Magazine Interview

How has attending a school near a highway affected your health or learning environment?

Attending a school near a highway has exposed students, including myself, to constant noise and potentially harmful pollutants. Sometimes, the noise makes it hard to concentrate, and I know several classmates who have developed asthma or other respiratory issues. Research supports that schools near highways, like ours, can experience higher rates of health issues and academic challenges due to the proximity to traffic pollution

What are your thoughts on the SIGH Act and how it addresses environmental concerns for students?

The SIGH Act is essential because it directly addresses the environmental issues that students near highways face daily. For instance, schools in high-traffic areas often experience elevated levels of air pollution. The Act's aim to reduce this exposure is crucial for student health. Breathing in polluted air can impact respiratory health and even concentration in the classroom. By lowering pollution levels, the Act helps create a healthier environment for students, which can improve their academic performance and overall well-being. I've personally seen this impact in my own school environment, where being near a highway can make it hard to stay focused in class due to the noise and air quality.

Do you believe that the SIGH Act addresses environmental racism, as some supporters claim?

Yes, the SIGH Act does touch on environmental racism. Highways were often built through marginalized communities, exposing these neighborhoods to more pollution. Because of this, students from Black and Brown communities are disproportionately affected. Limiting new school construction in these areas helps address this historical inequality, ensuring that all students have a chance to learn in a healthier environment.

Have you noticed differences between your school and schools in quieter, less polluted areas?

I've observed that schools in quieter areas have fewer interruptions from noise, which seems to help with focus and overall calm. At my school, near the highway, we’re constantly hearing traffic and sometimes even heavy truck sounds. It affects our learning atmosphere, and I think those in quieter areas might not realize how much quieter surroundings contribute to a focused environment.

If you had the chance to improve conditions at your school, what would you suggest?

I would advocate for more green spaces around the school to act as a barrier against pollution and noise. Installing advanced air filtration systems would also help with indoor air quality. Additionally, educating students and families on pollution and its impacts could empower us to advocate for more changes, like what the SIGH Act is trying to achieve.

How did you get involved with the Teen Activist Project (TAP) and what does your work entail?

   "I joined TAP because I wanted to make a difference in issues affecting my community, and I felt like TAP was a platform where I could learn about and contribute to real social change. Through TAP, I work on issues like digital equity, environmental justice, and the impacts of systemic inequalities, helping to amplify youth voices and influence policy."

What are the most important issues TAP is focusing on, and how do they connect to environmental justice?

TAP focuses on a range of issues that impact young people, including environmental justice, which is where the SIGH Act comes in. Many of us in TAP are passionate about reducing health risks for students in areas like mine, where highways contribute to pollution. We aim to raise awareness and advocate for policies that create healthier, more equitable environments for all students."

In what ways has TAP helped you understand or become more active in environmental justice issues?

Being in TAP has shown me how closely linked environmental justice is to other social justice issues. For example, pollution from highways disproportionately impacts low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. Through TAP, I've learned how historical policies contribute to these issues and how legislation, like the SIGH Act, can start to make a difference

How does TAP empower teens to make a difference in their communities?

TAP gives teens a platform to voice our concerns and connect with policymakers. We receive training in organizing, public speaking, and understanding the law, which helps us make a real impact. For example, through TAP, I’ve been able to raise awareness about the importance of clean air and healthy school environments, connecting with others who share this mission."

What would you say to other students about the importance of getting involved in organizations like TAP?

I’d tell other students that organizations like TAP offer a unique opportunity to learn and make a difference. When teens come together to address issues we care about, like air quality or environmental racism, our voices are stronger. TAP has taught me that even as students, we can influence policies that affect our lives and help build a better future.

What role do you think young activists play in advocating for policies like the SIGH Act?

Young activists play a huge role in advocating for policies like the SIGH Act. We bring fresh perspectives and personal stories that can highlight why these policies matter. By sharing our experiences and rallying support, we can push for change that improves conditions not just for ourselves, but for future generations.

What was it like going to a school so close to a highway?

Going to a school near a highway had a noticeable impact on daily life. The constant noise from traffic made it hard to concentrate in class, and we could often smell exhaust, especially on hot days when windows were open. Over time, I think it’s affected my classmates and me, not just in terms of learning but also in our health. Some of my friends have asthma or other respiratory issues, which we’ve come to learn might be linked to pollution from the highway.

How did the proximity to the highway affect your daily school experience?

   "The highway’s noise is pretty much a constant background in our school environment. Sometimes we have to pause during lessons if a loud truck passes by, and it can disrupt testing or focus in quieter activities. Beyond the noise, it’s hard not to think about the air quality, especially since studies show pollution can affect our ability to focus and even our academic performance. It feels unfair that students in schools near highways may have these extra barriers to success."

Were there any noticeable impacts on your health or that of other students due to pollution from the highway?

Yes, health issues are definitely a concern. Personally, I haven’t developed any respiratory problems, but I know several classmates who have asthma or allergies that seem to get worse over time. Studies have shown that pollution from traffic, especially diesel trucks, can lead to these issues. Knowing that we’re exposed to those risks every day makes me think about how important it is to address these environmental issues for future students."

Are there any safety concerns with the school’s location, and how does the school address them?

Yes, there are some safety concerns related to being near a busy road, especially for younger students. Traffic near the school can make crossing the road dangerous, and the school has put up signs and assigned crossing guards to help. But it’s a constant issue, and I know some students’ families worry about air quality and long-term exposure."

How has this experience shaped your views on urban planning or the environment?

This experience has made me much more aware of how urban planning can affect communities differently. It’s frustrating to see that highways were often built through neighborhoods like ours, impacting our health and education. I believe planning decisions should prioritize the health and safety of residents, especially for schools, and it’s inspiring to see movements pushing for environmental justice to address these issues."