I got a response from the School District. It’s a mild brush off.
I need beekeepers from around the world to call this spraying out for what it is: Unnecessary (No Zika here!) and detrimental to our pollinators!
Mr. Thanepohn,
Thank you for sharing your concerns.
CCSD was not contacted by the Cherokee Tribune about the article in question. Had we been contacted, we would have corrected the comment stating materials would be sent home with students… CCSD is not sending any materials home with students, as that would violate School Board Policy prohibiting such marketing.
Following the receipt of your email, the Superintendent immediately halted the service to allow for CCSD investigation.
Assistant Superintendent Bill Sebring this morning met with the company owner and partners, who explained that your concerns appear to stem from the Tribune’s use of a stock photo. This stock photo from the company’s website (of treatment in a Cobb County neighborhood) shows a treatment style and chemical different than what is occurring at CCSD schools. The treatment at CCSD schools uses chemicals not associated with bee colony collapse, and the application is on the ground in areas where water collects… not onto flowering plants and shrubs that bees frequent. All CCSD schools received an initial application during spring break; inspection and follow-up applications are scheduled to begin April 30… all applications are conducted outside of school hours.
The owner informed Mr. Sebring that they had been in contact with you to provide you with accurate information and assistance; the company also is attending a meeting with local beekeepers tomorrow to answer their questions.
Social media is great - use it!