Schools across Pennsylvania are crumbling and toxic.

Senator Hughes details lead and asbestos problems in schools statewide

The most notable examples are unfortunately found in my home city of Philadelphia. However, our problem spans the commonwealth. I have seen similar conditions in places such as McKeesport and Allentown. I have also read reports of numerous schools fighting issues with lead, asbestos, mold, carbon dioxide poisoning and more.

Pennsylvania’s schools are quite literally fail in regards to lead safety. And because of aging infrastructure and a lack of a comprehensive asset management plan, crumbling and toxic schools will continue to be the norm for districts with lower funding resources.

We cannot let that continue because crumbling and toxic schools are a public health issue. I am calling on my colleagues in Harrisburg to step up and make our children’s health and safety our top priority. We have fought and secured millions for immediate cleanups in Philadelphia, but we must do more and expand the scope to benefit all of our schoolchildren.

Roosevelt Elementary

Disston Elementary School – Cafeteria Floor

Pierce Elementary

James Logan Elementary School

Upper Dublin Auditorium

Randolph Technical High School

James Logan Elementary School

Upper Dublin Band Room

James Logan Elementary School

Upper Dublin Cafeteria

There are a number of existing proposals we can adopt if we get serious about fixing this problem. With the support a group of dedicated legislators, public officials, advocates, parents and children, I am also calling on local individuals, corporations and foundations to step up and address this issue. We have to end toxic schools once and for all.