One of the many Indoor Air Quality Sensors present around Sherwood.

by Cliff Vacin ‘25

Around Sherwood, there has been an increase in the monitors that assess air quality and specific air pollutants as well as measure environmental factors such as temperature or humidity. The Indoor Air Quality Sensors were placed in all MCPS schools over the summer in classrooms, media centers, all-purpose rooms, and in some hallways.

According to an MCPS FAQ page, the sensors are created by Attune, a company that is an industry leader in wireless monitoring. Sensors are placed in strategic locations of enclosed spaces that record temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide (CO2), and can detect the presence of airborne pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ozone (O3), and carbon monoxide (CO). The data is then transmitted wirelessly and collected for review to see if there is a need for corrective action or to coordinate repairs. The FAQ on the MCPS website states the ideal conditions for comfort and health as between 68°F and 76°F, with the humidity being between 30 percent and 70 percent. Montgomery County is not the only county holding Attune sensors in their buildings, as 6 different school districts in 5 different states and the District of Columbia have placed them in every school.

One of the challenges that Sherwood faces with air quality is that its current HVAC units are older and more frequently require county maintenance to make sure the temperature controls are functioning properly. Linda Berkheimer, the school’s business manager, explained that the large portable ventilation units in the main office at the beginning of the year were supporting the school’s HVAC system while it was getting maintenance repairs.”

Better ventilation and air quality are considered by experts as critical to lessen the transmission of Covid-19 and other airborne illnesses. “I do believe improving ventilation improves air quality as research has proved. The more dispersed contaminants are in the air the lower the transmission of pollutants and viruses,” explained School Nurse Irene Gumucio. In the Spring of 2021 when students had the option to return to school or remain virtual, classrooms in MCPS received Room Air Purifiers (RAP). These bulky plug-in machines remain in Sherwood’s classrooms but are rarely turned on by teachers or other staff.

Gumucio emphasizes the importance of precautions and practices that students themselves can do. “I encourage students and staff to get flu and covid vaccines as needed,” she said. “Be vigilant about getting plenty of sleep, eat healthy, and practice self-care. Practice good hand washing throughout the day. If you have a fever, stay home until fever-free for 24 hours and follow up with your doctor if symptoms persist … Viruses are here to stay so having ‘tools’ to manage our coexistence will promote better outcomes in the future.”