SF Miraloma Elementary School Gets Conditional Pass After Pest Issues

Miraloma Elementary School in the Forest Hill/West Portal neighborhood received a conditional pass during its routine health inspection on November 18, 2025, after inspectors discovered pest control issues that require immediate attention but do not prevent the school kitchen from continuing operations. Inspector Lucas Willis conducted the inspection at the facility located at 175 Omar Way, finding three major violations related to pest presence and surface cleanliness. The most significant concerns involved evidence of both cockroach and rodent activity in areas adjacent to the kitchen facilities.

Inspection Details

During this inspection, health officials discovered a dead cockroach in a sticky trap located in the office next to the kitchen. The inspector noted no other signs of cockroach activity at the time and directed staff to remove and replace the trap immediately while continuing to monitor the area closely for any further pest presence. More concerning was the discovery of rodent droppings in multiple locations throughout the facility. Inspectors found evidence of rodent activity on the floor near the exterior door in the kitchen break room area and on the floor of the PTA room adjacent to the kitchen. These findings prompted immediate requirements for thorough cleaning and sanitization of all affected areas. The inspection also revealed maintenance issues that could contribute to pest problems, including small gaps under both exterior doors at the back of the kitchen. These openings provide potential entry points for vermin and must be sealed to prevent future infestations. According to the person in charge during the inspection, the facility has already purchased rodent-proof door sweeps and plans to install them later this week.

Surface Cleanliness Violations

In addition to pest concerns, inspectors cited violations for inadequate cleaning of non-food contact surfaces. Specifically, debris buildup was observed in the dairy cooler door gaskets, which requires immediate cleaning and sanitization. These types of accumulations can attract pests and serve as breeding grounds for bacteria, making their prompt removal essential for maintaining food safety standards. The inspector emphasized the importance of continuing routine pest control services while addressing the immediate violations. Schools must maintain particularly high standards given their role in serving children, and even minor pest issues require swift corrective action.

Conditional Pass Requirements

The conditional pass status allows the school kitchen to remain operational while addressing the cited violations. Follow-up inspection is required by November 19, 2025, to ensure all corrections have been properly implemented. This tight timeline reflects the serious nature of pest-related violations, even when no immediate health risks require facility closure. School officials received the inspection report from Yuen Na Ng and must demonstrate complete resolution of all pest issues during the follow-up visit. The violations, while requiring immediate attention, are considered correctable through proper cleaning, sealing of entry points, and continued professional pest control measures.

Facility Background

This marks the first recorded inspection for Miraloma Elementary School in the department's current tracking system. The facility serves the Forest Hill/West Portal community and must maintain strict food safety standards as part of its food service operations. The conditional pass demonstrates that while violations were present, they did not pose immediate risks requiring closure. Swift correction of these issues will help ensure the facility maintains the high standards expected for school food service operations in San Francisco.