Newark Public Schools, Newark, NJ

As the record-holder for the most school facilities over 100 years old, Newark Public Schools (Newark) faced a challenge when in 2004, New Jersey enacted new school IAQ regulations. As a result, Newark organizes its activities into phases with defined measures of success. Newark starts with small tasks to build momentum to support bigger goals. For example, when Newark transitioned to green cleaning, they first educated occupants and custodians about the new products and the reasons for the switch. After a trial period, they asked for feedback. If anyone had reservations, facilities management listened and found an alternative. This “educate, test, listen and refine” approach to IAQ management engaged the entire school community and built trust and support for the IAQ program.

Results:

• Observed decrease in missed school days since IAQ program implementation and asthma-friendly policy changes.
• Switched all chemical cleaning products to green alternatives.
• Experienced fewer and less severe IAQ problems.
• Only school district to win the Facilities Masters Award from the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) for four consecutive years.
• Achieved widespread community buy-in and support through a commitment to transparency and honesty.
• Continued positive environmental changes by installing solar panels on five facilities, thereby reducing the district’s carbon footprint by 400 tons of carbon dioxide.