Cleaning for Covid Classrooms

By Community Health Network

(CU) - If your school is reopening in person this semester, the health of you and your students is top priority. Wearing masks, washing hands and practicing social distancing is going to be the key to a safe school year.

Your school has likely prepped everyone on custodial protocols. Below are quick reminders that may assist with your keeping a clean and safe classroom.

Declutter Your Classroom

You have created your classroom to be a great place for learning, but you might need to make some concessions this year. A lot of common classroom objects can be a hassle to clean and can contribute to the spread of germs.

Here are a few items you might want to consider pulling from your classroom:

• Rugs, especially those with high pile

• Any seating that is not necessary, like bean bag chairs

• Curtains and drapes

• Trash cans with lids — replace them with no-touch waste baskets instead

• Any hands-on items that are not critical for learning

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Making desks and other surfaces clean is a two-step process. Scrub them with soap and water. This will get rid of any dirt or residue that students might leave behind on their desks. Once the surface is clean you can sanitize.

Here is a helpful link with a list of EPA-approved disinfectants proven to kill SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Give each surface a good wipe down between classes. If EPA-approved disinfectants are not available, you can use any 70% alcohol solution instead.

Cleaning Checklist

Every passing period is an opportunity to clean and disinfect. Below are common spots that might need your attention in between classes:

• Doorknobs

• The handles of drawers and cabinets

• Bookshelves

• Shared cubbies

• Light switches

• Art supplies

• Keyboards, tablet screens and other technology

• Faucet handles if your room has a sink

• Water fountains should NOT be used and should be turned off

• Trash bins, especially those holding tissues and paper towels

• Any other hands-on learning materials

• Consider closing off or removing upholstered seating with cushions, pillows or bean bags

Once you have cleaned and sanitized, take a trip to the bathroom. Thoroughly wash your hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before returning to your classroom.

Most importantly, if you or one of your students suspects they may be sick with COVID-19, follow the protocols outlined by your school. Learning is critical for young people, but nothing is more important than everyone’s health. With proper cleaning and sanitizing you can do your part to keep your classroom safe this semester.