Principal Janet Hibbs said that when it's hot even going outdoors at recess can be unbearable. Just sit under a tree and visit with each other. Hibbs said the heat makes it hard for children to concentrate, especially when it comes at the beginning of the year when things are already topsy-turvy. At Morton Elementary, ceiling fans help cool rooms. But classrooms on the second floor tend to get pretty warm at times.
Some students carry water bottles they've frozen overnight for a cool drink all day long.
Nelson said teachers give students a few more breaks, too. The short hot weather schedule works out well at Morton, he said. Since it comes at the start of the school year, the shorter classes help students ease into the long day at school. One solution to avoiding the heat while maintaining a regular schedule is to start the school year later in the season. Anderson said the idea has been considered in past years and will continue to be debated.