When did you begin your Green Cleaning program and why?

We actually began our program in the mid 90's when we began renovating older buildings. I wanted to use more sustainable materials and equipment and not go with the norm because it was the lowest bid. We have installed geothermal units with UV lighting in them, along with more fresh make up air to help improve the interior air quality.

Along with this, I reduced the number of cleaning products that were being used from approx. 16 to just 6. Three years ago, I switched completely to Spartan products after testing many different brands and types of cleaning and floor products. Spartan seems to be the ahead of the rest and has already invested in "Green" and Bio-renewable products.

I also switched from paper cleaning cloths to micro-fiber and began using micro-fiber applicators to apply floor finish. I use Windsor sensor vacuums because they already have the HEPA filters and disposal paper bags. We used high-speed burnishers with dust collectors and battery powered floor scrubbers and wet vacs.

I maintain a large inventory of large 6' x 10' entrance floor mats to reduce the amount of dirt entering each building. I currently contract out approx. 700,000 square feet of buildings to four different janitorial services and maintain approx. 300,000 square feet of buildings with district staff. I am not mandating that the contractors use all Green Seal products at this time, but I do require that all products used be earth friendly and that any product used must have my approval before being brought into our buildings. Many of the contractors have chosen to use the same products as we are currently using.

What are some unexpected obstacles you have met, and how did you respond to them?

Cost was probably the biggest obstacle a few years ago. Green products were new and cost more. Due to the increased competition, the costs have been reduced and have become more affordable to use. The second problem was getting the staff used to the products not having a strong odor or defining color. Most of the products used are color and scent neutral.

Is the economic crunch hurting any of your efforts?

(This) has not affected us at this time. The buildings must be kept clean and healthy.

What are some of your success stories?

My decision to move in this direction was not made to receive recognition or to follow the crowd. I began this program to provide the healthiest learning environment for our students. Using the green products allows us to perform cleaning duties when staff and students are present. This has improved our efficiency and the appearance of our buildings. We were already pro-active in our cleaning before these products were introduced. Our district was awarded the American School and University Green Cleaning award for 2009 for our efforts.

Do you have any advice you would like to share with those considering starting a Green Cleaning Program?

Start slow by evaluating what you have in place and make the changes that will have the greatest effect on your cleaning program first. The money that you spend on chemicals is the smallest investment made when you break down the total cost of cleaning. Purchase the right equipment for your staff to improve efficiency and the quality of the work being performed.

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