Yonkers announces new plan as momentum grows at the state level to keep classrooms cool
There's a growing crackdown on classrooms reaching extremely warm temperatures.
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There's a growing crackdown on classrooms reaching extremely warm temperatures. It's a bill that is gaining fierce support from teachers in the Hudson Valley. And now, major changes are coming to Yonkers Public Schools to help with that problem.
Jennifer Vizcaino is getting ready for another year of teaching at Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy in Yonkers.
"There's so much to do, setting my calendar up for the year, making sure the computers are ready to work," says Vizcaino.
Also near the top of that list is making sure the fans in her classroom are working.
She says they are a necessity.
"We've had days when they've had to go to the nurse for extra hydration. We also have a high asthma population, the heat can trigger breathing issues," Vizcaino tells News 12.
But big changes are in the works.
Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and Superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools Aníbal Soler, Jr. announced Wednesday, the City of Yonkers will commit $5.8 million in capital funding over the next three years to invest in air conditioning in all of the District’s 39 public school buildings.
“In just over three months as superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools, I have seen firsthand the significant efforts made to enhance our educational facilities. Collaborating closely with Mayor Spano, I am fully committed to advancing the comprehensive three-year capital plan that addresses the growing need for climate-controlled learning environments. This plan reflects our dedication to providing every student and staff member with the best possible conditions to learn, work, and thrive. By continuing to invest in our facilities, we are preserving our schools history and ensuring everyone has the best possible advantage to succeed," says Superintendent Aníbal Soler, Jr.
On top of that, state education leaders are hoping Gov. Kathy Hochul signs a new bill into law that would require schools to have a plan for the heat.
"When it becomes 82 degrees, bring in fans or other remediation. When it gets to 88 degrees, they need to move the kids to a cooler place," says Melinda Person, the president of New York State United Teachers.
Person says that could include the hallway or the gym.
"Some reprieve from the heat throughout the day is something our staff is consistently aware of," says President of Yonkers Federation of Teachers, Samantha Rosado-Ciriello.
The decision on the bill now sits on Gov. Hochul's desk. We reached out to her office about what could be next. A spokesperson says the governor will review the legislation.
