Trial by Fire

Franklin High School, one of 37 non-air conditioned schools closed by the county Friday.
Franklin High School, one of 37 non-air conditioned schools closed by the county Friday.

The new Baltimore County Public Schools’ policy regarding school closings for hot weather was put to the test this week, and the system closed 37 non-air conditioned schools for today—just two days after the first day of school.

The new policy, adopted just this month, according to the Baltimore Sun, requires any schools without air conditioning to close if the heat index is expected to reach 90 degrees.

Considering next week is shaping up to be a scorcher, it is possible kids at these schools may not have school for several days (fun for kids, less fun for their parents). If the late summer heat wave continues, the BCPS superintendent, Dallas Dance, plans to ask the Maryland State Department of Education for a waiver so that students don’t have to make up all of those days.

More information on BCPS’ closings and weather policy can be found at its website. The Baltimore Sun has a run-down of the schedule for when county schools can expect to have air conditioning.

About Hannah Monicken

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