Too Hot for School! WNY Districts Cut Hours Due to Heatwave!
Colaboradores
Western New York school districts are taking action to protect students from the expected excessive heat early next week. Several districts, including Buffalo, Amherst, Williamsville, and Niagara Falls, will implement half-day schedules at elementary schools on Monday and Tuesday.
The decision comes as a response to the discomfort and potential health risks associated with high temperatures in classrooms, especially in older buildings lacking air conditioning. As Giana Young, an eighth-grade student at Gaskill Preparatory School, stated, "And this heat–it’s too much, way too much.” Her classmate, Brielle London, added, "Yes, it's too hot," when asked about being in a hot classroom.
Principal Derek Zimmerman of Gaskill Prep emphasized the importance of the adjustments. "It gets to a point where it is so uncomfortable and students could get dehydrated very quickly, become ill, nauseous when they do get overheated, and the same with adults – we have to keep an eye on them as well,” he explained.
The shortened school days aim to minimize students' exposure to the heat during the hottest parts of the day. School officials are encouraging parents to ensure their children stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during the heatwave. This preemptive measure highlights the districts' commitment to student well-being during these final days of the school year.
What You Need To Know
- Several WNY school districts are implementing half-day schedules on Monday and Tuesday due to excessive heat.
- Affected districts include Buffalo, Amherst, Williamsville, and Niagara Falls.
- Older school buildings lacking air conditioning are particularly vulnerable.
- School officials emphasize the importance of hydration and limiting strenuous activity.