PAOLI, Ill. (WCIA) — Clara Peterson Elementary School in Paxton breathed a collective sigh of relief after a thorough inspection and preventive measures confirmed the absence of bed bugs on the premises. The inspection was conducted on Thursday amid swirling rumors that the pesky critters had made an appearance in the teachers’ lounge.

Concerns among parents had been mounting throughout the week due to these rumors, compelling the school district to take swift action. In response, Interim Superintendent Jon Kilgore reached out to Terminix, a professional pest-control service, to both inspect and treat the facility as a precautionary measure. Kilgore later communicated the findings in a letter sent out Thursday night.

“I am pleased to report that after an inspection and proactive treatment of the building by certified professional pest-control, no bed bugs were found in the school,” Kilgore reassured. He emphasized the thoroughness of the inspection, which covered the entire building to eliminate any possibility of insects being transferred via boxes, clothing, or even people. Notably, no individual was identified as a carrier of bed bugs.

In handling the situation, the district adhered diligently to the Illinois Department of Public Health’s guidelines for schools, ensuring that all recommended procedures were followed. Kilgore explained that while official notifications are typically issued only after a confirmed identification by professionals, the prevalence of the rumors warranted a precautionary communication to the school community.

He went on to say that while letters only go out after a confirmed identification by a pest-control professional, he and other district officials believed a cautionary letter was merited because of the rumors.

“Again, a comprehensive inspection and treatment was applied this evening as a precautionary measure,” Kilgore added. “Our apologies if this notification created concerns, but we wanted to keep you informed. I hope the message provides some relief in attending school.”

In a separate letter, obtained by WCIA’s partners at the Ford County Chronicle, Principal Barry Wright reiterated that Terminix personnel were at the school upon being contacted and that the school district will follow all recommended protocols and any nexessary followup inspections and treatments.

“Since this activity was isolated to a staff-only area, the risk to students is considered extremely low. We are committed to maintaining a clean and healthy environment,” Wright said. “The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority. We encourage you to speak with your child about the importance of not sharing belongings (such as backpacks or coats) and keeping their personal items in their designated areas.”

“Although the risk is minimal, it is always a good time for a general awareness check. Bedbugs are known to be hitchhikers and can be brought into any environment,” Wright added. “Please monitor your child’s belongings and bedding at home for any signs of bedbugs (small, reddish-brown insects, small bloodstains, or tiny dark spots/fecal matter). If you have any concerns or believe you may have found evidence of bedbugs at home, we recommend contacting a pest control professional immediately.”

The school district will keep parents informed of any further developments.