For Immediate Release:

When Nicholas Baker was six years old, he was forced to walk through a cloud of toxic pesticide as he entered school. As a result of the exposure, Nicholas suffered a severe asthma attack. Following his recovery, Nicholas became a healthy schools advocate, testifying about children's vulnerability to toxic chemicals at the California Environmental Protection Agency, Air Quality Management Board, California Assembly, Los Angeles Unified School Board, and California Air Resources Board, which influenced public policy in Los Angeles Unified School District and California.

The Los Angeles Unified Policy called Integrated Pest Management (IPM) uses low risk methods to eliminate pests and weeds. The policy was the first in the United States to embrace the “Precautionary Principle” and parents Right to Know about products used in or around school sites. The success of the policy led to California Legislation, Healthy Schools Act 2000. The policy has become the model for school districts and communities throughout the nation.

“I’m very honored to receive this award, but this award belongs also to all of the people who have been working on these issues for years. Everyone plays a part in protecting human health, our ecosystem, and the environment. I ‘ll continue my work by encouraging others to embrace the “precautionary principle” and Right to Know. It’s important to prevent harm not only to our generation, but future generations to come. Everyone knows it’s much better to be safe rather than sorry,” said Nicholas Baker.

The Los Angeles Times, "Above & Beyond" Award for Community Service was presented to Nicholas during an awards ceremony at KIDS CITY at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.

For more information:
California Safe Schools (Non-profit)
Box 2123 Toluca Lake, California 818-785-5515  http://www.calisafe.org
email:  schoolipm@yahoo.com