Students return to hot first day of school in Hamilton and Halton

On the first day of school, students in Hamilton and Halton public schools, as well as the Halton Catholic board, returned to class. Many families in the area are adjusting to their Fall routines, even though Wednesday was hotter than most of the summer.

The Hamilton Wentworth District School Board has 93 schools of which 43 are fully air conditioned.

The board says another 13 have AC in about 90 per cent of spaces, and Westdale Secondary School having approximately 40 per cent air conditioning — leaving students feeling a little hot and bothered.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the board says 10 schools have AC that is under repair or not functioning.

During heat warnings, HWDSB advises precautions like limiting outdoor activities and monitoring for heat stress, and they have a Heat Event protocol in place. The school board says fans are also available upon request.

READ MORE: Hamilton issues heat warning with high temperatures forecasted

Environment Canada issued a heat warning for Hamilton with the humidex making it feel like 40 C. The City of Hamilton’s extended heat warning remains in effect on Wednesday.

Board Chair Dawn Danko says they haven’t needed full AC in the past because the weather isn’t usually this hot during the school year – but the climate is changing.

“We’re seeing more and more high heat days and extended heat periods and thats when we really notice a difference in our building,” said Danko.

Danko says the high cost is the reason all schools are not yet air conditioned.

“Hamilton has an aging infrastructure, particularly at our board, we are under funded and so it makes it very difficult,” she said.

The heat wave is expected to pass by Thursday.

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