HAGÅTÑA (The Guam Daily Post) — Guam, alongside the Indiana and DC state boards of education, received grants from the National Association of State Boards of Education Healthy School Facilities Network and was commended by NASBE for their achievements.
The HSFN started in 2022 in response to NASBE’s analysis on lead testing and remediation in school drinking water. Its goal is to empower states to ensure healthy school facilities for all students. Each participating state board received a $10,000 grant to form teams of leaders to work on improving school facilities.
“Unpacking the subject of healthy school facilities and taking steps to remediate health hazards is a daunting task,” Celina Pierrottet, NASBE’s associate director of student wellness, said in a press release.
Throughout the project, state teams attended training sessions and connected with experts. The focus was on raising awareness among stakeholders to get support for policy efforts and investments in school facility improvements.
Motivated by presentations on lead in school drinking water, the Guam team partnered with the Guam Waterworks Authority. This collaboration resulted in testing drinking water in five schools. The Guam team studied lead testing requirements to prepare for an islandwide testing initiative by 2025.
“Through this engaging process with NASBE, members of the Guam team received valuable information and technical assistance. The focus on healthy schools aligns with the latest version of our strategic plan, and working alongside community partners is helping to ensure a healthy environment for students to learn and succeed,” said Guam Education Board Chair Mary Okada.
NASBE President and CEO Paolo DeMaria highlighted the crucial role of state boards of education in ensuring healthy learning environments.
