Bend-La Pine Schools updates smoke safety policies for students

Bend-La Pine Schools has lowered its Air Quality Index threshold for bringing students indoors from 200 to 151. The policy update, which is already in effect, is designed to protect students from wildfire smoke in Central Oregon.

The school district made the adjustment following a recommendation from the Oregon Health Authority. Under the revised threshold, students will be moved inside sooner when smoke reaches unhealthy levels, affecting recess, sports and other outdoor activities. School administrators will make final decisions based on specific conditions at each campus.

To track air quality conditions across the district, Bend-La Pine Schools relies on a handful of air-quality monitors installed at each facility.

Becca Burda, assistant director of communications at Bend-La Pine Schools, discussed the district's efforts to balance physical activity with health precautions during smoke events.

“It's a delicate balance,” Burda said. “I think when we do have, smoke conditions that go on that are bad for a couple of weeks, we need our kiddos to get outside and get exercise and their energy. But we also need to keep them safe and healthy from the bad air quality.”

Information detailing the updated air quality guidelines can be found on the school district's website.