Hartford Public Schools, Hartford, CT

Hartford Public Schools (HPS) was challenged by old buildings and limited resources. HPS put together the components of success over time. At first, there was a single pilot project. But, they used that example to build momentum and support; used the support to build a training program; used the training program to create school-based Health and Safety Teams; used the teams to assess the facilities; and so on. And now, they are ensuring sustainability by reinforcing the program with IAQ Tools for Schools on Health and Safety Team agendas and active outreach to administration and principals that emphasizes the relationships among IAQ management, student health and student performance.

“Although many programs compete for attention at HPS, the IAQ initiative is sustained because health leadership continues to see the value of IAQ Tools for Schools in supporting a healthy learning and teaching school environment.” Paula Schenck, University of Connecticut Health Center

Results:

• Decrease in asthma visits to school health rooms over the initial three years of systematic data collection.
• Sustainable and active health and safety teams in the majority of schools.
• Greatly enhanced staff commitment, involvement and stewardship of facility health.
• Widespread staff awareness of how and why to report IAQ concerns; IAQ Tools for Schools recommendations used in renovations and new buildings.
• Proactive approach ensures IAQ problems are addressed in a systematic and timely manner.