ST. LOUIS, MO— School is back in session for thousands of area children this week, and it comes as temperatures are expected to be in the triple digits.
The St Louis Public Schools (SLPS) started its first day with a power outage at Bush Middle School due to a transformer issue. The district said it is transporting all students to nearby Nottingham High School until the end of the day.
“It’s unfortunate that it happened on the first day of school, but everyone has been planning for an excellent transition today and I do believe it’s been an excellent start of school,” Scarlett said. “And excellent doesn’t mean perfect.”
When it comes to transportation, SLPS and the Missouri Central Bus Company are working to make sure students and staff are both comfortable and safe as school gets underway.
SLPS is encouraging students riding buses to and from school to dress for what could be some very hot rides.
“That’s one of the biggest changes I think, for me, just how weather impacts infrastructure here,” SLPS Superintendent Dr. Keisha Scarlett said. “That wasn’t exactly what we experienced in Seattle and so working with our local partners like Ameren and making sure that we have the response team and the relationship in place for that.”
Missouri Central School Bus Company (MCSB) has advised SLPS that they will take the following actions for the safety of both students and drivers:
- MSCB is encouraging students to bring water bottles on the bus each day for hydration.
- Drivers are being instructed to pay careful attention to any signs of heat-related distress.
- All available bus monitors will be on routes this week.
- Coolers of water and ice-containing microfiber towels will be on all emergency/safety vehicles.
Anyone who has the ability to transport their child to or from school might want to consider that option on the hottest days.
SLPS leadership says it will have the following plans in place for its buildings and will adjust it if needed. Here are the steps it’s taking to ensure safety:
- Air conditioning began running 24/7 over the weekend make sure all buildings are pre-cooled.
- Outdoor activities at all schools will be limited throughout the week.
- Athletic events and practices will be impacted, with some being rescheduled to early mornings or late evenings. Watch for information from school athletic directors.
- Extra bottled water is being brought into all SLPS buildings.
The Francis Howell School District in St. Charles County says all of its schools have air conditioning. A few buildings are having some isolated issues with the cooling systems, but the facilities staff is addressing those issues, according to the district.
Recess will be limited to 10 minutes if temperatures or the heat index are between 95 to 100 degrees. If the temperatures or heat index is above 101, there is no outdoor recess.
The district also points out that afternoon bus routes will be warmer than normal. Students will be encouraged to refill their water bottles prior to dismissal. Bottled water will also be available for those who need it.
Area schools will also follow the MSHSA heat guidelines for practices and games. Find out the formula districts use to determine if students can practice or play safely in the heat.
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