By By Leada Gore, Hartselle Enquirer
Barkley Bridge Elementary is in the process of treating its building for spiders but not because of a sudden outbreak of brown recluse as some have wondered.
The Enquirer received two calls earlier this week questioning the school’s handling of students while classrooms were being treated for what they termed “an infestation” of brown recluse spiders.
The school is currently in the process of spraying for spiders, wasps, ants and other insects as part of its yearly routine, Principal Susan Hayes said. Because some spiders have been seen in the school’s second grade wing, she said the school moved students out of classrooms late Friday to allow time for computers and other items to be covered before a weekend fogging treatment. The students were not moved back into the classrooms until later Monday, allowing custodians to wipe down the surfaces in the treated rooms.
Hayes said school was built on pasture land and they do have to treat for a variety of pests, including wasps, ants and mice.
Superintendent Dr. Mike Reed said the building has been treated for spiders for about two years but there’s no infestation.
The school is planning to do some more spraying this weekend, taking advantage of the fact students are out of school on Friday. Hayes said teachers have also been asked to put any stacks of paper that could attract insects into plastic bins.