Ione Elementary Battles Extreme Flea Infestation, Prompts Urgent School Closure

A local elementary school in Amador County, Ione Elementary, found itself in an unprecedented battle against an “extreme” flea infestation, leading to an unexpected three-day closure. The sudden outbreak, which prompted the Ione Unified School District to take swift and decisive action, left parents, students, and staff grappling with the tiny, unwelcome guests.

The alarm was first raised when a significant number of students and staff members began reporting mysterious and irritating bites.

What started as an isolated complaint quickly escalated into a widespread concern, pointing towards a much larger, unseen problem within the school's premises. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the district promptly called in pest control specialists to investigate the unsettling reports.

The findings from the pest control inspection confirmed everyone's worst fears: Ione Elementary was indeed experiencing a severe flea infestation.

The discovery necessitated immediate and drastic measures to protect the health and well-being of the school community. Superintendent Michael D. Carey, leading the district's response, announced the difficult decision to close the school from Tuesday through Thursday.

This temporary closure was not taken lightly; it was a critical window for an intensive, professional deep cleaning and pest eradication effort.

The goal was to completely eliminate the flea population, ensuring that the environment would be safe and hygienic for everyone upon return. Communication was key during this challenging period, with the district diligently notifying parents about the closure and the reasons behind it, keeping them informed every step of the way.

The swift action underscores the district's commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of its students and employees.

While dealing with such an infestation is undoubtedly a stressful and disruptive experience, the decisive response from the Ione Unified School District showcased their dedication to maintaining a secure and conducive learning environment. The community looks forward to a successful resolution, with classes scheduled to resume Friday, allowing students to return to a clean and pest-free campus.