Stretched Podcast Eps. 12 and 13: The Lived Experience of Building Conditions, Parts 1 and 2

Stretched
Episode 12: The Lived Experience of Building Conditions, Part 1

In this episode, David Sturtz and Mary Filardo speak with Jerry Roseman, Acting Director of Environmental Science and Occupational Safety & Health for the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers. Jerry discusses his extensive experience in environmental science and school safety, and emphasizes the importance of understanding the lived experiences of those in school environments. The discussion also covers the limitations of facility condition assessments (FCAs) and the necessity of listening to stakeholders to prioritize needs effectively. Jerry draws parallels between storytelling and data, advocating for transparency and open communication to foster collaboration between school administrations and communities.

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Episode 13: The Lived Experience of Building Conditions, Part 2

In this episode, David Sturtz and Mary Filardo continue their conversation with Jerry Roseman, focusing on the multifaceted aspects of facility condition assessments (FCAs) in schools. Jerry emphasizes the importance of understanding the lived experiences of occupants within school buildings, arguing that FCA data alone cannot capture the full picture of a facility’s condition. He shares examples from the Philadelphia School District, illustrating how decisions are made based on a combination of quantitative data and qualitative insights from the community. The discussion highlights the need for a culture of caring and trust within educational environments, which can significantly impact the effectiveness of health and safety measures in schools.

The conversation also delves into the challenges of establishing clear standards for health and safety in school facilities, particularly regarding environmental contaminants like asbestos and lead. Jerry argues that while there are some standards in place, the lack of enforcement and clear action plans often leaves schools vulnerable. The episode concludes with a call to action for school districts to adopt a more proactive approach to facility management, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and community engagement to ensure safe learning environments.

Listen to this episode and others on:
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeart | Amazon Music

Stretched, a podcast hosted by David Sturtz of Sturtz and Co. and Mary Filardo of the 21st Century School Fund and the National Center on School Infrastructure (NCSI), takes listeners inside the real challenges and possibilities in designing and operating our nation’s public schools.