AC problems, heat prompt early pickups at multiple Wake County schools
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Several Wake County schools allowed parents to pick up their children early Wednesday as malfunctioning cooling systems and a dangerous heat advisory pushed classroom temperatures into the 80s.
Fuller Magnet Elementary School was among five campuses experiencing chiller problems as the heat index climbed into the triple digits. Parents said classrooms were too warm for students to comfortably learn.
"It's 97 degrees outside," one Fuller parent said. "With their classrooms being at 80-plus, I just had to come get (my son)."
The Wake County Public School System confirmed that Fuller Magnet Elementary, Wildwood Forest Elementary, Wake Forest Elementary, East Wake Magnet High and Green Level High all notified families about cooling issues either Tuesday or Wednesday. In some cases, only parts of the buildings were affected. In others, entire campuses were warmer than usual.
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Parents said schools communicated early in the day and gave families the option to check students out.
"They communicated there is some issue with the HVAC and they asked us if we want, we can pick up the kids," a parent said.
Some classrooms attempted workarounds by turning off lights, encouraging students to stay hydrated and keeping them indoors. One student said his class made paper fans to stay cool.
"We didn't go outside," he said. "And it was still hot in our classroom."
A former school nurse said high temperatures can affect student health and learning.
"These schools need to be cooled so kids can learn properly," she said. "If you're hot and can't think ... kids passing out because it's extremely hot at the schools and in the classrooms."
WCPSS has dealt with chiller failures for years. The district recently hired a new facilities director who will be tasked with addressing the aging systems. School administrators urged families to send students in breathable clothing with refillable water bottles as high temperatures continue.
Parents said they are prepared to adjust as needed.
"I guess we'll just see how it goes," one parent said.
Her son, however, had a simpler plan if the heat persists. "If it gets so hot, I know I'm getting in the pool," he said.
