Protect Our Children: Say No to Cell Towers on School Grounds

The construction of a cell tower on our children’s school campus has become a pressing concern for us, the parents and families of the district. Right now, a cell tower is being installed on the McNair Middle School playground, directly adjacent to Vandergriff Elementary School. This means children at both schools will be exposed daily to non-ionizing radiofrequency (RF) radiation.

The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified RF fields as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” Studies have also indicated links between RF exposure and tumor growth in lab rats. While the science continues to develop, one fact remains: schools should be safe places where children are free from unnecessary environmental risks.

This project was approved back in 2014 by a school board and community members who are now far removed from the consequences of their decision. Current families—whose children and school staff will actually live with these risks—were never consulted or given the chance to raise valid health and safety concerns.

It is not enough to halt this new tower’s construction. We must also take action to relocate existing towers already placed on school campuses throughout our district. If Fayetteville Public Schools is truly committed to providing a safe learning environment, then school grounds are no place for devices that may contribute to cancer or other long-term health risks.

Our Demands:
    1.    An immediate halt to the construction of the McNair Middle School cell tower.
    2.    A district-wide review of all existing cell towers currently on school property.
    3.    Relocation of these towers away from campuses to ensure children are not needlessly exposed to RF radiation.
    4.    Meaningful parent and community involvement in all future decisions regarding infrastructure projects that affect student health and safety.

We call upon the Fayetteville School Board, district leadership, and city officials to act swiftly and responsibly. Our children’s right to a safe and healthy school environment must come before corporate or financial interests.

Join us in urging district leaders to protect our children. Sign the petition today and stand with families who believe that even the smallest risk is too great when it comes to our children’s health and future.