I am a student at Damien High School in La Verne, CA, one of the schools within the LA County Unified School District. Like many others, I am currently grappling with extreme allergies, uncontrollable coughing, and painful eyes resulting from the smoky air and ash produced by the surrounding wildfires. These conditions greatly affect our ability to concentrate and learn effectively in school, so we're pleading for a temporary closure of all schools until the air quality returns to a safe level.

An increasing number of wildfires, as seen in recent years, have led to worsening air quality in many parts of the state. A report from the American Lung Association reveals that the particulate matter pollution in Los Angeles County is amongst the highest in the nation. Exposure to such pollutants can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma and allergies, especially amongst children and teenagers whose lungs are still developing (Source: American Lung Association Annual Report).

Hence, keeping schools open during such periods not only hampers academic performance but is also a potential health hazard for students. We urge the LA County Unified School District to prioritize the health and well-being of its students, by cancelling school in areas greatly affected by wildfires until the air quality improves to a safe level. Please sign this petition to show your support and help protect the health of students in our district.