Schools across the United States are struggling to maintain safe and effective summer programs as record-breaking temperatures strain cooling infrastructure and threaten student learning outcomes.
Recent heat waves have prompted school districts in major cities and rural areas to implement emergency measures. The New York City summer school program experienced temperatures reaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit, with some classrooms having malfunctioning air-conditioning units. Districts in Washington D.C., Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and Illinois have canceled outdoor activities, suspended bus routes, closed summer programs entirely, or shifted to remote instruction due to dangerous heat conditions. Even when air-conditioning is operational, it frequently proves insufficient during extreme weather events like the heat dome observed this July.
Experts note that excessive heat impairs cognitive performance, particularly disadvantaging students already struggling academically who depend on summer remediation programs. Children are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses because their thermal regulation systems remain underdeveloped, causing them to sweat less and breathe faster than adults. Additionally, students without air-conditioning at home face compounded risks when schools also lack proper cooling, preventing their bodies from recovering during off-hours. Research demonstrates that when students cannot access outdoor recess due to heat restrictions, they struggle to expend energy and focus on academic work, while remaining indoors all day limits the developmental benefits of outdoor play.
The infrastructure challenge is substantial. A 2021 study found that over 13,000 public schools nationwide would require approximately $40 billion to install adequate HVAC systems. Many schools, particularly in northeastern states that historically did not require air-conditioning, were built decades ago and are difficult to retrofit. The average public school building in the United States is approaching 50 years old, while Philadelphia schools average 73 years old, requiring major structural modifications to improve cooling capacity.
School districts are implementing various adaptive strategies, including designating air-conditioned spaces as cooling centers, adjusting schedules to conduct activities earlier in the day, increasing hydration breaks, and training staff to recognize heat illness symptoms. However, experts emphasize that temporary solutions and emergency responses are insufficient. Long-term planning and infrastructure investment are needed to ensure schools provide safe and healthy learning environments as climate patterns continue shifting.
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