Philadelphia schools make significant progress in asbestos management, according to Tony B. Watlington Sr.

The Philadelphia School District has reached a pivotal agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice to resolve a comprehensive five-year investigation focused on its asbestos management practices. This settlement marks a noteworthy transition for the district as it prepares for increased federal oversight in the coming years. Under the terms of the agreement, a federal court will monitor the district’s ongoing improvements in its asbestos program, which is essential to ensure the safety and health of students and staff in the district’s schools.

The district serves as the eighth-largest school system in the United States, encompassing over 300 buildings that contain various forms of asbestos, including materials found in paint, tiles, and caulk. Recognizing the persistent safety concerns voiced by families, educators, and advocates, the district is committed to ongoing transparency and accountability throughout this process. It aims to establish a learning environment where every child, educator, and staff member feels secure and comfortable.

As mandated by federal regulations, the Philadelphia School District conducts inspections of its buildings every six months. These inspections are designed to identify any potential damage to asbestos materials, with more than 600 assessments taking place annually. Scheduled on weekends and evenings to avoid disruption during school hours, these inspections reflect the district’s dedication to maintaining compliance and fostering a safe educational space.

Recently, representatives from the district made their initial court appearance related to the deferred prosecution agreement. This agreement acknowledges the district’s shortcomings in adhering to its inspection schedule but also highlights significant progress made in rebuilding its asbestos management program. Currently, the district is fully caught up with its inspection timeline, and all findings are now publicly accessible online, including detailed reports of the condition of asbestos materials in each school.

In an effort to bolster its asbestos management efforts, the district has increased communication with school principals and facility managers while tripling its environmental management budget. It has also implemented enhanced data management software to ensure better tracking of environmental conditions across the district.

Moving forward, the Philadelphia School District has outlined a commitment to regular inspections and prompt responses to any asbestos-related damage. Scheduled training for key personnel will also be executed to deepen their understanding of effective asbestos management practices. Moreover, the district has pledged to share regular progress reports under the DOJ agreement, with a focus on transparency and accountability.

The district recognizes that these longstanding issues cannot be resolved overnight. However, with an emphasis on ongoing vigilance and investment, it is dedicated to prioritizing the safety of its environments and upholding the trust of the communities it serves. As work continues to enhance school conditions, the district is urging stakeholders to actively observe its journey towards improved environmental management and accountability.

For more information on the district’s efforts and to access inspection reports, visit the Philadelphia School District’s environmental management website.