Another School

 

Another school with an issue

Yes, another school,

One more added to the lot-

This is not cool.

 

From sick buildings

To contaminated atmosphere

Where breathing is hazardous

Because of impure air.

 

Another ministerial task

Searching for accommodation

For school staff and pupils

In a safe location.

 

 

From suspecting flooring

To mold on the walls,

From construction and incineration

With no fix in sight at all.

 

The constant MOE’s promise

Not to compromise health

Is becoming like a useless textbook

Still occupying a shelf.

 

The union is not happy

The parents are unhappy too,

John public is becoming frantic

And no doubt, so are you.

 

Another school under threat

And I have lost count

Not to mention other sick buildings-

An unusual amount.

 

There is a quality of life

That tens of millions can’t buy,

We are paying a price for progress

And many die.

 

 

The young and the old

And the very many in between,

Sick buildings and impure air-

What does it all mean?

 

We are not managing, I think,

As we ought to manage,

Proper maintenance is not optional

If we will control damage.

 

A closer look at schools

Public health and our buildings,

“A stitch in time saves nine”

No use in pretending.

 

Stewart Russell © January 18, 2024