Too Hot to Learn
As a parent of a Los Angeles high school student, I am filled with fear.
For the moment, let’s not address the drug problems, gang violence, overcrowded classrooms, inadequate textbooks and shortage of basic educational supplies. Let’s not address deteriorating test scores and the disintegration and fragmentation of family and community stability brought about by year-round school schedules.
Let’s not focus on educational issues at all, as it doesn’t seem to be a priority of the school board or our state.
Let’s simply focus on the health and safety of our children. Someone please tell the school board that we live in a desert, that the vast majority of San Fernando Valley schools are not air-conditioned, that the National Weather Service reports highs for this area of 105 in August, 110 in September and 108 in October.
Tell the school board that some classrooms reach temperatures well over 100. Tell the school board about hyperthermia, heat exhaustion, dehydration, fever, headaches, nausea and distractibility.
To quote a devoted and caring teacher: “Sometimes we treat puppies better than our school kids.”
LESLIE LOPATA
Encino
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
