Heat in classrooms could impact student learning as Memphis students head back to school

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – As students across Memphis prepare to return to class next week, local health experts are warning about an issue that could affect more than just comfort: extreme heat inside the classroom.

Last year, at least a dozen Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) were forced to dismiss early or delay opening on the first day of school due to widespread HVAC failures.

That included Treadwell Middle School, where students were sent home early when air conditioning units weren’t working.

With dangerously high temperatures once again in the forecast, families are getting creative to keep cool before summer break officially ends. FOX13 caught up with several parents at a splash pad this week.

“They do water and snacks and popsicles and a splash pad,” said Rachel Shipley, who’s soaking up the final days of summer with her kids. “They get the rosy cheeks and start getting crabby and cranky… that’s when we usually go in.”

But once students return to school buildings, options to cool down may be limited, and doctors said the consequences can be serious.

“When children are sitting in the classroom sweating, it’s hard for them to keep their attention when it’s not a comfortable temperature,” said Dr. Rudy Kink, a pediatrician at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. “We also worry about kids with asthma, heart conditions, or other underlying health issues. The heat can be more detrimental for them.”

Dr. Kink recommends parents send their children to school with insulated water bottles, loose-fitting light-colored clothing and check in with them each afternoon about how they’re feeling.

“Ask them how they did, how much they drank, and if they ate lunch,” he said. “Sometimes if a kid is overheated or nauseated, they may not want to eat at all.”

FOX13 reached out to Memphis-Shelby County Schools to find out what’s being done to prevent the HVAC issues seen last year. A district spokesperson said 10 new HVAC systems have been installed across the district and are in the final stages of testing. Maintenance crews have also been working overtime, including on weekends, to ensure buildings are cooling appropriately before the first day.

As of now, no school closures are planned due to HVAC repairs, but FOX13 will continue monitoring the situation and report any changes.

This article was originally published by FOX13.