One way custodial personnel can reduce the spread of infection is by educating building occupants about the importance of handwashing. This is especially true in schools where students have an added incentive to minimize germs - they can help win a cash reward for the school.

The Healthy Schools, Healthy People, It's a SNAP National Award — a joint initiative of the American Cleaning Institute (ACI) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — is a hands-on initiative that's designed to help keep students in school and learning by improving overall health through promoting clean hands.
 
Each year, one school is chosen as the Healthy Schools, Healthy People, It's a SNAP National Award Recipient. This school receives an all-expense paid trip for three to Washington, D.C. to meet with leaders from CDC, ACI, industry and Capitol Hill, a cash award and handwashing supplies. Up to two runner-up schools receive a cash award of $250 each. All participating classrooms receive a certificate of recognition.

The program is now open to all public/private K-12 schools in states, territories and tribes within the US and applying is easy:
1. Fill in your school information on our one page Application Form.
2. Attach a 1-page Summary Report of your project including how you implemented the key handwashing messages.
3. Attach or link to online pictures, blogs, articles, posters, or videos (less than five minutes in length).

Electronic submissions are strongly encouraged. Submit your application to SNAP@cleaninginstitute.org by December 1 to be eligible for the national award.