Bill Clinton: “Today is National Healthy Schools Day-- established to build awareness and promote healthy school environments for our…”

“Today is National Healthy Schools Day-- established to build awareness and promote healthy school environments for our children and school personnel. Many organizations--including the Healthy Schools Network in New York--have worked together over the years to educate their communities as well as local, State, and Federal elected officials of the conditions that many of our children and teachers are subjected to on a daily basis. I strongly believe the work of these organizations is crucial in fostering the development and well being of our Nation's children. That is why I am proud to join them in this effort as the sponsor of resolution recognizing April 28, 2008 as National Healthy Schools Day. By recognizing this day, Congress can promote healthy school environments for all children, teachers, principals, and school staff. Over half of our Nation's schools have environmental problems linked to poor indoor air quality. Poor IAQ can cause a wide range of academic problems for the millions of children attending these schools, including lack of concentration, respiratory illnesses, learning difficulties, and even cancer. Furthermore, millions of school absences each year are attributed to health problems caused by poor IAQ or other unhealthy school environments. It is imperative that we address these problems.”