When You're Hot, You're Hot

It has been a tough back-to-school week for many Massachusetts students, with soaring heat and high humidity. In fact, several school districts shortened their school day and at least one district cancelled classes entirely on Thursday.

Franklin students were not immune. One parent, who contacted the Observer, was concerned not only about the heat but also about the possibility that school policies might be making the situation worse.

In an email, she stated that her daughter in middle school believed air conditioners were being removed from the school. The source of that information may have been a teacher who complained of being extremely hot and told the students if they had questions or concerns about the heat in the school, they should “speak to the town.”

Asked about this, school department marketing and communications specialist, Lily Rivera, offered assurances. She said the district has not removed any air conditioning units from the buildings at this time.

“Superintendent Giguere visited a few of the buildings this week, and noted that our building-based administrators have created a sign-up system to assist in rotating teachers to cooled air-conditioned spaces throughout their school,” she said.

“As always, our staff continues to monitor students and advise appropriately if a concern arises, especially during recess, physical education classes and other extracurricular activities,” she added.

That may be cold comfort to kids and faculty that only know they were hot and uncomfortable for most of the week. Fortunately, more seasonable temperatures are expected for the balance of the month.