Despite advocacy from governmental officials and parents alike, we urge caution in the reopening of public schools before the coronavirus pandemic is fully under control. We are especially concerned about the premature re-opening of schools in impoverished and flood-prone urban and rural environments. Years of deferred maintenance and infrastructure damage from adverse weather events have saddled schools in such areas with legacy pollutants and poorly functioning HVAC systems, making them potential hot beds for the next wave of coronavirus infections. To fix the so-called “sick building” problem, we outline a strategy that creates both business and job opportunities for the people who live in communities where the threats undergirding school re-openings are greatest.
Professor of the Practice, Impact Investment and Sustainable Finance, UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School
Profile Research