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Some conditions at Wethersfield's Hamner Elementary School -- one of several elementary school buildings proposed for a $239 million replacement or renovation. Credit: Wethersfield public schools

Today in Wethersfield, residents will Vote YES or NO on a referendum to renovate all town elementary schools. Voting YES is not a simple question of taxes or finances, but more about the health of Wethersfield students.

Ben Baldwin

I am writing to highlight the evidence-based benefits of new school construction – long-term student health, well-being, and success. Environmental factors are a major determinant of health and productivity, and our students are currently subjected to poor environments in the elementary schools. The below data, I hope, will shine light on how voting yes will positively impact our children.

Poor air quality, for example, can be physically detrimental and distracting for students. A UC-Berkeley study found that poor ventilation (1,000ppm increase in indoor CO2) was associated with a 4-5% drop in student attendance due to asthma or sickness. Conversely, research from the California Policy Lab found that students in newly constructed schools attend four more days per year, showing how better buildings keep kids in class. The physical benefits are matched with improved performance. Research shows that students solved arithmetic tasks 13% faster and scored 16% higher when classrooms had better air circulation.

More daylight exposure means a better circadian rhythm and higher cortisol levels, which help toward a more productive student body. In a study of over 20,000 students, those in classrooms with more daylight progressed 20% faster in math, and 26% faster in reading during one school year.

Air quality and lighting are two examples of new construction benefits, but there are plenty more with data to support. Think about acoustics/noise control, thermal comfort (HVAC), mold prevention, and general cleanliness. When it’s all put together, there are statistically significant improvements in student outcomes that go beyond the financial variable. I encourage readers to do independent research on these less-talked-about but critical cornerstones to better education.

The longer the Wethersfield people remain idle on this, the longer the children will not realize all of the benefits that go along with new school construction and renovation. Vote yes on September 16.

Ben Baldwin lives in Wethersfield.