This time of extreme heat is the perfect reminder of how necessary it is for the Valhalla school district to take action for the health and safety of our kids and teachers. Our children spending the majority of their school day in uncooled spaces is NOT acceptable in times of extreme heat. Other school districts in the Westchester area have air-conditioned classrooms and Valhalla should prioritize joining them immediately.  

It has been communicated that the district is discussing a permanent solution to be presented in 2026, with an unknown completion date. The superintendent indicated that in the short term, cooling units may be installed in the areas of greatest need. We do not agree that our children should be expected to learn in extreme heat for one or two additional years. We believe that every classroom should have cooling units beginning this September. 

A portable air conditioner can be purchased for less than $400, which can be put in individual classrooms.  Costs for electrical upgrades are also to be expected. This is certainly money well spent, as is any money for our children's health.  And of course, this would not just be on these extremely hot days - there are plenty of hot days in May, June, and September where classrooms would be much safer and conducive to learning with air conditioning.

Please join us in indicating to the Valhalla school district that we need them to further prioritize cooling our schools in a timely manner.