Get the
support of the state NEA affiliate.
Randy Boyd, West Virginia
I think
teachers first need to be educated as to what causes these
[IAQ] problems and where to look for the causes. Teachers
need to know what they can do for themselves, how to initiate
Tools for Schools in the district, and how to fight back if
all else fails.
Barbara Gutman, Vermont
The administration
can be hesitant to accept members† advice and assistance on
potential IAQ issues in the school building.
Frank Czapla, Jr., Pennsylvania
Connect
with other agencies.
Glen Robbins, Washington
Be very
aggressive with your board members and administrators when
you feel there is a need for action. Too often we take the
first NO and end our pursuit there. We must help everyone
understand that there may be a problem that no one person
is aware of. Money is always going to be the largest barrier.
But even this can be breached if one person feels that their
child may be in danger. That has been my strongest argument
with the best results.
Mark Kaiser, South Dakota
Be prepared
for resistance! And/or apathy! Folks are either vehemently
opposed to opening the ‹Pandora†s boxÊ of IAQ, or don†t care
about it at all.
Barbara J. Arends, Alabama
Be sure
to plan ahead and inform your local membership on the barriers
you may face. Just because the air quality is poor, don†t
expect immediate results.
Wayne Barnes, North Carolina
Planning
IAQ activities is time consuming. Make this a priority and
get rid of other association responsibilities. Get a core
group of 2-4 dedicated supporters from teaching or support
staff to get out notices of meetings and make reminder calls.
Continue to network to include participation of all stakeholders.
Establish and ensure a positive and respectful atmosphere
in communications and at meetings.
Kathryn Scruggs, Virginia
NEA Health Information Network