The start of the academic year has been the main topic of discussion for months now. And while some districts have opted for a fully online school term, many more explored in-person classes or hybrid options. With that in mind, having the right PPE and other supplies is critical. So here we’ll explore back to school PPE options for students, teachers, and classrooms.
The hardest part of having in-person classes, for both students and teachers, is that even in the best of times. They easily spread illness to their classmates and bring it home to their families. Protecting them in the classroom would take a combination of training, preparation, and the right supplies.
But the reality is that although many states and school districts have said they would provide PPE equipment to those who need it, some teachers are saying they haven’t received it yet and aren’t sure what will be distributed or when it will arrive. Teachers are on the frontline and need all the help they can to continue teaching our kids and keep them safe.
In the meantime, if you’re a teacher, part of the staff of a school that is considering having face-to-face classes, or just a concerned parent, here are the fundamental PPE that teachers, students, and schools need to ensure their and their student’s safety:
- Disposable Masks
- Protective Face Shield
- Hand Sanitizer
- Non-Contact Thermometer
- Disposable Gloves
- Disinfecting Wipes
Other safety supplies to disinfect the classroom and keep it as safe as possible:
- Spray Disinfectant
- Social Distancing Floor Signs
- Disinfectant Fogger/Mister
- Foot or Forearm Door Pulls
Try to get your student to practice preparing their work area each time they sit down or change location. A good set of steps include:
Use hand sanitizer for a minimum of 30 seconds, especially if handwashing opportunities are not present in the classroom.
Adjust their mask to be sure it is covering their mouth and nose. Masks slipping below the nose are the number one mistake we see in all age groups.
Wipe the area down with a disinfecting wipe. Teach students to wipe down anywhere they might touch or anywhere that they will put their belongings like paper or pens.
Keeping students and teachers safe during these unprecedented times is critically important. Having the right supplies (and having enough of those supplies) is the key to stopping the spread of infectious diseases like COVID-19. Stock up on back to school PPE now, just if there is a flare-up as the weather gets colder.