child has access to a safe and healthy learning environment, free from preventable health risks. We have the knowledge and tools to fix these problems. Now is the time for leadership and the moral courage to insist on healthy learning environments in every community across Pennsylvania.”
“ It is unacceptable that Pennsylvania’ s children and faculty, in 2025, are still ingesting environmental toxins every day they’ re at school,” said Pennsylvania Senator Devlin Robinson.“ I have been a strong proponent on bipartisan legislation that requires testing for lead and radon in schools since I first heard about the dangerous effects it has on growing bodies. I’ m glad to be working across the aisle on this meaningful legislation, and I will continue to fight to get these bills across the finish line. Thank you to Women for a Healthy Environment for this eye‐opening report and their advocacy in this important issue.”
Why It Matters: Studies show that students ' academic performance is greater when they learn in a healthy environment. All students deserve to learn and school personnel deserve to work in environments free from avoidable harm. These findings make clear: solutions exist, but securing healthy schools will require swift action, equitable investment, and higher statewide standards.
Environmental health isn ' t just about compliance or risk management. It ' s about creating optimal learning conditions that support every student ' s potential. The upfront investments in environmental health improvements often pay dividends through reduced maintenance costs, improved attendance, better academic outcomes, and enhanced community trust.
Environmental health is an ongoing commitment, not a one‐time project. Continuous improvement, and community engagement will ensure our efforts will create lasting positive impacts for students and staff.
For more information or to schedule interviews: Dolores Parker, Associate Director of Communications Dolores @ whepa. org | 412‐501‐3189 7371 Thomas Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15208 www. WomenForAHealthyEnvironment. org
Dr. Tamara Allen‐Thomas, Superintendent, Clairton City School District
About WHE: WHE is a non‐profit organization that empowers underserved communities to build resilience, promote equity, and safeguard children from environmental health hazards. We collaborate with families, schools, and early learning centers to create healthy environments where children can flourish. Guided by science, they advocate for policies and programs that foster equitable lives free from environmental harms.
412-404-2872 | 7371 Thomas Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15208 | www. WomenForAHealthyEnvironment. org