A study, supported by the U.S. EPA, investigated the impact of indoor environmental quality on student attendance across 31 schools in the Midwestern U.S. The research highlights the critical role of proper ventilation and air quality in enhancing the educational experience.
Over two years, researchers tracked indoor environmental conditions in 144 classrooms, involving more than 3,000 students. All classrooms relied on mechanical ventilation without operable windows or doors, emphasizing the influence of controlled indoor environments.
Key findings include:
Ventilation Rates and Attendance
The study revealed a strong link between ventilation rates and student attendance. A 1-liter-per-second-per-person increase in ventilation resulted in a 0.15% rise in the annual daily attendance rate.
Impact of PM2.5
Indoor particulate matter (PM2.5) levels also played a significant role. For each additional 1 μg/m³ of PM2.5, the annual daily attendance rate decreased by 0.19%.
Educational and Health Implications
Reducing absences not only improves academic outcomes but also offers broader social and economic benefits. Better ventilation and air quality reduce health risks and create healthier, more engaged students.
This research urges schools to prioritize air quality and ventilation, creating environments that support student well-being and academic success.
Read the full study here