Press Release

CPS Prepares Schools for Coming Heat Wave

Distributes Guidelines and Makes 1150 Fans Available to Schools Citywide

June 30, 2011

Chicago Public Schools took steps today to alert schools to the coming heat wave and adequately prepare facilities to ensure students are comfortable, well hydrated and receive the nutrition they need.

CPS has been calling and visiting schools today to see what resources they may need to ensure students have comfortable school environments during tomorrow’s heat. More than 1,150 fans are available to schools to prepare for the rising temperatures. While many schools have total or partial air conditioning, we are making these additional fans available to those schools that may need them.

The district has also distributed guidelines to schools that detail simple steps schools can take to address the situation including:

Draw shades in rooms to keep sunlight out
Turn off overhead lights when not required for instruction
Move classes to cooler rooms and lower level rooms when possible
Use fans whenever possible
Limit outdoor activities including field trips and recess to small durations in the early morning
Keep students hydrated by providing water at all times

CPS is also asking parents to take steps including dressing their child in light cotton clothing, dressing their child in shorts or skirts, and sending them to school with a water bottle than can be reused throughout the day.

CPS will be monitoring the situation in schools across the city tomorrow and responding with additional resources as needed.