Statement from Edward J. McElroy, President, American Federation of Teachers,
 On Launch of Clinton Climate Initiative for Green Schools

The AFT participated in the annual U.S. Green Building Council Greenbuild conference, Nov. 7-9, in Chicago, where former President Bill Clinton announced the creation of the Clinton Climate Initiative, which is launching a Green Schools Program to retrofit schools and universities across America.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The AFT is pleased to have the opportunity to work with the U.S. Green Building Council and the Clinton Climate Initiative. Well-maintained buildings that are healthy and safe for students, staff and the environment positively affect teaching and learning. Teachers and school staff are in a unique position to fully understand this reality.  

Educators must be part of the dialogue on sustainable, healthy school buildings. The AFT will continue its work with local affiliates, promoting union involvement in the creation of green schools from the design and planning process, through construction and maintenance, to ensure that school buildings stay cost efficient and healthy for students and staff.

We look forward to being a part of this significant transformation of the public school infrastructure.

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