Tools for Schools: Guides from the EPA for Good Indoor Air Quality

Why is indoor air quality (IAQ) so important in a school?

Good indoor air quality promotes positive outcomes such as:

  • Lower cases of colds & flu
  • Less asthma attacks, allergies, headaches, & fatigue
  • Increased cognitive function, leading to student learning & achievement

Read our book, Environmental Equity: Closing the Opportunity Gap in Urban Schools for more statistics on the positive correlation between good IAQ and student outcomes!

What is the US EPA’s Tools for Schools?

The United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Action Kit shows schools how to carry out a practical plan to improve indoor air at little or no-cost, using straightforward activities and in-house staff.

The EPA offers a list of materials for IAQ coordinators at the school & district level, including:

The purpose of these documents is to provide information on why good IAQ is important, how IAQ problems develop, and how to improve it.

By offering these resources, districts will gain access to preventative measures to stop poor air quality in their schools and guidance on how to create the best possible learning environment for students and staff.

Check out this EPA page for links to all of the resources!

There’s an App!

Schools can get the mobile IAQ assessment app to keep all guides and references provided by the EPA to ensure their buildings are on track for good IAQ.

Additional Resources on IAQ