What's involved in a COVID precautionary 'deep clean' inside an elementary school?

Many parents are eager to see their children back in classrooms; however, some parents still have concerns.

On Wednesday, WRAL took a closer look at the precautions schools are taking – including watching a demonstration of a 'deep cleaning' inside an elementary school.

A deep clean involves thoroughly cleaning every little nook and cranny someone's hands might touch. It must cover the entire school – and school buildings are often very large.

Pamela Howell and her custodial team at Jones Elementary in Wilson provided the demonstration – going room to room, spraying and wiping down everything.

“Whenever and wherever we are needed, we are there," said Pamela Howell, a custodian at the school.

“What we want to have is our normal school environment again," said Elizabeth Jenkins, the principal.

Elementary school students have been on Plan A since October, allowing full in-person instruction. Making sure they are stocked with disinfectant, gloves and masks requires constant work.

“The supply chains are always something we have to watch," said Mark Letchworth, maintenance director.

There are health screenings and masks. Kids eat lunch in classrooms to reduce movement. When there are COVID cases, school officials work to isolate them – closing classrooms if that is what is required.

"We have had some difficulties, but what I love is there is a lot of support for us," said Jenkins.

It is vitally important for the school district to have their safety system running smoothly. This Monday, all students, K through 12 return to Plan A, although an online option is still available.

At the moment, there are 16 active COVID cases in Wilson County Schools. Ten are students, 6 are staff, and none of those are at Jones Elementary.​