Initiatives

Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have common warm temperatures, and as a result, people often do not perceive excessive heat as a danger. Temperatures are rapidly increasing worldwide and in the Caribbean region due to human-induced climate change. Heat and humidity are reaching dangerous levels, suggesting that local populations are likely experiencing more heat stress and danger than they are accustomed to. In this context, it is crucial to understand how extreme heat impacts our educational environments, places where the community spends a significant portion of their time. This study aims to understand the perceptions and experiences of employees in these institutions and to seek solutions to better adapt to this new climatic reality. The information you provide is essential to help us identify and evidence how extreme heat affects the health and well-being of employees in educational settings. Your participation is anonymous, voluntary, and confidential.

The institutions participating in the study are the University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus (UPR-RCM), the University of Albany, the University of the Virgin Islands, and the University of South Florida. This research project is funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Climate Adaptation Partnerships (CAP)/Regional Integrated Sciences and Assessments (RISA): Grant Number: NA22OAR4310545.

The study objectives are: 1) To analyze and understand the perceptions, vulnerabilities, and experiences of employees on school premises regarding extreme heat, as well as the associated risks and barriers; and 2) To identify potential solutions and adaptations to face these conditions in the educational environment.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE IN THE STUDY?

You can participate in the study if you are currently an employee of any public or private educational institution (this may include: teacher, teacher’s aide, therapist, psychologist, social worker, maintenance staff, cafeteria staff, administrative staff (principal, secretaries, etc.), nurse, security personnel) and are over 21 years old.

Participants who live in Puerto Rico: https://forms.gle/uupqPhXZtqgGKsBA7 

Participants who live in the US Virgin Islands: https://forms.gle/dUWDLwD5YWrkLiC66