Ohio Schools Prompt Early Dismissals Amid Extreme Heatwave
In an unprecedented move, the Oak Hills School District in Cincinnati, Ohio, has announced early dismissals for dozens of its schools due to an extreme heatwave and inadequate air conditioning facilities.
Heatwave leads to early dismissals
The Oak Hills School District revealed on Tuesday that students from Oak Hills High School, Delhi Middle School, and Bridgetown Middle School would be dismissed two hours early from Wednesday through Friday. Specifically, Oak Hills High School will release students at 12:48 pm, while Delhi and Bridgetown Middle Schools will dismiss students at 12:30 pm.
This decision follows a heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service for parts of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky, with temperatures in Ohio nearing triple digits. The advisory is expected to remain in effect until 8:00 pm ET on Wednesday.
Finneytown and Lockland schools were also affected
Similarly affected, Finneytown’s Secondary Campus, accommodating students in grades 7–12, will dismiss at 12:50 pm due to a lack of air conditioning. However, Finneytown Elementary will continue regular hours as it is equipped with air conditioning.
Lockland Schools have also decided to close their main campus for the rest of the week due to the extreme heat. The district emphasized, “This decision was not made lightly, but as always the health and safety of our students and staff is of paramount concern.”
In light of the heatwave, the Oak Hills School District has assured parents that staff will modify outdoor activities to ensure the safety and comfort of the children.
Impact on sports and extracurricular activities
The extreme heat has also led to changes in outdoor competitions and student-athlete sports programs. The Lakota West and Hamilton football game has been postponed by an hour, and several practices are being delayed or canceled.
As temperatures soar, the Oak Hills School District and others continue to prioritize the health and safety of their students and staff, making necessary adjustments to their schedules and activities.