Midwestern schools face disruptions due to extreme heat

Extreme heat conditions have prompted significant disruptions to school operations in major Midwestern cities.

In Chicago, Chicago Public Schools (CPS) canceled all outdoor activities, including recess, physical education, and athletics, for students. The district implemented a heat action plan following a National Weather Service heat advisory, which includes ensuring hydration, monitoring students on specific medications, and managing classroom temperatures by closing shades and utilizing air conditioning.

In Milwaukee, Milwaukee Public Schools announced a full closure of all schools and the cancellation of before- and after-school activities. The decision followed guidance from the Milwaukee Health Department as temperatures were forecast to reach near 89 degrees. The district, which serves approximately 64,500 students, faces challenges with inconsistent air conditioning access, as only about 56 percent of its schools offer full or partial cooling.