Asthma is the top cause of absenteeism in U.S. public K–12 schools. In Oregon, common school pests such as mice, cockroaches and flies can trigger asthma and spread diseases including E. coli, Lyme disease and salmonellosis.
By helping schools prevent pests and reduce pesticide use, OSU Extension’s School IPM Program is improving health and safety for more than 540,000 Oregon students.
Pesticide use and misuse can add short- and long-term health risks. School districts also face challenges identifying the root causes of pest problems. A 25% annual turnover among facilities managers and integrated pest management coordinators makes consistent pest prevention and response difficult.
The Oregon State University Extension Service School IPM Program was created in response to a 2012 state law requiring school districts to designate an IPM coordinator and provide annual training. The law was informed by research and policy guidance from OSU Extension faculty member Tim Stock, who contributed to legislative working groups beginning in 2008.
To support implementation, OSU Extension built a statewide network of 15 partner organizations and developed model IPM plan templates, annual hands-on training sessions and educational resources. The program website provides training materials, templates and technical guidance for coordinators working to protect student and staff health.
Annual trainings are held at schools across Oregon and focus on real-time pest inspections and prevention strategies. Topics are updated based on evaluations and participant feedback. Participants consistently report that in-person sessions improve learning through hands-on activities, peer exchange and problem-solving.
The program also partnered with the OSU Turf Management Program to support research and training in low-maintenance landscaping, nonchemical weed control and alternatives to herbicides for school grounds and sports fields. Targeted support has also reached federal Head Start and Oregon prekindergarten programs serving vulnerable children.
Expanding reach and results
From 2012 through 2025, OSU Extension trained IPM coordinators from 100% of Oregon’s 197 school districts, representing 1,255 schools and more than 540,000 students. More than 5,200 people participated in over 130 training events statewide.
In 2025 alone, 512 people were trained at 11 events, including coordinators from 194 districts. Of those who completed evaluations, 99.3% reported learning at least one IPM practice to implement, and 90% reported learning three or more practices.
The data show that even experienced coordinators continue to adopt new approaches each year. Many of these practices lead to reduced pest problems and lower pesticide use.
Survey data indicates that more than 60% of districts have reduced pesticide use, and 65% report using low-impact pesticides when needed. Ninety percent of districts use OSU’s model IPM plans to guide their programs. These plans have also been adapted by Tribal schools in EPA Region 9 and informed efforts in other states.
Program and regulatory data also show increased compliance with Oregon’s IPM in schools law over time.
Public value
By helping schools prevent pests and reduce pesticide use, OSU Extension’s School IPM Program is improving health and safety for more than 540,000 Oregon students.
Safer learning environments can reduce asthma triggers, limit exposure to harmful chemicals and support student attendance and success.
The program also helps schools manage resources more effectively while protecting public health and the environment.
