EPA's School Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Newsletter
Spring Edition
Spring can feel like the home stretch for school staff and students, but it is also an important time to consider IAQ for a healthy end to the school year. As spring storms start and air conditioning systems start running, schools may face challenges with leaks, humidity and maintaining comfortable temperatures. Students and staff may struggle with asthma triggers like pollen and mold. Addressing leaks immediately before mold growth starts; completing regular maintenance on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems; and using high efficiency filtration in HVAC and portable air cleaners can help minimize these IAQ problems.
To learn more, check out EPA's extensive library of school IAQ training webinars. For example, to learn about operating and maintaining efficient HVAC systems from experts, you can start with EPA's webinar recording on Using Ventilation Practices to Promote Healthy IAQ in Schools.
Keep reading for the latest school IAQ resources from EPA and its partners.
EPA and partner resources
Register for the 2026 Better Buildings Summit!
The U.S. Department of Energy's 2026 Better Buildings & Better Plants Summit will be held May 11-13 at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City in Arlington, VA. The Better Buildings & Better Plants Summit offers participants the opportunity to explore emerging technologies, connect with market leaders and industry experts, and share innovative strategies for energy, water, waste and cost savings.
Secure your spot now for this interactive event to experience dynamic sessions, workshops, and invaluable opportunities to connect with industry peers and national experts. This year’s programming includes a public sector meet-up, where attendees from K-12 school districts, and state and local governments will convene to showcase innovative partner achievements, engage in peer-to-peer conversations, and discuss trending energy topics relevant to well-managed buildings. View this year’s schedule in the 2026 Agenda at-a-Glance.
2026 National Radon Poster and Video Contests Winners
The American Lung Association, in collaboration with the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors, announced the student winners of the 2026 National Radon Poster and Video Contests. These annual contests are part of a nationwide effort to increase awareness of the health risks of radon gas and the importance of home testing. Exposure to radon is a serious health risk. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and the number one cause of lung cancer in people who have never smoked. State radon programs also host their own poster contests. Contact your state radon program for more information on how to submit an entry.
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