Thirteen out of fourteen students who missed the hike on Saturday came prepared to have their packs checked today. Five brought them into school and eight came this evening. Maggie and Tim arrived at 6 to help with the inspections.
We thought it would be peaceful for the rest of the evening. Then I got a message from a grandparent questioning the use of the bleach bottles for storing drinking water. Immediately, we both started researching the topic and found mixed results. The CDC says it's acceptable while other public health agencies recommend sanitizing water with bleach. The additives are the issue and we ban any bleach that has perfumes. Food safe containers would be better, if we can confirm that they are clean.
We've been using bleach containers for 25 years with no ill effects. If anyone would be ill, it would be me, since I've done these trips 27 times. I think for the future, we'll need to offer a few alternatives. And I certainly understand the concerns. It is puzzling to me why the note would be sent at 9:00 the night before we depart when we can do very little to address the problem. Especially since I was with the family at 7:00.
Maybe in the morning, we will run out and buy 110 new water containers. Along with picking up the perishable foods at Tops and running off the new rosters. And maybe packing.
So tomorrow, we'll present the issue to the staff and see what they think. Then next week, we'll send a letter to parents offering information and options. Why is there always something at the last minute to spoil our sleep?
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