How Are Toxic Chemicals in Schools Putting Our Children at Risk?

You send your kids to school to learn and grow. But did you know that many school environments contain hidden dangers in the form of toxic chemicals? 

Toxic chemicals are often present in everyday school items, from uniforms to playgrounds. Unfortunately, many schools across the US are exposing children to hazardous substances without realizing it. These chemicals can affect students' health and development, raising serious concerns for parents and educators. 

Let’s explore this important issue and learn how to make safer choices.

Understanding the Proble

One of the most overlooked threats in schools is the presence of harmful chemicals in the infrastructure. Many school buildings still use outdated materials that can contain dangerous chemicals like asbestos or lead. In addition, poor ventilation can lead to poor indoor air quality, increasing the risk of exposure to chemicals released from cleaners or furniture. 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor school environments are filled with pollutants that can impact students' health. Chemicals like asbestos, formaldehyde, lead, mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and radon are too common in many school settings. Moreover, even harmless school supplies contain chemicals that can pose health risks. 

These toxins can leach out of products and enter children’s bodies through skin contact or when they put items in their mouths. Some chemicals found in school supplies include:

• Phthalates: Often used to soften plastics in items like lunch boxes and binders
• Lead: Can be present in certain paints and plastics
• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Used in water-resistant products like backpacks
• Asbestos: Sometimes found in crayons made with talc and older buildings

The Hidden Dangers of PFAS in School Supplies and Uniforms

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are another major school concern. Often called “forever chemicals,” PFAS are widely used in items like school uniforms, backpacks, and even non-stick food packaging in cafeterias. These chemicals do not decompose easily, meaning they remain in the environment for decades. 

Schools that use products containing PFAS unknowingly contribute to long-term exposure for students. Recent reports have found that PFAS can be found in 65% of children's uniforms, resulting in constant exposure. 

Moreover, The Guardian reveals that firefighter turnout gear was the only textile that had worse concentrations of PFAS than school uniforms. These revelations have sparked outrage among parents, demanding schools discontinue such products.

Another example of PFAS exposure comes from contamination near schools and water sources. PFAS pollution has led to a wave of lawsuits as communities fight against industries responsible for this contamination. In fact, some parents are considering joining the growing PFAS lawsuit to seek compensation for the harm caused by this exposure.

According to TorHoerman Law, these lawsuits aim to render manufacturers liable for the extensive PFAS contamination affecting communities across the US. Even the EPA has tightened its PFAS monitoring procedures, calling for more robust disclosure of the environmental dumping of these chemicals. The organization aims to promote openness and accountability from sectors responsible for PFAS pollution with this measure. 

The Dangers of Artificial Turf

Another potential danger in schools is the artificial turf used in playgrounds and sports fields. Many schools opt for artificial grass, thinking it’s safer and more durable. However, they might not know that this turf contains hazardous chemicals. 

According to Creative Destruction Media, these chemicals range from benzene, phthalates, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons to heavy metals like arsenic, mercury, and lead. These compounds pose significant health risks to children who come into direct contact with the turf. Moreover, the rubber pellets used to cushion artificial fields are often made from recycled tires and are loaded with carcinogens. 

Over time, these chemicals can leach into the soil or become airborne, affecting children and the environment.

Pesticides and School Gardens

Many schools are implementing green spaces or gardens to promote outdoor learning. While this seems like a healthy initiative, it can also introduce an unexpected danger: pesticides. Schools typically treat their grounds with chemical pesticides to control pests and weeds, unaware of the long-term effects on children’s health.

Beyond Toxics, a non-profit organization, has been working on reforms to reduce pesticide use in Oregon schools. The aim is to curb children's pesticide exposure in schoolyards, cafeterias, learning facilities, and sports venues. 

According to their research, the pesticides used in schools are more likely to harm young children as they’re still developing. However, legislators recently failed to pass the Toxic Free Schools bill, highlighting the significant work still needed to ensure safer environments for students.

How Toxic Chemicals Are Seeping Into Cafeteria Food?

Even the food children eat at school can expose them to toxic chemicals. Recent studies have found that many food products served in school cafeterias are packaged using materials that contain harmful substances. These chemicals, known as phthalates, can disrupt hormones and are linked to health issues like obesity and reproductive problems.

A 2022 Moms Across America report revealed that some school lunches contain elevated levels of heavy metals, pesticides, veterinary drugs, and hormones. 

Testings disclosed that over 95% of products contained glyphosate, a common weedkiller. In comparison, nearly 3 in 4 items had traces of at least one of 29 toxic pesticides. Moreover, all the lunch samples had concentrations of heavy metals up to 6,293 times higher than the maximum levels allowed by the EPA in drinking water. Finally, most samples contained low-level nutrients.

Unfortunately, children from lower-income families are often the most affected, as they rely on school-provided meals more frequently than others.

The Impact on Children’s Health and Learning

Long-term exposure to toxic chemicals can significantly impact children’s health and learning abilities. These chemicals can interfere with cognitive development, leading to attention disorders, memory concerns, and even learning disabilities.

 A story published in The Everett Herald reveals how one Washington-based teacher was exposed to PCBs without knowing the extent of the damage until symptoms arose.

Joyce Marquardt, a former teacher at the Sky Valley Education Center in Monroe, was issued $185 million in compensation along with two other teachers. Additionally, the jury settled for $45 million in punitive damages for each plaintiff. However, now there’s a risk of the court overturning the verdict due to a recent appeals court ruling. That said, the adult body can combat these toxins with some external help.

However, children are particularly vulnerable because their bodies are still developing. What might be a small exposure for an adult can lead to more significant health issues for children. This can impact their academic performance, social behavior, and long-term well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How can I check if my child's school is free from toxic chemicals?

You can start by asking your school administration about their chemical management policies. Request information on cleaning products, pest control methods, and building materials used. Consider joining the PTA to advocate for regular environmental testing and safer alternatives in your child's school.

Q2. Are there any safe alternatives to traditional school supplies?

Yes! Look for school supplies made from natural materials like bamboo or recycled products. Choose phthalate-free plastics and items labeled “non-toxic.” Many eco-friendly brands now offer safer alternatives for everything from notebooks to backpacks. Remember to read product labels carefully.

Q3. What steps can parents take to reduce their children's exposure to toxic chemicals at school?

Educate your kids about handwashing after using art supplies or playing outside. Pack lunches in glass or stainless-steel containers. Advocate for green cleaners and better ventilation in classrooms. Stay informed about your school's policies. 

Toxic chemicals in schools are a growing threat to children’s health and development. From PFAS in uniforms to artificial turf on playgrounds, there are many hidden dangers that parents and educators need to be aware of. By being aware of hidden toxins in school supplies and making informed choices, you can help protect your kids' health. 

Moreover, small changes in your shopping habits can make a big difference. As you prepare for the school year, take time to choose safer options. Your child's well-being is worth the extra effort.