- We are looking for a company that deals in the design of a SPED quiet room. Has anyone had any luck or would recommend or not recommend items? Any information related to this would be great.Question submitted by Anthony Pierce, McGregor Schools
- Roseville Area Schools has a group looking for permission to burn sage in the high school as part of a smudging ritual. Is there anyone out there allowing it and any special precautions that need to be taken. Has it set of fire detection systems? Question submitted by Todd Lieser, Roseville School District
- We are exploring adding on to our building access controls and would like to see how other districts have distributed users of the controls for door schedules.Who do you have set up the initial door schedules?Who do you have change or update door schedules to coincide with events when they arise, snow days, summer school schedules, etc.Any information you can share would be great.Just hit reply to share info.Question submitted by:Tony Ree, New London-Spicer School District
- Who do you use for sports field fertilization and aerating? Or do you do it in-house? If so, would you share your procedure? Thank you.Question submitted by Jeremy Skwira, Pierz ISD 484
- Can anyone shed some light on what requirements exist when relocating modular classroom space on site for occupancy by students and staff? I’ve read through Minnesota DLI information on this topic but also want to check with members for their knowledge and experience in what approvals are required.Question submitted by Mike Hofer, Great Expectations Charter School, Grand Marais, Mn
- Do any of you use Run Hide, Fight (RHF) in your Crisis Plans? I have the HSEM Crisis Plan for schools fully created and customized to ROCORI – Not adopted yet though. Now we are moving to RHF, just looking to see what policy/ procedures others have or how you worded them…? If you do, and can share them, that would be great.Just hit reply to share information.Question submitted by: Brent Neisinger, ROCORI PUBLIC SCHOOLS
- Does anyone have suggestions for cleaning floors in a walk-in freezer without thawing? We only have one and no other place for the food and the floor needs to be scrubbed/mopped. Thank you. Just hit reply to share information.Question submitted by Dave Thieschafer, ISD #550 – Underwood
When a member sends out a question to membership, the answers will be posted to the MASMS website. - I am looking for feedback and/or strategic plans of what others have been doing to move their facilities to LED. Looking for direct experiences good or bad with specific retrofit companies or if you have used a different tactic(Design firm, In house, etc.) to switch your facilities to LED especially now with rapidly increasing utility costs. Question submitted by Cole Nelson, Northfield Schools
- I am curious about asset tracking processes, software and labels other members use for furniture in their facilities. Question submitted by Ramona Haines, Blake Schools
- We have some older thermoplastic coated outdoor benches and tables and the coating is peeling off. Quotes I have for replacement seats and tops are as much as a new table. Does anyone re-coat these? If not, can anyone tell me who they have dealt with to purchase either replacement pieces or new tables and benches? Question submitted by Dave Thieschafer, ISD #550 – Underwood
- We are looking for other members input on how they are efficiently (Labor and Cost) cleaning 2nd story windows. Question submitted by Megan Pehrson, Grand Rapids ISD
- Does anyone have a policy written up for vape detections for your districts, that you could share? Question submitted by Karl Flier, Pine River – Backus Schools 2174
- Does anyone have a policy written up for vape detections for your districts, that you could share? Question submitted by Karl Flier, Pine River – Backus Schools 2174
- Have any other districts began to recognize Juneteenth as a district holiday and plan to close for the day? Please let me know if you have already or are in the process of adding it. It already has been added to our hourly staff contracts (including custodial). Management groups are looking to have it added as well, thus the reason for my question. Question submitted by Jeff Arthurs, Osseo Area Schools
- Does anyone have recommendations on how to discard old science chemicals and specimens?Question submitted by Bryan Arbogast, Intermediate District 287
- Do you allow events, open gyms or practices in your facilities without having custodial staff in duty?Question submitted by Seth Putz, Lake of the Woods ISD
- What do you charge outside users for your grounds team to prep a field, not including the initial layout (including chalk, paint, & labor)? Baseball/Softball | Football | Soccer If you do it differently, how do you do it? Question submitted by Scott Stockdale, Pine Island Public Schools
- What are Schools using to decompact artificial turf?
We have a drag but looking to really decompact and clean.Question submitted byTony Compo, Esko Schools - Does anyone have a written policy or guideline document about allowing and care of animals in classrooms? Any info would be appreciated. Question submitted by Maureen Mullen, Prior Lake -Savage ISD
- Does your district use radios to communicate throughout the day/night? If so, what staff are given radios and who manages the radio supply/maintenance? Question submitted by Bob Sumner, Milaca Public Schools
- This summer we will be completing our Turf Field install. (Football, Soccer, Softball, etc..) The district is looking to purchase a utility vehicle for this field to pull around the field sweeper and field groomer. What are other districts using for this maintenance?
- We are having issues with our waste hauler–driver hasn’t picked up 4 different times only one time a reason was given. Costs have skyrocketed. Has anyone used Roadrunner as a broker to find a better hauler/price?Question submitted by Dan Carson, Yinghua Academy
- Does anyone have a template RFP or RFQ for trash and recycle disposal? Just hit reply to share information. Question submitted by Bruce Hanson, ISD
- We are looking at putting up a netted backstop on our varsity field. If you have done this in your district, can you provide me with vender used, and cost? Any other information you can provide would be greatly appreciated as well. Question submitted by Tyler Garrison, Fairmont Area Schools
- I am investigating the purchase of a portable classroom building. Who have you used to disassemble, transport and reassemble a portable building? I appreciate any recommendations. Just hit reply to share information. Question submitted by Marc Bachman, Saint Peter Public Schools
- I am wondering if anyone out there rents out school equipment such as concession supplies and chairs/tables for outside use off of school property? If so, what all does that entail for forms that need to be filled out?Question submitted by Nathan Sorgert, Rush City School District
- What does everyone do for bleacher inspections? Who do you hire or can you do it yourself? Question submitted by Jeremy Skwira, Pierz ISD 484
- Does anyone have solar for 1 or more of their buildings? If so what are the benefits and drawbacks of it? Question submitted by Ed Zeimet, Shakopee Schools
- I need to find out what works the best for taking off pencil graffiti from walls.Question submitted by Judd Whiting, 916 Northeast metro
- I am looking to see if there are any districts that have a documented list of what I would classify as mission essential custodial tasks, non-mission essential tasks, and tasks not done by custodians. Basically, I’m looking to provide a guidance document to the administrators and staff that provides rules so to speak. We are being pulled from our core functions to do things that are not critical in nature. I have my ideas, but I thought someone might already have some guidelines out there.Question submitted by Steve Moore, Moorhead Area Public Schools – ISD I52
- I’m looking to improve the way we handle waste/recycling in my cafeterias. Any help with processes, container type, signage/posters, etc. would be greatly appreciated. Also is there a vendor that assisted in this process? Question submitted by Brandon Hieb, Marshall School
- I’m looking to improve the way we handle waste/recycling in my cafeterias. Any help with processes, container type, signage/posters, etc. would be greatly appreciated. Also is there a vendor that assisted in this process? Question submitted by Brandon Hieb, Marshall School
- I’m looking to improve the way we handle waste/recycling in my cafeterias. Any help with processes, container type, signage/posters, etc. would be greatly appreciated. Also is there a vendor that assisted in this process? Question submitted by Brandon Hieb, Marshall School
- How many schools are doing “cue testing” for covid in their schools? How are you handling the waste from the tests?Question submitted by Seth Putz, Lake of the Woods ISD
- Parents want to donate/buy each classroom a portable HEPA filter machine. We just had a IAQ test done over the summer to establish a baseline and we had very good quality air with no issues (bacteria/virus/mold etc). We are using MERV 10 filters on our 15 RTU’s. Any suggestions on what your school is buying for HEPA filter units.Question submitted by: Dan Carson, Yinghua Academy
- I am looking for anyone that is willing to share interview questions they have used recently for Building Head Custodians.Question submitted by: Brad Berghuis, Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools, ISD #47
- I am looking for ideas and thoughts on portable classrooms?
Do you currently have any that we may look at in the northwest part of Minnesota?
What company did you work with? Pros and cons?Any information will be helpful. Just hit reply to share information.Question submitted by Freddie Martinez , Warren-Alvarado-Oslo Dist. 2176 - Is anyone is having additional HEPA air purifiers in the classrooms?
Question submitted by: Matt Plumhoff, St. Cloud Schools - I am wondering if members would be willing to share the following:If they have done construction of a completely new building recently, what percentage fees did the architect charge the district for that new building project? Question submitted Paul Bourgeois, Minnetonka Independent School District 276
- “What are districts doing with their surplus of PPE such as plexiglass barriers and face shields?”
\Question submitted by Dylan Carlson, Cloquet Public Schools - Looking for ideas to remove paint from the brick on the exterior of one of our buildings that someone painted graffiti on.
Question submitted by Dean Mitchell, Albany Area Schools - Has anyone replaced the flooring on an indoor retractable bleacher. If so, with what and who did the work?
Question submitted by Paul Clauson, Kenyon Wanamingo Schools - My question is what do other districts prefer – fencing slats or wind screens on their tennis courts and why.
Question submittefd by Julie Osterbauer, I.S.D. 832 Mahtomedi Schools - My question is what do other districts prefer – fencing slats or wind screens on their tennis courts and why. Question submittefd by Julie Osterbauer, I.S.D. 832 Mahtomedi Schools
- I’m looking to see if anyone would be willing to send me a copy of their district’s Emergency/Safety Response Procedures/Plan? We currently have a large master plan that addresses staffs’ response to everything from fires to medical emergencies to mental health emergencies and we have smaller, condensed flip charts hanging in each classroom. What we have is outdated and we are updating our plan to be more concise and district specific this summer! Anything you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Question submitted by Lindsay, ISD 199 – Inver Grove Heights
- The Underwood school is looking for some help in reconfiguring the traffic flow in our parking lot. Is there a company/consultant out there that helps with this that you would recommend? Question submitted by Dave Thieschafer, ISD #550 – Underwood
- GROUNDS | I’m in the process of replacing some of our grounds equipment. I’m hoping to purchase pieces that are multifunctional vs serve only one purpose. Looking for any recommendations, or pros/cons of any equipment you may have. Question submitted by: Jeremy Skwira, Pierz ISD 484
- I am doing some research for a talk I am giving. Would you please let me know if you have a meeting with your superintendent and how often? Answers are much appreciated!!! Simple and quick is great. Example: Yes, Weekly. Feel free to elaborate on how valuable or productive you feel it is, if you like! Question submitted by Scott Stockdale, Pine Island Public Schools
- Do any districts code maintenance salaries or LTFM budgeting/project work back to LTFM? If it is a portion, how do you determine the percentage?Question submitted by: Cameron Peterson, Hastings Public Schools
- How do you bid out snow removal? Is it capped or is it a per hour, per machine? Just hit reply to share information.
Question submitted by: Kelly Klein, Warroad Schools - Question to the group, what is a better flooring material, and why? V C T or L V T? Our new construction project is moving right along, however sadly they want to cover our terrazzo, for a newer look. Any information on this is appreciated.
Just hit reply to share information.Question submited by: Karyn Edelbach, Goodhue Schools - Does anyone have guidance on occupancy in press boxes? Is it considered like offices, 100 sq ft per person?
Question submitted by Scott Kaminski, Mankato Area Public Schools - We started using Vital Oxide to clean and disinfect classrooms during the day. However, we have had a few students say that their clothing is getting ruined – specifically black pants, joggers, spandex (please see the attached picture). I was wondering if anyone else that is using Vital Oxide has had any issues? Question submited by: Freddie Martinez, Warren-Alvarado-Oslo ISD 2176
- Would anyone be willing to share with me information on their Grounds Department (if you have one) staff, pay, and size of District? We would like to update our Job Duties and possibly justify more staff.
Question submitted by Scott Kaminski, Mankato Schools - I was wondering if anyone has a copy of a request for bids to replace a life safety fire alarm system, and they wouldn’t mind mind sharing it. Our district is looking for wording and some spec’s.
Question submitted by Tom Holt, International Falls High School - Wondering if any Schools have bought large tents or canopies for letting classes get under cover outside? Any MN dealerships?
Just hit reply to share information. Question submitted by Tony Compo, Esko Schools - Our industrial technology class is looking to build a large building (40×120) to store a couple of our buses and type 3 vehicles. My first question is, because this is a commercial building, does it have to be designed by an engineer or can our local lumber yard assist with the process? The second question is we have a local contractor that is willing to donate their labor for the cement work and only charge us for materials. Since the materials are likely over the $10,000 mark, will we need to request additional bids for the concrete work? Any insight would be appreciated. Question submitted by Dustin Wroolie, Nevis ISD #308
- Has anyone been able to find a 3-sided plexiglass guard for a teacher’s podium? Question submitted by: Julie Osterbauer, I.S.D. 832 Mahtomedi Schools
- Does anyone know where to dispose of wrestling mats, the proper way. I have two of them. Question submitted by Darwin Fleck, Foley Public School
- How do you remove snow from artificial turf? Questions submitted by Darin Cherne, Grand Rapids Schools
- What people using for non-rigid room dividers?
Thoughts on students helping to clean surfaces in between class changes and PPE for that? Questions submitted by Joe Wagner, ISD 207 - I’d like to find out if grounds crew are doing anything or have ideas for football fields to keep from deep freezing for the possible March start time for a spring football season. Please just hit reply to share information. Question submitted by Striker Hasson, Badger Public Schools
- What are you doing with cloth furniture?How are you disinfecting it?
Are you keeping it the furniture? Question submitted by Joleen Mohlin, District 112 - I am looking for a RFP for snow removal based on a monthly fee. If you have one you could share, that would be great. Just hit reply to share information you have. Question submitted by Travis Evenson, Cambridge-Isanti ISD #911
- Has anyone purchased face shields for Covid? If so, from who. Any info would be greatly appreciated in reference to quality, fit wise, fogging and durability. Question submitted by Karl Flier, Pine River Backus Schools
- I am looking to see what methods other schools will be using to take student temperatures as they enter the bus or the building. Are you using the infrared handheld or setup that detects their temperature as they walk by? Any guidance or insight would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Question submitted by Dustin Wroolie, Nevis ISD #308
- I am wondering what signage districts are using on playgrounds without summer occupancy. This mainly applies to the general public that attempt/do use district playgrounds and elementary equipment. How do you have signage worded to explain equipment is not disinfected and use is at their own risk until students return.
Question submitted by Scott Peterson, ISD 622 - Just wondering what your thoughts are on Clorox 360 machines?
Question submitted by Kelly Klein, Warroad Schools - I’m looking into buying a electrostatic sprayers for my school. What types have you had success with? The two brands I got quotes on is the Clorox 360 plug in. It looks more heavy duty but less versatile . Then there is the Victory brand. That has the handheld and backpack type with a battery pack. I’m possibly looking into buying a combination to fit the needs of the school. From cleaning classrooms, locker rooms, bleachers to cafeterias and all of above. I’m assuming with the Clorox brand you are limited with their product. Also assuming the victory brand can take any brand disinfectant cleaner. What type do you recommend? How often to you use them? Any advice on what is your process is for utilizing these tools. Regardless this type of cleaning is a step beyond my past normal. These machines are definitely not cheap and I want to make sure I make the right choice. Thanks in advance for any advice you can provide. Stay Safe!! BrandonJust hit reply to share your knowledge and information. Question submitted by: Brandon Hieb, Facilities Director – Marshall Schools
- I am looking for examples of visual emergency notification systems in secondary schools. We are going to be installing new visual notification stobes and display portals in our High School this summer (to signal for lockdowns/weather emergencies/etc) and I’m looking to see what type of alarms/systems other schools have in place and what is working or not working. Question submitted by Lindsay Elwell, Inver Grove Heights Schools
- How long do you hold on to the unclaimed lost and found items at the end of the school year? Please just hit reply to share information.
Question submitted by Kevin Packer, Robbinsdale Schools - I am looking for what kind of flooring you have in your cafeteria/multi purpose gym? We are replacing the one we have now and are looking for recommendations. Just hit reply to share information.
Question submitted by Shaun Nelson, Bertha Hewitt High School - I’d like to know what other districts are using to apply floor finish. Please just hit reply to share information. Question submitted by Lori McCarthy, Osseo
- Who has a school district phone provided to them? What is your districts policy for using it for personal use like Phone calls, apps, text messages, and web search?Also if you get a stipend to use your personal phone, do you have a policy with certain restrictions regarding personal items on your phone because of the stipend? Question submitted by Jim Leuer, Rockford Area Schools
- What are districts doing or protocol if their district closes what role do their custodial staff do as far as cleaning?Also if the custodial staff are responsible for cleaning the school what if one of the custodial staff get infected from the virus, do they get paid or use their own time off? Question submitted by Jim Leuer, Rockford Area Schools
- Does anyone have any experience with factory maintenance/parts/inspection agreements? I am wondering what other districts have done after installing large ticket items such as boilers and chillers. Just hit reply to share information. Question submitted by: Cameron Peterson, Hastings Public Schools
- What school districts have recently replaced their dust collection system and with what type of system? Also looking for budgetary numbers, so curious how much it cost to replace your system. Please just hit reply to share information. Questions submitted by Scott Albright, Winona Schools
- We had a very interesting question asked. A High School Senior wants to know what College and/or Vocational education to get if they want to their career to be a Building & Grounds Director Position. Question submitted by Dave Hagen, Triton Schools
- What are other districts doing in the winter months when snow and ice under playground equipment do not provide the proper fall protection needed per certified playground safety inspector guidelines?
Question submitted by Bill Schwartz, Forest Lake School District - I’m curious if any districts have a plan set in place for a contagious disease and how they will handle it if it infected their student/staff population. Would the school shut down for a week…or more? Would they hire an outside agency to disinfect the school? Etc. In particular, the coronavirus. Thank you…
Please just hit reply to share information. Question submitted by: Dan Carlson, Yinghua Academy - I am looking for emergency operations plans for after hour events such as large dance recitals at the schools while few, if any district staff are present. This would be a plan that could be shared with the event organizer along with the other documents provided. If there were some type of emergency or crisis, what do they do? Who do they contact? Where do they evacuate to?I hate to recreate the wheel. Anyone have a plan they are willing to share that I could use as a template for our district? Any ideas or suggestions are welcome as well. Are your custodial staff who work weekends and evenings trained in crisis response?Question submitted by: Kim Flanaghan, Inver Grove Heights
- Looking on input on team cleaning vs. zone cleaning. Which do you prefer? Pluses, minuses? Question submitted by Keith Barlage, Princeton ISD 477
- Curious if any other districts have installed single pedestal blocks in existing pools and how they did it. Just hit reply with information. Question submitted by Brent Neisinger, ROCORI Schools
- Do any districts have a policy or procedure for how to handle furniture brought into the buildings from staff? Question submitted by Joleen Mohlin, Eastern Carver County Schools.
- How do you handle personal refrigerators and personal appliances in the classrooms?” There are several rooms here with them in there. I am looking for ideas on how to address this issue. Just hit reply to answer. Thank you in advance. Submitted by: Seth Putz, Lake of the Woods School
- I am requesting information from anyone that has used the lockdown magnets that go over the strike plates, there are a lot of them out there I’m sure some are better than others. Can anyone tell me which ones have worked best for them? Question submitted by: Julie Osterbauer, Mahtomedi Schools
- I did some training with food service and the question came up as to whether we will pay for lumbar support braces. Would like to know what other districts are doing. Staff stating their backs are killing them when serving the pre-k kids. Just hit reply to answer. Thank you. Question submitted by Kim Flanaghan, ISD #199
- Has anyone had good luck with painting gym walls? Our gym was painted with acrylic gloss enamel and we would like to paint it but are worried about the paint sticking. Sanding all the walls is not an option. Please respond with any info you have by hitting reply. Question submitted by Tony Compo, Esko Public Schools
- Does anyone hire an outside contractor to do their boiler cleaning for low pressure steam boilers? If so, do you have a name of the contractor. Question submitted by Gigi Pehrson, Grand Rapids
- The Royalton School Dist. has just erected a 1250 sq ft green house, please see the picture attached. I’d like to know what other Districts have for heating costs in the same type of structure. Also do any districts use their green houses during the coldest months? Submitted by Tony Duevel, Royalton Schools
- The clocks in our school are about 20 years old and are integrated into our bells/intercom system. It is a Telcor system. The problem we are having is that the clocks are very dim and some are even unreadable. The clock and speaker are housed together in one unit. Has anyone done an upgrade in a clock system or worked with a contractor on a similar project? Please just hit reply if you have any information.Thank you. Dave Thieschafer, ISD #550 – Underwood
- I am looking for interview questions you may have for a district wide maintenance technician position. Question submitted by Dan Miller, Farmington Schools
- I am looking for interview questions you may have for a district wide maintenance technician position. Question submitted by Dan Miller, Farmington Schools
- I am going to hire a Facility Coordinator in the near future and I would like to know who has a position like this in their organization. If you do, and if you have a job description and wage schedule that you can share that would be great! Question submitted by: Thomas Bravo, St. Louis Park Schools
- If anyone has carpet squares in their rooms, I’d like to hear about what you like and don’t like about them. Please just hit reply to share your information. Question submitted by Tod Pelarski, Pillager ISD 116
- I was wondering if any districts own vaporizers and propane tanks for boilers? We have a propane supplier supply the tanks. Maybe propane would be cheaper if we owned the equipment. Any info would be appreciated. Just hit reply to share. Question submitted by Pete Amundson, West Central Area Schools
- At Austin Public Schools we have a new B&G department and are looking to restructure/start fresh on our rental procedures for our turf fields and dome. Wondering if anyone could help with examples or templates that they use? Question submitted by Ben Schuller, Austin Schools
- I am looking for a description of your district’s crisis management and physical security organization. I am not looking for your plan or program details. I just want to know who runs these programs, by position name, and the chain of command to the superintendent. For example here is what this looks like at Hopkins Public Schools.
Crisis Management Chain Superintendent < Business Services Manager < Buildings and Grounds Supervisor < Buildings and Grounds Assistant Supervisor < Health and Safety Coordinator / Crisis Management Leader Physical Security Chain Superintendent < Business Services Manager < Buildings and Grounds Supervisor - Please just reply to this message to share your info. Submitted by Jeff Goldy, Hopkins Public Schools
- am looking to have one of our four pools closed permanently due to limited use. Please contact me if you have had experience putting together average daily or monthly operating costs for your pool. Any help on this topic would be greatly appreciated. Just hit reply to this message. Question submitted by Jeff Arthurs, Osseo Schools
- Wondering if anyone has a good contractor for turnkey installation of a wood shop dust collection system.
Question submitted by Tony Compo. Esko Public Schools - What type of machine do you use to drag your baseball and softball fields with? Question submitted by Anthony Pierce, McGregor Schools
- We are wondering if anyone has a repair method that is effective for a torn or cracked playground plastic slide. Please just rely to share information. Question submitted by Brent Neisinger, ROCORI
- Does anyone have an attendance policy for custodial staff? If you do, please just hit reply to share it.
Submitted by Julie Osterbauer, I.S.D. 832 Mahtomedi Schools - Does anyone have a RFP for a lighting retrofit to LED lighting, and are willing to share it? If you do, please just hit reply to this email and attach it to the email. Submitted by Bill Burt, Construction Services Coordinator, Rochester Schools
- I’m wondering if you use football fields for soccer. If applicable, what are your pro’s and con’s? I would like to use ours for games only, but get pushback at every turn. Just hit reply to share any information. Question submitted by Joe Wagner, ISD 2071
- Does anyone have a outside contractor that comes in annually and does inspections on their weight room equipment? Question submitted by Gigi Pehrson, Grand Rapids Schools
- Does any School districts have Vaping detection installed in their restrooms, if so what brand and does it work. Question submitted by Jim Leuer, Rockford Schools
- Per Minnesota Statute 326B.974 School Engineer, what are other districts doing to provide annual boiler training for employees?
“Subd. 2.School district training. A school district shall allow to occur annually at least eight hours of training related to boiler operation to a licensee described in subdivision 1” Question submitted by Dylan Carlson, Duluth Public Schools - I have a couple questions on artificial turf and snow removal. What type of equipment do you use for removal? Do you have a policy on this? How often do you remove snow from the turf? This question submitted by Julie Osterbauer, Mahtomedi Schools
- Wondering if anyone has had a rubber type gym floor redone? Our rubber floor in our practice gym is over 20 years old and we would like to get a price on redoing it. Has anyone had a contractor do this? Just hit reply to share any info! Submitted by: Tony Compo, Esko Public Schools
- We will be looking to replace the artificial turf in our high school stadium in the next couple of years. I am wondering if any districts have an engineering firm they used for a similar process they could strongly recommend. Please just hit reply with any information you may have. Submitted by Dan Miller, Farmington Area Public Schools
- Is anyone taking any precautionary measures with their roofs and the weight of snow? Sounds like a wet heavy snow this weekend and again next week. Any ideas would be great. Thanks. Submitted by Julie Osterbauer, I.S.D. 832 Mahtomedi Schools
- Does your district or any other district you know have outdoor graduation on a synthetic turf field? If you do, how do you address the chairs on the turf surface? Any insight is greatly appreciated! Question submitted by Cameron Peterson, Hastings Schools
- I am wondering what other districts have in place to regulate Essential oils, diffusers, scents that are brought into their district. Does anyone have a board policy on this? Is this something that is covered in employee hand book? SDS sheets? Does anyone cover this in their Indoor air quality program? I am open to any and all information that you are willing to share. Submitted by Jason Hruby, Thief River Falls Schools
- I am wondering what other districts have in place to regulate Essential oils, diffusers, scents that are brought into their district. Does anyone have a board policy on this? Is this something that is covered in employee hand book? SDS sheets? Does anyone cover this in their Indoor air quality program? I am open to any and all information that you are willing to share. Submitted by Jason Hruby, Thief River Falls Schools
- Does anyone have detection in your restrooms or any places in your buildings to detect vaping or plans on installing detection? Or any ideas on how your district handles vaping? Question submitted by Karl Flier, Pine River Backus Schools
- Does your district rent working uniforms for their custodian’s or do they give each employee allowance to buy their uniforms. If they give an allowance then, how much uniform allowance do they get”. Currently SLP give custodian’s a $240.00 uniform allowance and $120.00 boot allowance. I want to rent these moving forward, but I need to know what other district’s are doing. Any information will be appreciated. Question submitted by Tom Bravo, St. Louis Park School District 283
- Do any Districts have a current Stage Director/Auditorium Technician that manages their auditorium programs, maintenance, lighting, sound, etc? If you do, I’m looking for a job description or any other info! Thank you very much. Submitted by: Tyler Glad ISD #701
- What are your district’s safety practices for managing the use of gas in science labs? Colin Green, Waseca Public Schools
- We have an electric boiler so we do not use much fuel oil, but we do use some. I have a 12,000 gallon tank and I currently have 2380 gallons. We started the heating season with 4000 gallons. My system is telling me to order fuel, but I would like to wait until summer. I know it’s not good to run it too low, but how low can I run it down and still be safe? Being over with what is typically the coldest weather, I don’t anticipate using more than 1000 gallons more at the most. Any information on this would be helpful. Thank you. Dave Thieschafer, ISD #550
- When replacing asphalt, parking lot repairs and Concrete repairs is this funded through LTFM or is there another funding source available that district use beside LTFM or Capital? Submitted by Jim Leuer, Rockford Schools
- Has anyone ever used any de-icing product/s on playground equipment other than the sun? Question submitted by Doug Miner, Elk River Schools
- Has anyone ever used any de-icing product/s on playground equipment other than the sun? Question submitted by Doug Miner, Elk River Schools
- Has anyone ever used any de-icing product/s on playground equipment other than the sun? Question submitted by Doug Miner, Elk River Schools
- Wondering if anyone has an RFP for School Pest Management Services that they would be willing to share? Just hit reply if you do. Submitted by: Jeanne Korf, Rush City Schools
- Wondering if anyone has an RFP for School Pest Management Services that they would be willing to share? Just hit reply if you do. Submitted by: Jeanne Korf, Rush City Schools
- If anyone has sample RFP’s for buildings they have sold, and are willing to share them, please forward me a copy! To respond just hit reply. Question submitted by Kevin Johnson, Red Wing Schools
- I am looking for information on what experience you have had using urethane finish on VCT or ceramic tile. Pros and cons. Submitted by Tim Anderson, Goodridge Schools
- I am wondering how many schools out there are heating with geothermal heat? Pros and Cons? Who installs them around Minnesota? Submitted by Jarod Magnusson, Badger Schools
- I was wondering if anyone could help me with, or share information for, putting together a bid package for the resurfacing of our gym floor. Please just hit reply to share information. Question submitted by Tom Holt, International Falls High School
- Do you have cellular towers on your facility or grounds and what are you charging the cellular company’s for this rental space. We are currently working with AT&T and want to know what other’s are doing in their negotiations. Please just hit reply to share information. Question submitted by Tom Bravo, St. Louis Park School District 283
- What type of cleaning do other schools do, and do they do anything to their tile floors during Christmas break? I am also wondering what kind of floor finish other schools are using on their tile floors? Just hit reply to share any information you may have. Question submitted by: Russ Bode, Goodridge Public School
- Has anyone been asked by a cell phone provider to put up a cell phone tower on their building or light pole? If so, any benefits or negatives? Just hit reply to share your information. Question submitted by Gigi Pehrson, Grand Rapids Schools
- Just wondering what districts do/charge when a booster club uses the facility on a weekend? Here it creates a lot of paper product use, garbage and custodian overtime. I wondering if people rent the facility? if so what rate? Charge to organization? Keep track of expenses and bill out these items? Any info is appreciated. Question submitted by Wade Nibbe, WCA Schools
- Wondering if any Schools in the Northeastern part of the state have a recycling program that works and they would share some tips with our Bio-Green team club. Question submitted by Tony Compo, Esko Schools
- Is anyone using an Electrostatic sanitizing sprayer in their buildings for disinfecting? If so any pro’s and Con’s on it? Question submitted by Tyler Garrison, Fairmont Area Schools
- What / who are you using for wood floor protection in your gyms when you have it used for other events like Prom, concerts, events with street shoes? Question submitted by Pat Lang, New Ulm Schools
- Want type of milk coolers are other schools using and do they own them or does the milk supplier furnish them to the school? Question submitted by Doug Slininger, Ada Borup School
- Are any school districts using any type of air fresheners in their hallways or commons areas? What is your school policy on scented room fresheners? Question submitted by John Lambert, LeCresent-Hokah ISD 300
- Monthly temperature and water flushing of “Eye Wash Stations”, who does them at your school district”. Is it done by the teachers or the custodians or health & safety officer? Please just hit reply to answer. Question submitted by Tom Bravo, St. Louis Park School District 283
- Does anyone do background checks on outside vendors that do work in their schools? If so, what are the guidelines? Just hit reply to answer. Thank you! Question submitted by Gigi, Grand Rapids Schools
- What are your school district policy are on allowing dogs on school grounds / buildings? (Question submitted by Dave Kirsch, Eastern Carver County Schools)
- We are reviewing our Crisis Manual and we are looking for other procedures on ” Death of a student or staff”. If anyone is willing to share that section of their manual it would be greatly appreciated. Submitted by Jason Hruby Thief River Falls Schools, ISD #564
- Our auxiliary gym has a turf surface in it which is adhered to the floor. Last year we had a lot of problems keeping our Light Weight Wrestling Mat from sliding when the team warmed up and all of them were practicing at the same time. How anyone else encountered this problem? How did you resolve it? Question submitted by Marc Bachman, St. Peter Public Schools
- We are looking for information on where other districts are at with their custodial staffing levels. 1. What are your SQ FT/cleaner ratios? 2. What ratio do you think they should be at? 3. Do you count your first shift as a full 8 hours toward the SQ FT/cleaner ratio, even if they are not cleaning the whole time? a. If no, what percentage of their time do you include? Question submitted by Maureen Mullen, Prior-Lake Savage Schools.
- I am wondering what other districts have for distances for their Varsity Out-Field fence. Our coaches are wanting ours moved in and am curious at what others have in place at their ball fields? I would like your measurements at foul line to centerfields if you have them. Submitted by Tyler Garrison, Fairmont Area Schools
- We are looking into somehow color coding our buildings hallways to use as a guide for building issues. If you have done something similar, please let me know what you did and how it worked. Submitted by Ralph Lambert, Eden Valley Watkins ISD #463.
- A MASMS Member is looking for questions they ask at the custodial interviews. Please reply to this email with any information. (Question submitted by Karl Flier, Pine River Backus Schools)
- A MASMS Member is looking for questions they ask at the custodial interviews. Please reply to this email with any information. (Question submitted by Karl Flier, Pine River Backus Schools)
- Does anyone know of a company that does service work on old wood bleachers – in particular the hydraulic lift systems? Jim Florey, Loyola Catholic School
- Has anyone had to purchase a Type III van for your school? If so, how do you go about doing that? I called a local Ford Dealership and they said they cannot sell to a school as it is against Federal Law? I called our bus company and they are looking into it as well. Any tips or places to buy, let me know. Thank you! Question placed by Scott Kaminski, Janesville, Waldorf, Pemberton Schools.
- Does anyone have a solution for keeping Geese off of your athletic fields? Question asked by Kain Smith, Faribault Public Schools
- Do you use a Temp Cleaning Service for cleaning if you do not have regular subs available to fill a shift? If you do who do you use and how does it work for you? Asked by: Dean Mitchell, Albany
- Does anyone know of any reason that you cannot have live plants, (non- poisonous of course) in a classroom? Asked by: Dave Thieschafer, Underwood Schools
- We’re looking for solutions for odor control in locker rooms, particularly for football. Does anyone have experience with or suggestions for methods, products, or processes that have worked – or not worked? Asked by: Maureen Mullen, Prior Lake-Savage Schools
- We looking for a place to buy artificial turf tools. A wide magnet, a wide lawn sweeper to pick up leaves. Does anyone have suggestions? Asked by: Matt LaBeau, Delano Schools
- We’re looking for feedback on how other districts handle draining their swimming pools.o Do you drain into your city/town sanitary sewer system or the storm water system? o If you drain into the storm water system, how do you dechlorinate the pool water beforehand? Asked by: Maureen Mullen, Prior Lake-Savage Schools
- We are looking to hire an in-house painter, does anybody currently have one? If so Benefits? Draw Backs? Any info will be appreciated. Please just hit reply. Mick Greiner, Eastern Carver County Schools
- Does anyone have a policy on what can be brought into classrooms as far as furniture? We are having issues with teachers bringing in too much, that it makes it difficult to clean and evacuate in case of an emergency. Any info is appreciated! Scott Kaminski, Janesville Waoldorf Pembeth Schools
- Have any of you used/installed a fence weed barrier for under the fence that you would or would not recommend? Jason Bichler, Fridley School District 14
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- Does anyone have any good experiences with an all in one security company? (To include: Access control, Access management, Card/Fob access systems , Doors propped open notification, Integration with current systems )
- Painting Rooms:
- Do other schools let teachers and staff paint rooms?
- Or does the maintenance staff only paint rooms?
- Do other schools have a set paint color or colors?
- Or do they let anyone pick out any paint and paint colors?
- Is there anyone in northern MN that does brick work/ tuck pointing?
Jarod Magnusson, Badger Community School - Can anyone give me a recommendation on who to use for bleacher inspections? Someone that is reputable and fair priced? Thank you. Dave Thieschafer, Underwood
- Procedure or information on best tips and practices for shutting a building down for a long term. (3-5 years).
Thank you. Ed Zeimet, Shakopee Schools - A MASMS Member has a question on how other schools handle overtime for their hourly employees. I am looking for information on how it is handled when an employee gets paid for more than 40 hours in a work week but they work less than 40 hours…for example: An employee has a personal day on Monday and works 8 hours a day the rest of the week and has to work on Saturday making a total of 48 hours but only 40 hours worked. I would like to know how other districts handle this?
- Advice for who you may use to repair and maintain the service outlets and pavement over underground storage tanks.
- Terrazzo maintenance product suggestions.
- Can anyone tell me who they use for a reasonable price on playground wood chips in the Fergus Falls area?
- Apple Computer recycling program. They would arrange pickup for computers or any electronics, can’t find it any more. Please reply with any info you have to share. Trevor Steeves, Pelican Rapids Public Schools
- Contractors to do an yearly maintenance job on any water gardens. Please reply, any help would be useful. Thanks, Brian Thoennes. Columbia Heights Public Schools
- I am interested in knowing if any MASMS members have experience in leasing commercial grade riding mowers. Just click reply to this message to share information. Thank you,
Dan Miller, Director of Operations, Farmington Area Public Schools - Does anyone know of a reputable EIFS contractor near the Fergus Falls/Alexandria area. If so, please let me know. (Just hit reply to this message with any info to share). Thanks. Dave Thieschafer, Underwood Schools
- I am looking for some good questions to ask in a interview for interviewing potential carpenters? Also, do you know of a good skills test to also give potential candidates? Any info will be helpful. Just hit reply to this message. Thank you. Gigi Pehrson, Grand Rapids Schools
- What to use to paint the new semi circle under the baskets on their basketball courts which is a new rule for high school basketball this year.
- Does anyone have a system to alert a whole building that does not have a PA system? We have a Community Ed Building that has three floors and we are looking for a communication system for the building to alert everyone if we have to go into lock down.
- Has anyone recently replaced univents in their classrooms? Was there a particular engineer or firm that you would recommend for this type of project? We are just in the planning stages now, and any info would be great.
- Does anyone has a contact to purchase sound blocks as seen in the attachment? Prefer non tectum. 12”x12”.
- What contracts or purchasing agreements have people had success with in purchasing a new truck. I am also looking for advise on where to purchase a new plow truck. We will be putting a dump box on it to handle the salt spreader. A diesel dually is preferred by staff. (Q posted 5/31/18, by Todd Lieser, Roseville Schools)
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