Chicago Public Schools Covid-19 Reopening

Chicago Public Schools (CPS), the third-largest school district in the United States, is committed to providing a safe, healthy learning environment for its over 400,000 students across 600+ schools. Following the lockdown of all facilities due to COVID-19, CPS aimed to ensure optimal indoor air quality. Specialty Consulting, Inc. (SPC) was tasked with assessing air quality parameters in approximately 20% of all rooms and offices, including temperature, relative humidity, airborne particulates, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide levels. A comprehensive visual inspection was conducted in 100% of the rooms and offices to identify any odors or other environmental concerns.

Temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide readings were obtained using the TSI Q-Trak 7575X, which was calibrated annually according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. PM-10 and PM-2.5 readings were obtained using a Met-One Aerocet 531, also calibrated annually, with daily zero calibrations performed as per manufacturer guidelines.

Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not require or recommend indoor air quality assessments, SPC's efforts provided CPS with crucial data. This data indicated that the mechanical systems, including air filters, were operating as designed, reinforcing CPS's commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for students and staff.