Hartford, Conn. WTIC Radio)-The President of the Connecticut Education Association, Kate Dias, said improving air quality inside schools sends a message that the status of educators' work, like everyone else, is not "second class".
Dias said the working conditions contribute to the "teacher shortage and crisis". The measure, tasking Boards of Education with improving the air quality, is before the Labor and Public Employees Committee.
"To find better conditions in the Mall than our public schools is problematic. It really is a statement of values about where our community resources should be dedicated," Dias said.
State Representative Mitch Bolinsky(R-Newtown) said he's been advocating cleaner air quality in schools for a decade. He said once the students graduate from the building "the teachers remain for 25 years. Exposure is a very serious public health risk", for those inside the schools. Bolinsky said he hopes federal money can be used to rectify any issues.
Governor Lamont has proposed legislation dedicating $90 million for school districts for heating ventilation and cooling systems. His office said that includes other air quality improvements for schools.