Quebec, Canada – As temperatures continue to rise, many students and teachers in Quebec are struggling to stay cool in their classrooms. According to a recent report, only a small percentage of schools in the province have air-conditioned classrooms, leaving many to suffer in the heat.
The report, conducted by the Quebec Federation of School Boards, found that out of the 3,000 schools in the province, only 10% have air conditioning. This means that the majority of students and teachers are left to endure the sweltering heat without any relief.
The lack of air conditioning in schools has been a long-standing issue in Quebec. Many schools were built decades ago and were not equipped with air conditioning systems. As a result, students and teachers are forced to rely on fans and open windows to try and stay cool.
This issue has become even more pressing in recent years as temperatures in Quebec continue to rise due to climate change. In the summer months, temperatures can reach well over 30 degrees Celsius, making it difficult for students and teachers to focus and learn in such uncomfortable conditions.
The lack of air conditioning also poses a health risk, especially for students with respiratory issues or allergies. The hot and humid classrooms can exacerbate these conditions, making it difficult for students to attend school and learn.
Some schools have taken matters into their own hands and have installed air conditioning units in a few classrooms. However, this is not a feasible solution for all schools, as it can be costly and not all buildings are equipped to handle the installation of air conditioning.
The Quebec government has acknowledged this issue and has promised to invest $1.5 billion over the next five years to improve school infrastructure, including the installation of air conditioning in schools. However, this solution may not come soon enough for students and teachers who are currently struggling in the heat.
In the meantime, many are calling on the government to take immediate action and provide temporary solutions, such as portable air conditioning units, to schools that are currently without air conditioning.
As the summer months approach, it is crucial for the government to address this issue and ensure that all students and teachers have a safe and comfortable learning environment. The well-being and education of our future generations should not be compromised due to the lack of air conditioning in schools.