Achieving Healthy School Siting and Planning Policies: Understanding Shared Concerns of Environmental Planners, Public Health Professionals, and Educators

This study considers how understanding and combining three research lenses- environmental planning, public health, and education policy- can better inform policy decisions regarding school building quality. Environmental planners consider environmental justice issues at the local level and/or consider the regional impact of a school. Public health professionals focus on toxic exposures and populations particularly vulnerable to negative health outcomes. Educators and education policymakers emphasize investing in the human capital of both students and staff. By combining these three research lenses, a stronger framework for school facilities can be created that recognizes students as vulnerable individuals and aims to foster healthier school environments where all students and adults can thrive.