Healthy indoor air is fundamental to good overall health, especially for children in school. Indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, impacting everything from student health and attendance to academic performance and overall well-being. This is particularly troubling because children's lungs are still developing. Children breathe more air relative to their body weight than adults. This makes them more susceptible to the harmful effects of indoor air pollutants like mold, dust and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Additionally, schools can harbor high pollutant levels due to factors like:
- High occupancy density
- Diverse activities (cafeterias, gyms, labs)
- Cleaning products and maintenance activities
- Inadequate ventilation systems
Research has shown that poor indoor air quality (IAQ) has wide-ranging negative consequences, such as:
- Health problems: Poor indoor air quality can trigger or worsen asthma, allergies, respiratory infections, headaches and fatigue.
- Academic performance: Studies have linked poor indoor air quality to decreased concentration, reduced cognitive function and lower test scores.
- Absenteeism: Increased illness leads to more missed school days for both students and staff. Asthma is a leading cause of school absenteeism.
- Productivity: Teachers and staff also suffer from reduced productivity and increased sick days when indoor air quality is poor.
- Building issues: Poor ventilation and moisture problems can damage school buildings and HVAC systems, leading to costly repairs.
That's why we at the American Lung Association are excited to share a compelling new case study that highlights a practical and effective pathway to improving indoor air quality in schools.
This insightful report details a collaboration between Lakes International Language Academy (LILA), Carrier and the American Lung Association. Together, we embarked on a data-driven indoor air quality assessment within a small school district, providing a model for other districts to follow.
Why is this case study so important?
This case study offers real-work application of comprehensive indoor air quality assessment utilizing both qualitative and quantitative measures. The study emphasizes the power of data in identifying specific pollutants and informing targeted interventions. LILA’s experience demonstrates that even small schools with limited resources can make significant strides in understanding their indoor air quality. Ultimately, the case study provides a framework for success, aligning with EPA’s Tools for Schools framework for schools to organize, communicate, assess, plan, act, and evaluate their indoor air quality management efforts.
This case study offers valuable lessons for all school districts committed to the well-being of their students and staff. It underscores that a proactive, data-informed approach to indoor air quality is not only possible but essential.
Ready to learn more?
Download the full case study to discover the practical steps LILA took and how your school district can implement a similar data-driven strategy to ensure cleaner, healthier air for everyone. Visit www.lung.org/casc.
Blog last updated: August 13, 2025
