, staff, and the pest management professional. 
Everyone has a part to play in improving pest management in schools and childcare 
facilities.
IPM Roles
School Administrators:

- Ultimate decision makers
- Responsible for IPM policy development
- Designate an IPM Coordinator
- Follow up to assure implementation of pest manager’s recommendations
- Support the staff and pest manager’s IPM efforts

IPM Coordinator:

- Maintains records of all pest sightings by school staff and students
- Serves as the primary contact for the pest control professional 
- Communicates the pest manager's recommendations related to maintenance and 
  sanitation to school staff and administrators 
- Assures that pest management practices are consistent with the IPM policy
- Maintains written records of pest management activities including any pesticide 
   applications
- Serves as a contact person to members of the school community interested in pest 
   management practices
- Evaluates the IPM program on a regular basis

Teachers, staff, and students:

- Report pest sightings to the IPM Coordinator
- Implement the pest manager’s recommendations to reduce pests

Pest Management Professionals:

- Perform monthly inspections and monitor for pest activity
- Recommend repairs, clean up, and maintenance as needed to reduce pest potential
- Identify pests and determine pest management options
- Apply pesticide if needed
- Maintain records of pest management activities and provide copies to the school
IPM Fact Sheets
The following fact sheets may be used with teachers and staff to communicate proper 
IPM practices. These documents are available in PDF format.

Why use IPM?  An introduction to IPM for teachers, staff, or 
parents

IPM Checklist  A list of 12 essential IPM practices 

Classroom Pests  Nonchemical strategies for reducing pest 
problems in classrooms

Pests and Clutter  Why pests and clutter go hand-in-hand and 
some tips for reducing clutter

Trash Management  Reducing pest activity around schools via 
proper handling of food waste

Working with a Pest Control Service  Tips for working with 
a pest control service in an IPM program

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