Many may not know that the Indiana State Department of Health requires all schools to implement some form of idling reduction on their grounds. The School Town of Munster has recognized this need in the past, but most parents, students and even teachers have been unaware that idling reduction is necessary to minimize exhaust fumes being drawn into buildings and is also important for the general reduction of harmful effects of automobile use.
A no idling policy is an easy way that the citizens of Munster can eliminate unnecessary waste in our town, and the Munster High School Environmental Club recognized this as a no-brainer sustainability effort that parents and students could get behind.
Cavin McNulty was tasked with presenting the club’s concerns during the public comment period of a school board meeting earlier this year. “At the time I think there were two signs at Munster High School and that was it, “ McNulty said. “We wanted to do something as part of the club and make change in the high school, and we saw that this was a problem.”
McNulty presented to the board and followed up with emails citing specific policy, benefits and ideas for placement of the no idling signs. School Board President John Castor responded quickly and brought the issue up to Superintended Brett Heller for review. The result is that there will be many more signs placed around the high school to remind drivers that no-idling is encouraged and necessary.
Superintendent Bret Heller stands with Cavin McNulty to display a no idling sign that will be placed at Munster Schools.
Dr. Bret Heller, Superintendent of Schools was impressed by the MHS Environmental Club’s insight and McNulty’s focused energy on this particular issue. “Cavin’s actions epitomize the spirit of responsible citizenship we aim to instill in our students. He identified an issue he was passionate about, conducted thorough research, and actively participated in local governance by bringing his concerns to this board, “ Heller stated. “As a direct result of Cavin’s diligence, we have acquired new “No Idling” signs that are currently being installed in the locations identified by Cavin at each of our facilities.”
The Munster Environmental Club is looking for more ways that Munster Schools and students can work to provide more sustainability to the town.
The IDSH document can be accessed here: IAQ Rule 410 IAC 33-4-3 https://www.in.gov/health/eph/files/BPM-Vehicle-Idling-2019.pdf
