Ask Nancy
School Environmental Health and Safety Program Manager,
Washington State Department of Health
Nancy Bernard provides technical assistance, resources, and training for local health jurisdiction and K-12 school staff. Her focus includes IAQ, asthma triggers, integrated pest management, noise control, lighting, communicable and zoonotic diseases, cleaning, disinfection, playgrounds, lab/art/shop safety, hazardous materials, and school design. She has a MPH in Environmental Health Sciences from Tulane University, a BS in Environmental Health and a BA in Health Education from the University of Washington, and served on the Lake Washington School District Board of Directors 1997 – 2017. Additionally Nancy taught hands-on science at Faith Lutheran School in Redmond for 5 years and for 3 years at the Bear Creek School.
Ask Nancy June 2018
Summer is approaching and many schools face risks from wildfires. So, for June's Ask Nancy, we look at questions about how to be Preparing for Wildfire Smoke. Question: Is there a checklist for schools in wildfire zones that will help us get prepared for...
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‘Ask Nancy’ May 2018: The bugs are back!!
In May, many schools are dealing with various bugs as the spring season gets warmer. So, for this month's Ask Nancy, we look at questions about Pest Control for Schools and how to handle Bee Stings. Question: Our schools wants to deal with pesky bugs like...
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‘Ask Nancy’ April 2018: What should we know about PCBs in schools?
For April, Ask Nancy shares updated tips on reducing exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in schools Question: What are PCBs? Answer: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are chemicals that were manufactured in the United States from...
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Ask Nancy: February 2018 How should schools respond to the flu?
Have you seen all the stories about the seriousness of the flu this year and the school closures? For February's Ask Nancy, we break down precautions against flu and resources for prevention. Question: How can schools protect students and faculty from...
read moreAsk Nancy: January 2018 student stress relating to suicide
This January, a WFIS member school messaged Ask Nancy about resources for student stress as a growing suicide risk factor. Question: Student stress as a risk factor of suicide is a big concern amongst our staff and community. What...
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