Climate change and the pandemic have brought new attention to the dire conditions of the nation's schools and schools' lack of preparedness for both, especially to the terrible state of ventilation and indoor air quality. There are renewed calls at all levels for clean air and water, better ventilation and sanitation, and improved oversight of the…

Schools are an environment conducive to the spread of COVID-19. They are densely occupied for long periods. In fact, schools are where children spend the most time, other than home--often 30-40 hours per week. Like adults, children may shed and transmit the coronavirus, yet show no symptoms. Except for masks, there is no personal protection…

Sanitizers and disinfectants can play an important role in protecting public health. They are designed to kill "pests," including infectious germs and other microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Unfortunately, sanitizers and disinfectants also contain chemicals that are "pesticides." Exposure to persistent toxic…

Dry erase whiteboards come with toxic dry erase markers and toxic cleaning products. Dry erase markers labeled "nontoxic" are not free of toxic chemicals and can cause health problems. Children are especially vulnerable to environmental health hazards; moreover, schools commonly have problems with indoor air pollution, as they are more densely…