At Riverside Elementary, we, the students, are frequently forced to withstand chilling temperatures of 20-30 degrees, spending about 45 minutes or sometimes longer outdoors. This practice is not only uncomfortable but is now causing an alarming increase in illness among us. The Horry County School policy clearly states that students should be allowed indoors when temperatures plunge below 42 degrees. Yet, this policy is consistently overlooked at our school. Enduring these freezing temperatures is putting our health and educational engagement at risk.

Recent data shows that prolonged exposure to such weather can weaken the immune system, making students susceptible to diseases such as the common cold and flu. More so, discomfort creates distraction, consequently hindering our academic performance.

We urge the school administration to take our plight seriously and implement measures that adhere to the district rules regarding temperature thresholds. We ask that appropriate indoor spaces are designated for us during these harsh weather periods. This small adjustment could drastically improve our wellbeing and education experience at Riverside Elementary. Please, sign this petition to ensure we have a safe and warm environment conducive for our learning.