More than 40 years ago, Congress banned harmful polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, from schools. And it’s been 37 years since Congress directed schools to address asbestos. But today, millions of schools continue to be plagued by these and other toxic chemicals.

Specific concerns:

Thousands of schools likely contain old lighting fixtures that leak PCBs, a known carcinogen.
Two-thirds of state educational agencies report schools containing asbestos, a known carcinogen, but the full scope of asbestos contamination and cleanup is unclear.
One-third of school districts that tested drinking water in 2017 found elevated levels of lead, a potent neurotoxin, and many schools report still having lead paint.
Nearly one in 10 U.S. children attends a school located less than a mile from a chemical facility.
A total of 54 percent of public school districts surveyed in 2019 have outdated heating and ventilation systems, which can lead to respiratory problems like asthma.
Pesticides linked to serious health harms – including glyphosate, 2,4-D and atrazine – are sprayed near schools and school playgrounds.
Cleaning and disinfecting products used routinely in schools can contain hazardous chemicals.
Children are especially susceptible to harm from chemical exposure. Yet many U.S. schools have not been upgraded to eliminate PCBs, asbestos, lead and other threats. Exposure to toxics has a significant, negative impact on educational outcomes, a Brookings study shows.