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Katy ISD Assistant Director Receives Honor from EPA

Release Date: 12/04/2008
Contact Information: Dave Bary or Tressa Tillman at 214-665-2200 or r6press@epa.gov

(Dallas, Texas - December 4, 2008) Peggy Caruso, Assistant Director of Maintenance and Operations for the Katy Independent School District has been honored today by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in recognition of her outstanding commitment to a healthy school environment.

EPA presented Ms. Caruso with its National Special Achievement Award during the 9^th Annual Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools National Symposium in Washington, D.C.

“Good indoor air quality contributes to a healthy learning environment,” said EPA Regional Administrator Richard E. Greene. “EPA is honored to recognize Ms. Caruso for her efforts in implementing outstanding and effective indoor air quality programs.”

The Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools National Special Achievement Award recognizes individuals and organizations from across the country whose commitment to improved school indoor environments has led to tangible, sustainable indoor air quality management programs. These individuals and organizations demonstrate a significant dedication to student and staff health and wellness and have taken steps to leave a positive, lasting impact on their school system, the staff and students, and the entire community.

“Every school district should voluntarily implement the Tools for Schools program,” said Peggy Caruso. “The program can be used to coordinate a variety of activities that impact the learning environment. It saves money, is flexible and usable. Correcting problems before they occur has a positive affect on the education process.”

Peggy Caruso is one of Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools most distinguished champions. Not only is she intimately involved in the day-to-day operations of Katy ISD’s award winning Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools program, but also participates heavily in planning for major equipment overhauls, renovations to existing facilities, and construction of new buildings.

A special recognition ceremony and reception was held to honor recipients of the 2008 National Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools awards. To date, more than 200 schools and school districts nationwide have been recognized by EPA for their accomplishments in creating a healthy learning environment and maintaining healthy indoor air quality in their facilities.

More information about Tools for Schools is available at: https://www.epa.gov/iaq/schools/awards.html

More about activities in EPA Region 6: https://www.epa.gov/region6

EPA audio file is available at https://www.epa.gov/region6/6xa/audio.htm#audio120408_peggycaruso