Photo: Klaus Vedfelt / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Summer school classes at the Public Service Leadership Academy at Fowler in Syracuse are canceled today due to air conditioning problems. One of the school's two major AC units is out of service because of a faulty motor, which was scheduled for replacement yesterday. However, school officials determined there would not be enough time to cool the building adequately.
The Syracuse City School District has opted not to use portable air conditioners at Fowler, as these units are intended for buildings without any air conditioning. According to Change.org, the district has over 600 portable AC units that remain unused because they have not been fully installed or approved for use yet.
This cancellation comes amid a heatwave in Central New York, which has already led to the closure of several schools and the implementation of half-days for others without air conditioning. On Monday (July 14), Syracuse experienced record-breaking temperatures, prompting the district to make adjustments to school schedules, as reported by Syracuse.com.
The situation highlights ongoing challenges related to climate change and the importance of adequate cooling systems in schools. New York State has passed legislation requiring classrooms to maintain temperatures below 88°F, emphasizing the need for effective cooling plans.