When I send my son to school, I am entrusting his safety to a system designed to improve his future. However, my son has asthma and the sweltering heat of non-air-conditioned classrooms has turned that space for learning into a health risk. This is my heartfelt plea to every parent, teacher, advocate, and policy maker in Sodus, New York, USA who shares my concern: Demand that schools provide air conditioning in all classrooms.

Climate change is producing hotter summers here in Sodus, and our schools need to adapt accordingly. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, excessive heat can exacerbate respiratory issues, such as asthma, which affects nearly 1 in 10 children in New York (source: New York State Department of Health). No child should have to struggle to breathe, be it in their own homes or within the hallways at school.

Air conditioning is not merely a question of comfort but an issue of health and safety, especially for students like my son who has asthma, as well as those who are particularly susceptible to the heat. Imagine trying to focus on learning while battling discomfort and health distresses. Our children deserve better. They have a right to a safe and comfortable educational environment.

We call upon the New York State Department of Education and local school boards to mandate air conditioning in all school classrooms. By doing so, we ensure that our educational institutions are not only conducive to learning but also safeguarding the health of our students. It is our responsibility to put the children's health and well-being first. Please sign this petition to demand that our students' health and comfort be made a priority in all schools.