Preparing for the heat
As we transition into the final weeks of the school year and the temperatures are on the rise, SD83 would like to share some information about our schools and the heat with parents.
Many of SD83’s schools have full air conditioning or have air conditioning in part of the school. Some schools which have not yet had their HVAC (heating ventilation, air conditioning) systems upgraded do not have air conditioning and may be warm. Efforts, including ventilation and closing blinds when possible, will be used to help keep the classrooms cool. In all cases, particularly schools without air conditioning, principals are aware and monitoring indoor temperatures.
In the schools with partial or full air conditioning Direct Digital Controls (DDC) allow the district to remotely monitor temperatures and make adjustments to HVAC programming as required. SD83 HVAC technicians as well the school district’s DDC contractor monitor daily to ensure everything is being done to keep the temperatures as comfortable as possible.
Typically, heating/cooling is put to minimum levels at 5 p.m. when students are usually not in the building. With this hot weather, the systems are being adjusted to cool later into the evening to support the custodial staff as they clean.
In schools without air conditioning the ventilation system is used to pull cooler nighttime air from outside (free cooling) to cool down those classrooms. It is also being suggested blinds be closed to help keep the heat out.
Here are a few things you can do from home:
- Ensure your child is dressed appropriately for sunny weather, which includes lightweight, breathable clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Encourage your child to stay hydrated. Send them to school with water bottles and include hydrating options in their lunches and snacks.
If you have specific questions about your school, please reach out to your school principal. For more general information about sun and heat safety check out these websites: