Classrooms without air conditioning are unbearable

Regarding the Sept. 3 Gomers: I can't believe that the superintendents who dismissed early Aug. 27-31 really wanted to do so. I challenge The Gazette's editorial board to spend time in classrooms without air conditioning before passing judgment.

Having taught for 36 years, I know that teachers do everything they can to make their classrooms tolerable. Lights on? Lights off? Windows open or not? How many fans can you run in a room before students can't hear? Frequent water breaks lead to frequent restroom breaks. Yes, instruction time is lost when there is an early dismissal, and it is lost when students are sitting in classrooms of 100 degrees or more.

I subbed in my home district that week for two days in buildings that have air conditioning. What a difference! Students were focused and able to accomplish what they needed to do. On the third day, I was in a building that is not air-conditioned. Everyone in that building - students and staff - tried to do their best. But it was unbearable. So, yes, when it got to the hottest time of the day, they dismissed early.

It's easy to say that schools should stay in session. All educators would agree. But remember, buildings that heat up during the day are just as hot the next morning.

Gail Jentz

Delhi