Throughout the 2025-2026 school year, WCTA members used our SOS (Safe & Orderly Schools for Every Student) campaign to document conditions that interfere with teaching, learning, and workplace safety.
Across all levels, the SOS campaign documented recurring concerns in four major areas:
- Building systems concerns, including heating, cooling, and ventilation failures
- Environmental health hazards, including mold, pests, air quality issues, and sanitation concerns
- School safety concerns affecting staff and students
- Delays or inconsistencies in addressing reported concerns and disciplinary issues
The most frequently reported concerns involved building conditions. Members documented classroom temperatures ranging from 61 to 87 degrees, with some heating and cooling issues continuing for months despite repeated reports. Educators also reported concerns related to mold, rodents, insects, and poor air quality.
Members further raised concerns about school safety and the impact of disruptive or aggressive behaviors on the learning environment. Several reports highlighted delays in responding to safety concerns and inconsistent follow-through on disciplinary and administrative issues.
These reports make clear that too many educators and students continue to work and learn in conditions that fall short of what they deserve. The SOS campaign gives members a voice and provides WCTA with the data needed to identify districtwide trends, hold the system accountable, and advocate for timely action. WCTA will continue pushing for safe, healthy, and orderly schools because our students and educators deserve nothing less.