Heat cancels classes again at area schools

TUSCARAWAS CO. (WJER) (Aug. 30, 2024) – Some students are getting an even longer Labor Day weekend away from school because of extreme heat in the buildings.

There are no classes districtwide today at New Philadelphia and Garaway.  Dover elementary and middle school students also have the day off, though the high school is in session because it is air conditioned.

It is the second time this week Dover and New Philadelphia have had to do this.

Dover Superintendent Karie McCrate was telling WJER that administrators only take this action when necessary.

“We want students in school, that’s always the goal,” McCrate said. “Their health, their safety is our top priority though.”

McCrate says before this week, it’s been four or five years since the district last canceled classes due to heat. But she says they can’t leave the classroom doors open to cool them down while students are there, for safety reasons.

McCrate says the district also watches out for kids involved in the sporting events that are still held outdoors in this weather.

“We take special precautions in terms of water breaks, in terms of rest periods,” she said. “Our coaches, athletic department, our athletic trainers, our medical staff – they pay close attention to that and also really prioritize student safety.”

West Holmes kindergarten through 8^th grade students are also home today because of the heat.  West Holmes high schoolers though do have class.

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