Clean Green Schools
Children and teachers are more likely to be healthier and perform better in schools that are clean and green.
Most schools could improve environmental factors that influence the health, safety and learning of children and the effectiveness of teachers.
Older school buildings may be damp and moldy. Carpets collect dust and allergens. Lack of ventilation may result in accumulations of toxins .Lighting, airflow, and noise all can affect your child’s ability to learn.
Spend some time at your child’s school and notice what you smell, see and hear. and how you feel. Is the building clean? Do you notice the smell of toxic cleaning products or fumes?
Notice if the school smells musty or you start to have allergic reactions such as sneezing or watery, itchy eyes. Look for leaks and ceiling damage.
What kind of flooring does the school have? Is there adequate ventilation, especially in modular buildings to avoid buildup of toxins in the air.
Notice the lighting and noise in the classroom. Studies show natural lighting improves productivity and test scores. And a quiet classroom can improve ability to focus for children and teachers.
Contact school administrators to discuss environmental problems that may be affecting your child’s health or ability to learn. The action you take now may prevent health and learning problems in the future.