As kids head back to school, the focus is on supplies, schedules, and setting them up for academic success. But there’s one vital piece of the back-to-school puzzle that often goes unnoticed: air quality. Whether in the classroom or at home doing homework, the air students breathe can directly affect their health, focus, and learning outcomes. With allergies, viruses, and pollution on the rise, it’s time to make indoor air quality a top priority this school year. Here’s why air quality matters—and how parents, schools, and caregivers can help create healthier spaces for students to thrive.
Why Air Quality Affects Student Health and Performance
Research has consistently shown that poor air quality—especially in indoor spaces—can trigger asthma and allergies, spread airborne illnesses, reduce concentration and cognitive performance, as well as impact sleep and mood. Children are especially vulnerable because their lungs are still developing, and they breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults. Clean air isn’t a luxury in schools—it’s essential for student health and learning.
What’s in the Air at School?
Some common pollutants that affect school and home air quality include:
- Dust and mold from HVAC systems or damp areas
- CO₂ buildup in crowded classrooms
- Cleaning chemicals and VOCs from paints, supplies, or disinfectants
- Outdoor pollutants like wildfire smoke, pollen, or vehicle exhaust seeping indoors
Five Ways to Improve Air Quality for Students This School Year
Here are some practical steps that schools and families can take:
- Use Air Purifiers in Classrooms and Study areas. Venta Air Purifiers can remove up to 99.995% of airborne particles like dust, pollen, bacteria, and viruses as small as 0.07 microns (depending on the model). Even one purifier in a classroom can make a significant difference in respiratory health.
- Increase Ventilation. Opening windows when the weather permits helps bring in fresh air and dilute indoor pollutants. Schools should ensure HVAC systems are maintained and functioning properly, with filters replaced regularly.
- Reduce Exposure to Harsh chemicals. Choose low-VOC or non-toxic cleaning supplies and school materials whenever possible. Many “green” cleaners are just as effective and far less irritating to students with sensitivities.
- Monitor Air Quality Regularly. Some schools are using indoor air quality monitors to track CO₂ levels, humidity, and pollutants. For parents, consider a small air quality monitor at home to keep study spaces clean and comfortable.
- Create Allerty-Friendly Classrooms. Minimizing classroom clutter, using washable curtains, and eliminating old carpets can reduce dust and allergens. Teachers and staff should also be aware of students with asthma or allergies and plan accordingly.
Breathe Easy This School Year
As students get back into the rhythm of school routines, let’s not overlook the quality of the air they breathe every day. With a few proactive steps, we can reduce illness, boost focus, and create healthier environments where kids can truly thrive—both inside and outside the classroom.
