enviroMENTAL concerns

Sometimes I worry that the dilapidated facilities are a major underlying factor in the success of our students and our teachers.  Broken windows allowing gusts of wind to chill and unfocused students.  Hoards of asbestos lurking in the walls.  Dirty air and dirty carpets and dirty lockers and dirty sinks letting toxins fester.  I know policy makers wouldn't want to touch the subject because the dollars needed to fix the buildings trump even the loftiest of merit pay or innovative curriculum initiatives, but too many people get sick too often.  How is anyone supposed to work mentally when they are so uncomfortable physically?