A new report (PDF) from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) shows that an estimated 54% of public school districts need to update or replace multiple building systems or features in their schools. Improving HVAC systems is at the top of the list, with an estimated 41% of districts needing to update or replace HVAC systems in at least half of their schools, representing about 36,000 schools nationwide that need HVAC updates.

One of the biggest concerns is antiquated ventilation systems in schools, as experts have concluded that better ventilation and filtration are needed to mitigate the transmission of the COVID-19 virus. Fortunately, many states, along with the federal government, are now providing additional funds to schools so that they can update their inadequate HVAC systems, but some say that may not be enough.