The East Greenbush Central School District Board of Education approved a new policy at its public meeting on August 26 that outlines procedures schools must take when classrooms become uncomfortably warm.
The Extreme Heat Condition Days policy satisfies a new state mandate that requires action when the temperature in a classroom or support service space reaches 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
Prior to the state mandate, the district developed a capital project improvement plan to install central air conditioning in all five elementary schools. (Columbia High School and Howard L. Goff Middle School already have central air conditioning.)
Residents approved the capital project in May 2024 and air conditioning will be installed building by building over the next few years.
Suggested Actions at 82 Degrees Fahrenheit
- Turning off the overhead lights
- Pulling down shades or blinds
- Turning on fans
- Opening classroom doors and windows to increase circulation
- Turning off unused electronic devices
- Providing water breaks
If the temperature should reach 88 degrees Fahrenheit, students and staff will be removed from the affected space and moved to a cooler location, where practical. In cases where all other options are exhausted and temperatures remain above 88 degrees, the district may dismiss school early following its established early closing protocol.
“Creating a safe and healthy learning environment for students and staff is our top priority,” said Superintendent Dr. Kurtis Kotes. “This policy will provide important guidance in the short term while we move forward with our capital project and add air conditioning to all of our schools.”