Air Quality
During a fire, it is important that we monitor the PM 2.5. The Placer County public health officer has recommended school closure if this reading is 301-500 or greater.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How will RUSD monitor the air quality?
As air quality conditions change, RUSD officials receive automated notifications alerting them of current air quality conditions. Each hour (beginning at 6 a.m.), RUSD’s departments of Technology and Maintenance and Operations will observe the Lincoln Reporting Area for Whitney High School, Quarry Trail Elementary, and Sunset Ranch Elementary. The Roseville-Rocklin Reporting Area air monitor through AirNow.gov will be observed for the remainder of the schools.
What changes would occur as the AQI drops below the Healthy level?
Please click here to review a breakdown of air quality levels and what actions RUSD would take as the AQI continues to worsen to Hazardous level.
What would cause schools to be closed?
If the air quality reaches a Hazardous Level, then RUSD would close affected campuses. The decision to close schools due to poor air quality will not take place if the school day is in progress; however, students will be kept indoors, as needed. The decision to close schools will be made prior to the start of the school day by the District Office.
Could school sites make their own decisions on whether to cancel after school and extracurricular activities (sports and Visual and Performing Arts) if they deem the air quality to be too poor for their students?
Schools would have electronic access to monitor the air quality to determine whether to move or cancel indoor/outdoor activities. However, the decision to close any school is made by the District Office.
Will RUSD use Distance Learning or Online Learning platforms if in-person instruction is temporarily unavailable due to poor air quality?
No. Any missed instruction days will be made up at a later date unless RUSD is granted a waiver from the California Department of Education.
Will there be Personal Protective Equipment available to school staff in the event of poor air conditions?
Yes, RUSD will provide N95 masks to Maintenance and Operations employees, when appropriate.
How often will staff members find out about the change in the AQI?
School principals will receive communication from the District Office as the AQI changes throughout the day.
