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How Air Filtration Systems in Schools Can Improving School Health, Academic Performance, and Attendance
By Afifa Chaudry and Dr. Benjamin M. Drury
A recently published article discusses the potential benefits of implementing air filtration systems in schools to reduce absenteeism, combat airborne infections, and improve academic performance. It highlights the increase in chronic absenteeism during the pandemic and the impact it has had on American productivity. The author argues that although the technology and funds are available to upgrade ventilation systems in schools, the lack of parental demand is hindering the implementation of this solution.
Indeed, there is grounds for the importance of air filtration systems in schools to address absenteeism and improve educational outcomes. Adequate ventilation and air quality have long been recognized as essential factors in creating a healthy learning environment. Many reasons exist for poor ventilation in schools. Firstly, the lack of implementation of adequate air ventilation systems in schools is almost always attributed to the absence of parental demand or involvement within the school. While parental involvement is undoubtedly crucial in shaping education policies, it is essential to recognize that parents may not have the necessary knowledge or resources to advocate for air filtration systems effectively. It is the responsibility of educational institutions, policymakers, and experts in public health to educate parents and communities about the benefits of such systems and mobilize support. Parents bring their children to the school with the hope and aspiration that the people within the building can keep their child safe, motivated, and engaged in some form of educational activity for the duration of their day. Parents do not bring their children to school so that they can develop COPD.
Secondly, while there are numerous potential benefits of air filtration systems, such an investment invites financial and logistical challenges associated with implementing these upgrades in schools. True, there are large sums of money that have been transferred to all educational institutions as emergency relief funds to support their students, little is known about the overall costs involved, ongoing maintenance requirements, and the potential trade-offs in…
